Our mobile network is changing. Spark will close its 3G network on 31 March 2026, which means only 4G and 5G capable devices will be able to connect to the Spark network.
Goodbye 3G, hello tomorrow
Spark’s 3G network will close on 31 March 2026. This is a necessary step to enhance our 4G and 5G networks, ensuring a faster, more reliable experience for you and your customers. Are your customers ready for the 3G shutdown?
Why it matters
Every device has different capabilities, but from 31 March 2026, any device still relying on 3G will either stop working entirely or experience significant limitations, including:
Traveling overseas?
Many of our international roaming partners have already shut down their 3G networks. If your customers are traveling, it's important they check their device compatibility before they travel. Visit Spark's Roaming website for the latest international roaming updates.
Device checker
To quickly check individual mobile devices, text '3G' to 550 (free of charge) to find out if a mobile is 4G ready - or use the online Device Checker site. The device checker helps determine if your phone can connect to and make calls over the 4G network. However, if a phone was purchased overseas, is a parallel import, refurbished, or you're unsure of its origins, the results may not be reliable, as we are unable to determine its exact specs and compatibility to our 4G network.
We've captured frequently asked questions and info from Spark NZ and Spark IoT here:
