One New Zealand has announced it will align its 2G and 3G switch-off dates for the end of next year.
The carrier, formerly Vodafone NZ, confirmed today (October 25) that it will move its 3G switch-off date from March 31, 2025, to December 31, 2025, which is the same day it waves goodbye to its 2G network.
The telco had been set to shut down its 3G network by the end of August, but delayed the switch-off in April of this year.
Other domestic telcos Spark and 2degrees also have plans to retire the network next year.
“Over the past couple of years, our network team has been hard at work rolling out 4G and 5G networks in New Zealand. Over the past 24 months we’ve built over 300 new sites and upgraded 600 sites to create a faster, more reliable, and intelligent network fit for the future," said Thaigan Govender, GM mobile network, One New Zealand.
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“While waiting untill the end of 2025 will give customers a little more time to upgrade their old phones and devices, the message is clear, it is past time to upgrade.”
The carrier said that its 2G and 3G spectrum will be repurposed for its 4G and 5G networks across the country, in particular in rural areas.
Govender also noted that the switch off of 2G and 3G services will enable the carrier to reduce its carbon emissions and push forward with more energy-efficient networks.
One New Zealand also issued a warning to its customers about Australia's imminent 3G shutdown.
