5g ready mobile plans
Showing 111 plans.
Every time you auto renew your $5 plan we’ll give you a bonus 500 skinny mins and 500 skinny texts! new customers only.
Join & get 7.5gb of free carryover data**
Free data hour*** until 18 jan 2026
Join kiwi mobile today and get 3 months half price
Endless data* this tier shows 1gb of max speed data then endless data at reduced speeds, or level up to higher data tiers up to 4gb max speed each month
One nz rewards
Bous data with dataup*
Join kiwi mobile today and get 3 months half price
Endless data* this tier shows 1.5gb of max speed data then endless data at reduced speeds, or level up to higher data tiers up to 4gb max speed each month
Join & get 7.5gb of free carryover data**
Free unlimited data for an hour every day
10gb of hotspot data*
Unlimited data at 2mbps
Join kiwi mobile today and get 3 months half price
Endless data* this tier shows 2gb of max speed data then endless data at reduced speeds, or level up to higher data tiers up to 4gb max speed each month
Fast 5g network speeds
Join & get 7.5gb of free carryover data**
Free unlimited data for an hour every day
Join kiwi mobile today and get 3 months half price
Endless data* this tier shows 3gb of max speed data then endless data at reduced speeds, or level up to higher data tiers up to 4gb max speed each month
Save 10% on spotify premium
Free double data + 1.5gb bonus data
1.5 gb nz data rollover
*3gb data at max speed for first 12 months, then 1.5gb. limited time offer
20gb of hotspot data*
Unlimited data at 10mbps
One nz rewards
Bous data with dataup*
10gb capped data
Join kiwi mobile today and get 3 months half price
Endless data* this tier shows 4gb of max speed data then endless data at reduced speeds, or level up to higher data tiers up to 4gb max speed each month
First 3 months free!**– save $57^
Unlimited texts and 250 minutes* nz & aus
Join & get 7.5gb of free carryover data**
Free unlimited data for an hour every day
Save $10 per month on skinny wireless broadband plans when you bundle with this mobile plan
40 gb data (max speed)
1.5 gb data (max speed)
Join kiwi mobile today and get 3 months half price
Endless data* this tier shows 5gb of max speed data then endless data at reduced speeds, or level up to higher data tiers up to unlimited max speed each month
Join & get 7.5gb of free carryover data**
Free unlimited data for an hour every day
Save 10% on spotify premium
Your data stack increases by 200mb every 28 days each time you renew your eligible spark prepaid value pack (within two weeks after expiry), up to a maximum of 3gb.
One nz rewards
Bous data with dataup*
Join kiwi mobile today and get 3 months half price
Endless data* this tier shows 10gb of max speed data then endless data at reduced speeds, or level up to higher data tiers up to unlimited max speed each month
Are you searching for the fastest mobile speeds? The fifth generation of mobile networks is transforming how New Zealanders connect, offering blistering speeds, ultra-low latency, and greater reliability. But getting 5G ready NZ requires more than just a fast network - it requires the right phone, the right SIM, and, most importantly, the right plan.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about comparing mobile options in New Zealand, focusing on the major choice: flexible 5G ready prepaid plans or feature-rich monthly contracts.
What Does '5G Ready' Truly Mean for New Zealanders?
The term "5G Ready" has three core requirements. You need the technology, the network, and the plan to align. Understanding what 5G means in the New Zealand context is the crucial first step in your comparison journey.
📡 The State of the Network: Is 5G Available in New Zealand?
Yes, absolutely. 5G is live and actively expanding across New Zealand. Major network providers have invested heavily in rolling out the service in central cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, as well as in a growing number of regional towns. The rollout is ongoing, meaning coverage is improving constantly, making it the perfect time to switch to a 5G ready plan.
🚀 5G vs. 4G: Why You Need the Upgrade
Is 5G really faster than 4G? The simple answer is yes, dramatically so. While 4G (LTE) was fantastic for mobile streaming and social media, 5G delivers a leap forward in three key areas:
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Speed: Experience median download speeds that can reach well over 300 Mbps in certain areas. This means downloading large files, applications, or even full movies can take seconds, not minutes.
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Latency (Responsiveness): 5G significantly reduces the delay (latency) between your device and the network. For gamers, this means near-instant reaction times. For video calls, it means fewer freezes and better clarity.
