Final Call: Thousands urged to check phones before mobile 3G network disconnection

Mobile providers across Aotearoa New Zealand, including One NZ and Spark, are shutting down their 3G networks as the technology becomes outdated and is replaced by faster 4G and 5G services.

Spark is set to switch off its 3G network on 31 March 2026, ending a service that has been operating for 17 years and was the first to bring internet access to mobile phones.

Once the network is switched off, any device that relies on 3G will no longer be able to send texts, use mobile data, receive calls or contact emergency services. While most New Zealanders have already moved to newer networks, Spark says two per cent of devices on its network are still affected.

This includes older smartphones, early tablets, and some refurbished or imported handsets. Speaking with William Terite on Pacific Mornings, Martin La’a, Spark’s 3G Exit Programme Lead, says the change is needed to keep New Zealand connected to modern technology.

“We want to ensure that our customers continue to have access to the latest technology and that the quality of mobile internet here in Aotearoa is on par with global standards,” La’a says.

“In fact, many global [Internet Service Providers] have already shut down their 3G networks. It’s important to note as well that this is happening across all providers too.”

Spark data shows 3G use continues to decline, with data usage on Christmas Day down 58 per cent compared with the previous year. So far, the company has sent over 1.2 million notifications by text, email, and letter, with its support team helping more than 7000 people.

The shutdown also affects devices beyond personal mobile phones. Nationally, more than 100,000 devices including traffic lights, vehicle tracking systems, EFTPOS machines, and parking meters may need hardware upgrades to continue operating on 4G networks.

Business owners are being advised that 4G and 3G coverage can differ, and older antennas or power supplies might not support newer modems. To prepare for the 31 March deadline, people are encouraged to check their handsets now by texting ‘3G’ to the number 550.

To avoid being disconnected when the network switches off on 31 March, people are being encouraged to check their phones now by sending a free text with the word ‘3G’ to 550. Photo/Unsplash

The free service is available across all New Zealand mobile providers and will confirm whether a device is impacted. La’a says that even if a phone shows a 4G symbol for data and SMS, it may still rely on 3G for voice calls.

Spark has also partnered with the Digital Equity Coalition Aotearoa to assist vulnerable communities during the transition, sharing information through churches, food banks, and budgeting services - spaces that are often central to Pacific families. From this month, users with impacted devices will hear a recorded message before each outgoing call, reminding them to upgrade.

For those who need a new device, Spark is offering mobile handsets from $49, or from $1 per month on selected interest-free plans. Customers are also urged to recycle their old 3G devices rather than passing them on to others.

Watch Martin La’a’s full interview below.

La’a urged people to look out for family members who may be more vulnerable. “For our Pasifika communities, supporting our aiga [family], particularly our elders as part of who we are. So my encouragement is that firstly check for your own device, but also support those and check on those in your aiga who may be more vulnerable, [like] your parents, your grandparents or your neighbours.”

More information, including a 3G shutdown checklist, is available on M2M’s website.