Mobile network

A mobile network is a wireless communication system that manages the transmission of voice calls and data between devices and their users. On this page, we’ll explain how communication via a mobile network works, which networks are available in New Zealand, and the differences between the various technologies.

What is a mobile network?

In essence, a mobile network consists of three different parts that work together: your device, a cell site and a core network (the exchange). When you make a phone call, your mobile connects to a cell site, which in turn contacts the core network. The network then connects your number with the person you are calling.

The SIM card or eSIM you receive when you sign up for a pay monthly plan, prepaid plan, or a data only SIM determines which network your device can access. The SIM or eSIM acts as a link between you and your provider. It contains information about which services are included in your plan, as well as your mobile number.

Do all providers have their own network?

No, not all providers own their own infrastructure. In New Zealand, there are three primary network owners: Spark, One NZ, and 2degrees. Smaller providers, known as MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network Operators), wholesale access from one of these three.

Providers that share networks (Examples)

The differences between 4G and 5G

By 2026, New Zealand has fully transitioned away from older “legacy” networks. We now rely on two main generations of technology: 4G and 5G.

4G (LTE)

4G, or LTE (Long Term Evolution), remains the backbone of mobile communication across much of NZ. By using multiple frequency bands, the 4G network offers reliable coverage and solid speeds for browsing and streaming. 4G is significantly faster than the old 3G technology, with real-world speeds often reaching 100 Mbps in urban areas.

5G

The latest generation is 5G, which is vastly superior to its predecessors in speed, response times (latency), and capacity. 5G uses higher frequency bands to provide fibre-like speeds over the air. Response times are as low as just a few milliseconds, making it perfect for online gaming and high-definition video. While theoretical top speeds reach 10 Gbps, average real-world speeds in NZ cities are typically between 250 Mbps and 1 Gbps.

By 2026, 5G Standalone has become the standard across major centres like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. Unlike earlier versions, 5G SA doesn’t rely on 4G infrastructure, resulting in even faster “ping” times and improved battery life for your device.

How does satellite technology complement mobile network coverage?

While traditional mobile networks rely on ground-based towers, New Zealand’s rugged geography means that “black spots” in remote areas have historically been a challenge.

By 2026, satellite-to-mobile technology has been fully integrated to complement these networks. Most modern smartphones can now connect directly to low-earth orbit satellites when you are outside the range of a standard cell tower. This provides a crucial backup for text messaging and emergency calls in remote areas like national parks, the Southern Alps, or isolated coastlines, even when there is no traditional signal.

What should you do if you experience network disruptions?

If you can’t connect or your data is slower than usual, there may be a service outage. All major Kiwi providers have service status pages on their websites. You can enter your suburb, postcode, or region to check for unplanned disruptions or scheduled maintenance in your area.

If there are no reported outages, check your device settings. If you’re still having trouble, it’s time to contact your provider’s support team for a “tech refresh” or further guidance.

The 2G and 3G shutdown

2G networks have now been fully decommissioned across all NZ providers, and 3G networks were fully shut down by late 2025.

Why were these networks phased out?

• Spectrum refarming: Providers wanted to re-use the radio frequencies from 3G to make 4G and 5G faster and more reliable.
• Efficiency: Modern 4G and 5G networks are significantly more energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable.
• Performance: Older technology simply couldn’t keep up with the data demands of modern apps and high-quality video streaming.

What does the 3G shutdown mean for me? 

Because 3G is now a thing of the past, you must use a device that supports 4G at a minimum. Specifically, your device must support 4G calling, also called VoLTE (Voice over LTE), to make and receive phone calls. If you have a very old mobile or an old wireless broadband router, you will need to upgrade to a 4G or 5G compatible model.

Please note! With the older networks gone, having a VoLTE-capable device is also essential for receiving “emergency mobile alerts”. These are the life-saving alerts sent by the government to your phone during natural disasters like floods or tsunamis. If your phone isn’t 4G-capable, you might not receive these warnings.

How to set up network type on iPhone

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Mobile > Mobile Data Options > Voice & Data.
3. Select 5G Auto or 4G.
4. Ensure VoLTE is toggled on (if the option is visible) to ensure high-quality calls.

How to set up network type on Android

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Connections (or Network & Internet) > Mobile networks (or SIMs) > Preferred network type.
3. Choose 5G (recommended) or 4G/LTE. 

Note that menu names may vary slightly between Android brands like Samsung, Google Pixel, or OPPO, but the steps are generally the same.

Choose preferred network on a mobile/wireless router

To switch a wireless broadband router to the 4G or 5G network, you usually just need to perform a factory reset or log into the router’s web interface. Most modern New Zealand mobile routers will automatically “handshake” with the fastest available network once a compatible SIM is inserted. If you have trouble, check your provider’s online support page for your specific model.