Understanding New Zealand’s 3G network shutdown and its impact on agriculture.
The upcoming 3G network shutdown in New Zealand marks a significant step in the evolution of telecommunications, as mobile providers phase out 3G in favour of faster, more efficient 4G and 5G networks. This shift is particularly impactful for those who rely on 3G technology in agriculture and rural areas, where communication is often more critical due to remote locations.
While the shutdown or 'rollover' can be inconvenient and costly for many farmers and rural contractors, who may need to invest in new hardware, cover upfront costs, and commit to long-term contracts, it also presents a timely opportunity. This period of change provides a chance to pause and reassess current needs against what is available in the market, helping ensure that the transition supports both immediate requirements and long-term connectivity.
So, what is happening with 3G?
Telecom companies across New Zealand have announced plans to shut down their 3G networks over the next few years, with Spark slating their final shutdown to occur late in 2025. This move frees up resources for expanding 4G and 5G services, which provide faster internet speeds, better connectivity and support for more advanced technologies.
Why this matters for farms and rural contractors:
Legacy equipment: Many farms use equipment, sensors, guidance or monitoring systems that rely on 3G connectivity. With the shutdown, these systems may no longer function unless updated to support 4G or 5G which in many cases means investment into new hardware which can be costly.
Remote areas with limited coverage: Some rural regions rely primarily on 3G for mobile coverage. In these cases, alternative solutions, like transitioning to 4G or other connectivity options, will be needed to maintain communication and operational technology.
Impact on essential services: Livestock monitoring, irrigation control and soil sensors often rely on 3G for data transfer. When 3G is no longer available, systems depending on it will need to be upgraded or replaced.
What farmers and contractors should do:
Assess equipment: Check if any farm equipment or systems rely on 3G. Contact vendors or service providers to confirm whether your devices are compatible with 4G or 5G and what steps are needed for a smooth transition.
Explore 4G and 5G coverage: Find out if your area has adequate 4G or 5G coverage. If not, consider discussing alternative connectivity solutions, such as satellite internet or private LTE networks, especially if your farm is in a remote location.
Upgrade devices as needed: For any essential equipment or tools that only support 3G, consider upgrading to newer models. Many tech providers offer trade-in options or discounts to help users transition to 4G and 5G-compatible devices.
Benefits of transitioning away from 3G
While the shift from 3G may require an upfront investment, the transition opens several long-term benefits, including:
Faster and more reliable connectivity: 4G and 5G networks provide quicker data speeds and more reliable connections, which can improve the efficiency of farm operations.
Future-ready infrastructure: By upgrading to 4G or 5G, farms will be better prepared to adopt emerging technologies like IoT (Internet of Things) devices, autonomous machinery and real-time data monitoring.
Enhanced coverage: As telecom providers repurpose the 3G spectrum, they plan to improve rural 4G and 5G networks, offering better coverage and reliability in areas previously underserved.
Planning ahead
The 3G shutdown may feel like a challenge, but with a proactive approach, it’s an opportunity to enhance farm productivity, connectivity, and access to advanced agricultural technology.
Precision Farming offers a smart, flexible solution that enables farmers and contractors to connect existing hardware and integrate leading platforms like John Deere Operations Center, Tirotech, Trimble, TopCon, and the soon-to-launch Case & New Holland Field Ops. These technologies often come with competitive deals, lower subscription fees and can be linked directly into your fertiliser co-op for streamlined ordering and proof of placement.
Still weighing up your next guidance partner or looking for a simple solution? The Spreadify app, powered by Precision Farming, turns your smartphone or tablet into a smart, user-friendly control hub – delivering entry level guidance and seamless job management across any piece of farm equipment, keeping your operation moving efficiently and stress-free without the hassle.
If your guidance hardware is being affected by the 3G shutdown and you want to explore your options, give us a call on 0800 477 001 and let’s chat.