From the end of 2025, NZ will be shutting down 3G networks. It’s part of a global upgrade to 4G and 5G technology, to deliver a more reliable experience for users, and to future-proof mobile connectivity.
If you’re using a device that may not be fully compatible with the 4G and 5G network, you’ll need to upgrade before the 3G shutdown to stay connected.
Free text ‘3G’ to 550 to check if you’re ready
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the 3G network being shutdown?
Why is the 3G network being shutdown?
Out with the old, in with the new! NZ’s network providers need to make room for 4G and 5G networks, which is more power efficient, and has better coverage, reliability and faster data speeds.
When will the 3G network be shutdown?
When will the 3G network be shutdown?
Rocket Mobile is powered by One NZ’s network. One NZ is planning to shut down their 3G network by 31 December 2025, which affects all Rocket Mobile customers.
What happens if I am still using a 3G device?
What happens if I am still using a 3G device?
If you’re still using a 3G device after the shutdown date, you will no longer be able to make or receive calls, send texts, or use mobile data. This includes emergency calls. To stay connected, you’ll need to upgrade to a compatible 4G or 5G-ready device.
What about 4G devices? How do I enable VoLTE?
What about 4G devices? How do I enable VoLTE?
Most 4G phones will work fine, but you may need to ensure you’ve downloaded and installed the latest device updates and enable 4G/5G data and voice calling (i.e. VoLTE) in your device settings.
Some older 4G phones may not have VoLTE calling. If so, you will need to upgrade your device to one that is.
We also recommend you enable WiFi calling or VoWiFi in your settings, which uses WiFi to help make phone calls.
What is VoLTE? How do I enable it?
What is VoLTE? How do I enable it?
VoLTE is short for ‘Voice over LTE’, part of mobile high-speed wireless communication standards.
VoLTE technology is a core part of the 5G standard, and voice calling will continue to be provided over 4G using VoLTE.
Apple (iOS)
– Go to Settings
– Tap Mobile
– Tap Mobile Data Options
– Enable 4G Voice and Data
Android
– Go to Settings
– Tap Wireless and Networks / Connections
– Tap Mobile Networks
– Enable VoLTE calls
Please note: Samsung and Huawei smartphones will have VoLTE turned on by default when you are in a 4G network area. At such times, you will not find a VoLTE toggle in the settings menu of your smartphone.
What happens if I don't upgrade my device?
What happens if I don't upgrade my device?
Once the 3G network is shut down, your device will no longer work on the mobile network – not just ours but all NZ mobile providers, as all 3G networks are being shut down between the end of 2025 and March 2026.
How do I check if my device will work after the 3G shutdown?
How do I check if my device will work after the 3G shutdown?
Free text ‘3G’ to 550 to check if your device is compatible with the new networks. The reply will come from One NZ as they are our network partner.
* NOTE: the reply may say ‘visit us in store’, but this is the default text provided by One NZ to all network partners and refers to One NZ stores.
Rocket Mobile doesn’t have stores, so we can save money and pass the savings onto you. If you need more help, please contact us on Live Chat instead (the little pink circle with the speech bubble in the bottom right corner of this window).
I need to upgrade my device. Do you sell devices?
I need to upgrade my device. Do you sell devices?
Unfortunately we don’t sell devices. If you do need to upgrade, make sure you do the maths and don’t get sucked into a device deal that may actually work out costing more than staying with a better value mobile plan and buying the device separately outright.
Remember, you don’t necessarily need the latest and greatest to stay connected.
I have more questions
I have more questions
Visit 3Gshutdown.co.nz or digitalequity.nz/3g-shutdown for more details. You can also reach out to us on Live Chat if you still have any other questions.