TCF Launches Factsheets In 10 Alternate Languages To Support Upcoming 3G Shutdown

Today the Telecommunications Forum and mobile operators have launched a series of new factsheets in a range of languages to help support a wider range of Kiwis in preparation for the 3G shutdown.

With the first shutdown less than three months away, the updated 3G resource toolkit is aimed at providing accessible information and support resources for our most vulnerable communities, says TCF chief executive Paul Brislen.

“Most Kiwis are aware of the shutdown, but we want to make sure the details around what customers need to do are freely available and accessible.”

This information is now available in te reo Māori and New Zealand Sign Language as well as Samoan, Tongan, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Hindi, Arabic and Spanish. A visual guide for ‘how to check’ your device is also included, along with instructions for changing your mobile phone settings.

“If you need help in person, you can visit your provider’s store or call their support team. Mobile operators have teams of knowledgeable staff ready and waiting to assist with technical updates and affordable device options for customers who may need extra assistance. But the first step is ensuring everyone knows whether they need to take any action,” says Brislen.

Non-phone devices

It’s not just consumers using mobile phones, but also those customers or businesses using other devices reliant on 3G networks who are being reminded to check their devices. These devices include tablets, medical alarms, security alarms and business equipment i.e. vehicle trackers and other connected IoT devices. It also includes any devices still using the 2G network which is also being shut down by One NZ from the 31st December.

"Vendors have been working through an upgrade programme directly with mobile operators, to ensure key devices such as medical alarms have been upgraded in time to ensure vulnerable consumers remain connected in case of an emergency,” says Brislen.

Recycling old devices

If you are replacing your mobile phone, make sure you recycle your old device through New Zealand’s RE:MOBILE mobile phone recycling programme. You can bring in any phone to over 500 locations, including any Noel Leeming or Resene paint stores, and at all 2degrees, One NZ and Spark retail stores (regardless of which provider you’re with). For more details, visit www.remobile.org.nz.

For more information about the shutdown, FAQs and support resources visit www.3Gshutdown.co.nz or reach out to your provider today for help with the transition.

Notes:

From the end of 2025 New Zealand’s mobile operators (2degrees, One NZ and Spark) will shut down their 3G networks. This will continue into early 2026 with individual operator dates varying. This is part of a global upgrade to 4G and 5G technology, to deliver a more reliable experience for consumers and future-proof connectivity.

It is important to check your phone and other devices now to ensure you stay connected into the future. If your phone still relies on 3G for calling, you will not be able to make calls or send texts, including 111 emergency calls after the shutdown. Free-text 550 with the message ‘3G’ today to check your mobile device today and make sure you stay connected into the future.

About the TCF

The NZ Telecommunications Forum (TCF) was established in 2002. It plays a vital role in the telecommunications industry in New Zealand, collaboratively developing key industry standards and codes of practice that underpin the country’s digital economy.

TCF Members include: 2degrees, AWACS, Chorus, Connexa, Devoli, Enable Networks, FortySouth, Kordia, Lightwire, Mercury, Northpower Fibre, NOW, One NZ, Spark, Symbio Networks, Tuatahi First Fibre, Vector Fibre. WISPA-NZ, which represents 28 Wireless Internet Service Providers and Hourua Limited are also Associate Members of TCF.

For more information visit: http://www.tcf.org.nz

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