4G calling

4G calling (also called VoLTE) means your phone uses the 4G network to make and receive calls. Historically, mobile calls relied on 2G and 3G networks, but these have now been fully decommissioned across New Zealand to make room for faster, more reliable 4G and 5G services. The benefits of 4G calling include crystal-clear voice quality, faster connection times, and the ability to use your mobile data at 4G or 5G speeds while you’re mid-call. On this page, we’ll explain how 4G calling works, what you need to get it, and how to ensure your device is ready to go.

How does 4G calling work?

The technology behind 4G calling is essentially VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), often referred to by providers as VoLTE (Voice over LTE). It converts your voice into data packets, allowing calls to travel over 4G and 5G networks.

By 2026, many New Zealanders are also using VoNR (Voice over New Radio), which is the 5G equivalent of 4G calling. This allows for even lower latency and better integration with ultra-fast 5G data services.

Previously, New Zealand mobiles would automatically drop down to 3G for phone calls. However, with the total shutdown of 3G networks in New Zealand, 4G calling is now the standard requirement for almost all mobile users to stay connected.

Info! With 4G calling, you don’t have to hang up to look something up online. You can use high-speed data for maps or browsing and talk at the same time. While it’s called 4G calling, it works seamlessly on both 4G and 5G. If your phone is on 5G but doesn’t yet support 5G Standalone (5G SA) for voice, it will simply use 4G calling to handle the conversation.

4G calling was developed to take advantage of modern, powerful networks, providing better coverage and HD audio quality. For New Zealand mobile providers, it is also much more efficient to run all services on modern infrastructure. Now that 3G has been fully switched off nationwide, 4G Calling is no longer an optional “extra” – it’s a necessity for making any calls at all.

How do SMS and MMS work with 4G calling?

Texting has also evolved. SMS and MMS messages now travel over the same ‘IMS’ (IP Multimedia Subsystem) layer as your 4G/5G calls. This ensures your texts are delivered much faster than they were on old 3G technology.

The benefits of 4G calling

• Your phone connects calls almost the moment you hit dial.
• Enjoy “HD Voice” quality with significantly less background hiss or noise.
• You can use your data for navigation or checking emails while you’re talking.
• It enables Wi-Fi calling, which is great for staying connected in rural areas or homes with thick walls where indoor reception can be patchy.

What do you need for 4G calling to work?

To use 4G calling, you need a mobile plan – whether it’s a pay monthly or a prepaid plan – and a compatible handset. By 2026, almost every plan offered by major New Zealand providers includes 4G calling as a standard feature.

Most modern smartphones support 4G calling. However, keep in mind that New Zealand providers often have specific settings tailored for their own networks. While phones bought directly from local retailers will work perfectly, some parallel-imported devices (grey market) might have compatibility issues. It’s always a good idea to check your provider’s website for a list of supported devices.

Please note! To call 111 in New Zealand, your phone must now be VoLTE-capable. Many older 4G devices still relied on the 3G network for emergency calls, which is no longer an option. If your handset is more than five years old, check with your provider to ensure it is “VoLTE Emergency” compliant so you can always reach help when it matters most.

Do both iPhone and Android support 4G calling?

Yes. Most iPhones (iPhone 8 and all subsequent models, including the latest iPhone 17 series) and the vast majority of modern Android devices support 4G calling.

If you’re using an older Android model (such as an older Samsung, Google Pixel, or Oppo) and aren’t sure if it’s compatible, we recommend checking your settings or contacting your provider. It’s also vital to ensure your phone is running the latest software update so that your network settings are up to date.

How to enable 4G calling on your device

In 2026, 4G calling is enabled by default on almost every smartphone in New Zealand. Because 3G networks have been decommissioned, your phone must use 4G or 5G (VoLTE/VoNR) to function. In many cases, the “toggle” to turn it on may have disappeared from your settings – this is normal, as it’s now a core requirement for the phone to work on NZ networks.

How to find 4G calling settings on your device

If you can’t find these settings and your calls aren’t working, try a Reset Network Settings in your phone’s General/System menu. This forces the phone to download the latest New Zealand carrier profile.

Check your IMEI 

If you’re unsure if your phone is compatible, most NZ providers offer an “IMEI Checker” on their website. Just dial *#06# on your phone to find your ID number and plug it into their tool.

Will 4G calling use up my data allowance?

No. Even though the call travels over the data network, it is billed as a standard voice call (or deducted from your plan’s minute allowance). It will not eat into your monthly gigabyte (GB) data limit.