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Capacity: 5G networks can handle far more connected devices simultaneously. If you've ever struggled to load a webpage in a crowded stadium or mall, 5G’s high capacity will solve that frustration.
Your 5G Readiness Checklist: Device, SIM, and Coverage
Before choosing a plan, make sure your gear is set up to handle the speed.
📱 Ensuring You Have a 5G Ready Phone
How do I find out if my phone is 5g ready?
The quickest way is to check your phone's specifications online. Generally speaking, any flagship or modern mid-range smartphone released after 2020 is likely 5G ready.
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iPhones: iPhone 12 models and newer are 5G capable.
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Android: Most recent models from Samsung Galaxy (S21 series onwards), Google Pixel (6 series onwards), and other major manufacturers are 5G enabled.
Quick Check: If you are unsure, go to your phone’s settings:
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iPhone: Settings > Mobile Data > Mobile Data Options > Voice & Data. If you see an option for "5G Auto" or "5G On," your device is compatible.
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Android: Settings > Connections (or Network & Internet) > Mobile networks > Preferred network type. Look for "5G/4G/3G Auto."
💳 Choosing a 5G Ready SIM
The good news is that accessing 5G doesn't require complex new hardware. Most mobile providers in NZ supply a 5G ready SIM or an eSIM (electronic SIM) as standard with any new plan sign-up.
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If you are switching to a 5G plan with an old physical SIM that you’ve had for many years, it's a good idea to request a new SIM or switch to an eSIM to guarantee full compatibility and network features.
🗺️ Checking 5G Availability in Your Area
How do I check 5G availability in my area?
Even with a 5G ready phone and a 5G ready sim, you can only connect when you are within a coverage zone. The best way to check is to use the official coverage maps provided by the New Zealand network operators.
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Key Tip: Don't just check your home address. Check your place of work, the university campus, or the main travel routes you use frequently to ensure you get the benefit of 5G where you need it most.
In-Depth Comparison: Prepaid SIM vs. Monthly Contracts in NZ
When it comes to paying for your service, the decision between Prepaid and Monthly (often called Pay Monthly or Postpaid) largely depends on your usage habits, budget preference, and need for extra features. Both types of plans are 5G ready NZ.
|
Feature |
Prepaid SIM (Prepay) |
Monthly Contract (Pay Monthly/Postpaid) |
|
Payment |
Upfront (pay before you use) |
Monthly bill (pay after you use) |
|
Commitment |
None (roll-over) |
Typically open-term or 12/24 months (if bundled with a phone) |
|
Credit Check |
No |
Usually required |
|
Data Cost |
Higher cost per GB for large data users |
Lower cost per GB, better for heavy users |
|
Device Financing |
Generally not available |
Available (interest-free options common) |
|
Best For |
Budget control, low-to-moderate data users, short-term use |
Heavy data users, families, users who want a new phone |
💰 Prepaid Plans: Flexibility and Control (5g ready prepaid)
Choosing a 5G ready prepaid plan is perfect if you value control and flexibility above all else.
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Budget Certainty: You pay a set amount for your bundle upfront, eliminating the risk of a surprise bill (bill shock). If you run out of data, you simply top up or buy an add-on.
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No Long-Term Contracts: Prepaid is ideal if you are testing the waters with a new provider, or if you are only in New Zealand for a short period.
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Rollover Data: Many 5G ready prepaid plans feature data rollover, allowing you to keep unused data for a set period (often up to a year) as long as you renew your plan on time. This is great for moderate users whose usage varies month-to-month.
💼 Monthly (Postpaid) Contracts: Value, Convenience, and Extras
Monthly contracts are typically the preferred choice for heavy data users, families, and those looking to acquire a new device.
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Device Financing: Monthly plans often include options for interest-free repayment on a new 5G ready phone, allowing you to spread the cost over 12, 24, or 36 months.
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Group and Bundle Discounts: If you have multiple services (broadband, electricity/power) or multiple family members, monthly plans often unlock significant discounts or shared data options that reduce the cost per person.
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Premium Features: Monthly plans frequently include generous extras, such as unlimited international calling/texting to popular destinations (like Australia), more extensive international roaming options, or exclusive rewards programs.
Decoding Mobile Plan Deals: The Path to the Best Value
The mobile market in NZ is highly competitive, which is great news for consumers! But you need to know how to cut through the marketing noise to find the real value.
