3G Shutdown Community Impact Survey Report
Survey period: 30 June – 1 August 2025
Responses: 61 community organisations
Executive Summary
In June and July 2025, the Digital Equity Coalition Aotearoa (DECA) surveyed 61 community‑facing organisations to understand how the upcoming 3G mobile network shutdown will affect the people they support.
Responses came from across Aotearoa. The organisations work to support Māori, older people, lower‑income households, Pasifika communities, tamariki, rangatahi, rural whānau and other groups already facing digital exclusion.
Survey results show relatively high awareness but deep concern. 43% were very aware of the shutdown and 38% somewhat aware, yet 54% were extremely concerned that people will lose connectivity. Older people using basic phones, those facing financial barriers, medically dependent individuals, whānau with older/refurbished devices, and rural communities were identified as most at risk.
Key concerns include the financial cost of upgrading devices, lack of digital confidence, limited trustworthy information, potential loss of 111 emergency calling, and patchy rural coverage. Respondents urged decision‑makers to provide clear communication, financial assistance for device upgrades, digital skills support and invest in infrastructure to protect vulnerable communities during this transition
“Decision makers need to consider who is being most impacted and the inequity compounded by these actions.” – Respondent from Gisborne/Hawke’s Bay
Community Concerns
54% extremely concerned, 43% somewhat concerned about disconnection.
Cost and confidence dominate:
- Financial burden of upgrading devices (50 responses)
- Lack of digital know‑how (42)
Other major issues:
- Risk of losing 111 calling
- Patchy coverage in rural/remote areas
- Confusing or insufficient information
“With the 3G shutdown, we still have major issues with service when the weather in our rural community is bad.” – Respondent from Manawatū‑Whanganui
“What will you do to support people who can’t afford to upgrade and don’t have the digital literacy skills to make the shift?” – Respondent from Wellington
Key Recommendations
Communicate clearly and proactively: Deliver consistent, accessible, multilingual messaging so every whānau knows what’s changing, when, and what action they must take.
Accelerate device upgrades: Launch subsidy schemes, trade‑in offers, and community‑driven donation programmes to ensure vulnerable households have 4G/5G‑ready devices.
Boost digital confidence: Invest in hands‑on, community‑based digital skills programmes that empower people to use new devices safely and independently.
Secure rural connectivity and emergency access: Guarantee reliable 4G/5G coverage before 3G is retired and protect 111 and medical device users from disconnection.
The 3G shutdown risks widening Aotearoa’s digital divide if support isn’t prioritised for the people who need it most. Collaboration between telcos, Government and community organisations is essential to keep all whānau connected.