📈 Understanding Data Speeds: "Endless" vs. "Max Speed"
When comparing unlimited plans, look closely at the fine print on speed:
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Max Speed: This means you access the fastest available speed the network can provide, which is where you will see the true high speeds of 5G. This is best for high-definition streaming, cloud-based work, and serious online gaming.
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Endless (Throttled) Data: Many plans offer a set amount of Max Speed data (e.g., 40GB or 80GB. Once you hit this cap, your data is "endless," but the speed is reduced (often to 1.2 Mbps). This reduced speed is usually fine for email, basic browsing, and low-resolution streaming but not for high-quality 5G ready tasks.
✨ Key Features to Look For Beyond Data
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Hotspotting/Tethering: If you plan to use your mobile connection to power your laptop or tablet, check the plan's hotspot allowance. Some plans offer unlimited tethering, while others have a hard cap.
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Bundled Discounts: Look for providers that offer bundled discounts for combining your mobile plan with your home broadband or even energy services. These can often be the source of your biggest savings.
🎁 Hunting for Promotions: The Myth of "Free 5G Ready NZ"
While searching for "free 5g ready nz" might lead to some exciting deals, remember that the true cost of a plan usually involves a base monthly fee. Promotions generally come in the form of:
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Introductory Discounts: Half-price plans for the first three or six months.
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Sign-up Bonuses: A large chunk of bonus data when you bring your number across.
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Device Deals: Extremely low monthly payments on a 5G ready phone when paired with a specific high-value contract.
These deals dramatically lower your average monthly spend over the first year, making them essential to consider.
Mobile Plan FAQs
Q: Can I use a 5G phone that I bought overseas?
A: You can, but performance is not guaranteed. New Zealand networks use specific radio frequencies. For the best performance and compatibility, especially in rural areas or indoors, ensure your device supports the bands used by NZ mobile operators (primarily the 3500 MHz band, or Band 78).
Q: How much data will I use on 5G?
A: Because 5G makes high-resolution streaming (like 4K video) and faster downloads possible, you may use significantly more data without realizing it. If you plan to fully utilize 5G speeds, we highly recommend an unlimited data plan or one with a very high data allowance (50 GB or more).
Q: Is there any extra cost for 5G access?
A: Currently, 5G access is included in the base price of most in-market plans (both prepaid and monthly) offered by major NZ providers, especially those with high data allowances. You typically won't pay an extra fee just for the 5G service itself.
Q: What is an eSIM and do I need one?
A: An eSIM is an electronic SIM embedded directly into your phone, eliminating the need for a physical plastic card. It makes switching providers easier and is commonly used in modern devices to enable dual SIM functionality. While you don't need an eSIM to access 5G, it is a convenient, 5G ready option available from most NZ providers.
Choosing Your Plan and Making the Switch
Finding the right plan means matching the plan features to your life, whether you need the full speed of 5G for your commute or the budgeting control of a prepaid SIM.
🤔 How to Find the Ideal Mobile Plan for Your Usage
The best plan is always the one tailored to your specific needs. Ask yourself these three questions:
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How much data do I actually use? If it’s under 5GB, a 5G ready prepaid plan with rollover data is likely your cheapest option. If it's over 20GB or you want truly unlimited speed, a monthly contract is superior.
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Do I need a new 5G phone? If yes, a monthly plan with interest-free financing is the most convenient route.
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How important is budget control? If avoiding bill shock is your top priority, prepaid is the clear winner.
🔄 Switching Providers: Keeping Your Number and Activating Your New 5G Ready SIM
Switching is easy. You can keep your existing mobile number (a process called "porting") regardless of whether you move from prepaid to contract, or vice versa. Your new provider will handle the entire process. Once your new 5G ready SIM is activated, you'll be connected to the country's fastest network speeds.
✅ Ready to Compare?
To cut through the complexity of the New Zealand mobile market and compare dozens of options side-by-side based on data, speed, contract type, and price, head over to our free, independent comparison tool that will help you find the perfect 5G ready NZ plan in minutes.
Bookmark this page for the best information and advice about 5G ready sims and contracts.
Disclaimer: Pricing and offers subject to change. Always confirm current rates and terms with providers before signing up. Rankings based on publicly available data and may not reflect individual experiences.