Best Internet & Phone Plans in NZ (2025 Comparison)
Finding the right internet and phone plan in New Zealand doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're after blazing-fast fibre speeds, budget-friendly wireless options, or bundled deals that save yo...
Finding the right internet and phone plan in New Zealand doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're after blazing-fast fibre speeds, budget-friendly wireless options, or bundled deals that save you money, there's something for everyone. We've compiled the latest broadband and phone deals available right now to help you make an informed choice.
Understanding Your Broadband Options
Before diving into specific plans, it's worth understanding the different types of broadband available across New Zealand. Your options typically include fibre, wireless, and in some areas, hyperfibre or satellite connections.
Fibre broadband offers the most reliable speeds for most New Zealanders, with typical download speeds ranging from 50 Mbps to 900 Mbps depending on your plan[1]. Wireless broadband is a good alternative if fibre isn't available in your area, offering speeds around 18โ64 Mbps[1]. For those wanting serious speed, hyperfibre is now available from providers like 2degrees, Zeronet, and Voyager, delivering speeds well over 1,000 Mbps[2].
Best Broadband Deals This Month
Mercury โ Best Bundle Deal
Mercury is currently offering one of the most generous promotions available: six months' free broadband when you bundle with electricity on a one-year contract[1]. Here's what they're offering:
- Wireless Broadband: 120GB/300GB/1000GB at 18/64Mbps โ Total savings from $414โ$474 depending on plan
- Fibre Classic: Unlimited data at 500/100Mbps for $96/month โ Total saving: $594
- Fibre Max: Unlimited data at 900/500Mbps for $111/month โ Total saving: $690
The savings are significant over a 12-month period, though you'll want to factor in the cost of the power plan you're bundling with. Note that Mercury charges $120 for a router plus a $15 delivery fee if you don't have your own[1].
Zeronet โ Best for First Five Months
If you're after immediate savings, Zeronet's half-price deal for the first five months is hard to beat[1]:
- Fibre Starter: 100/20Mbps โ $33.50/month (usual price $67)
- Fibre Essentials: 500/100Mbps โ $49.50/month (usual price $99)
- Unlimited Max: 900/500Mbps โ $57.50/month (usual price $115)
These prices are on a 12-month contract, so you'll pay the full price after the promotional period ends. Zeronet is also one of the few providers offering hyperfibre in New Zealand[2].
2degrees โ Best Value Overall
2degrees combines affordability with practical extras that make a real difference[2]. Their current offers include:
- Unlimited 500/100Mbps: $89/month (usual price $99)
- Unlimited 900/500Mbps: $104/month (usual price $114)
What makes 2degrees stand out is that modem rental is already included in their plans, unlike some competitors[2]. You'll also get an extra $10/month discount if you bundle with a Skinny mobile account, and a further $20/month if you add power.
Sky Broadband โ Best for Fibre Options
Sky offers discounts of between $5โ$15 across three fibre plans on a 12-month contract[1]:
- Fibre Starter: 50/10Mbps โ $60/month (usual price $65)
- Fibre Everyday: 300/100Mbps โ $90/month (usual price $100)
- Unlimited Gigantic: 900/500Mbps โ $105/month (usual price $120)
Further discounts apply if you bundle with a Sky subscription service.
Skinny โ Best Free Trial Period
Skinny offers generous free trial periods across wireless and fibre plans[1]:
- Wireless broadband: 60 days free (worth $90โ$110 depending on plan)
- Fibre broadband: 1 month free (worth $85 or $100)
You'll get an extra $10/month discount if you also have a Skinny mobile plan ($27 or above). Skinny also includes a free router with no connection fees.
Slingshot โ Best 12-Month Discount
Slingshot has a straightforward $10-off deal across unlimited fibre plans for the first 12 months[1]:
- Unlimited 500/100Mbps: $90/month (usual price $100)
- Unlimited Gigantic 900/500Mbps: $105/month (usual price $115)
Spark โ Best for Entertainment Bundles
Spark offers upgrades that bundle Netflix Standard ($25.99/month) and McAfee Security Standard ($4.95/month) into their plans[1]:
- Everyday Wireless Plus: Unlimited โ $73/month (includes Netflix and security)
- Max Wireless Plus (5G): Unlimited โ $76/month
- Essential Fibre Unlimited: 500/100Mbps โ $113/month
- Max Fibre Unlimited: 900/500Mbps โ $128/month
Bundling Your Broadband and Mobile
One of the best ways to save money is by bundling your broadband with a mobile plan. Most major providers offer discounts when you combine services. For example, 2degrees offers $10/month off when bundling broadband with a mobile account, plus an additional $20/month if you add power[1].
If you're already with a provider for mobile, it's worth checking whether they offer broadband discounts โ you might save more by staying with one company than switching providers.
Choosing the Right Speed for Your Needs
Broadband speeds can seem confusing with all the different options available. Here's a practical guide to help you choose:
- 50โ100 Mbps: Suitable for basic browsing, email, and light streaming. Good for single-person households or couples.
- 300 Mbps: Ideal for families with multiple devices, video streaming, and working from home.
- 500โ900 Mbps: Perfect for households with heavy usage, online gaming, 4K streaming, and multiple simultaneous connections.
- 1,000+ Mbps (Hyperfibre): For power users, content creators, and households with extreme bandwidth demands.
If you're unsure, start with a 300 Mbps plan โ it's fast enough for most New Zealand households and offers good value for money.
Things to Consider Before Signing Up
Contract Length
Most providers offer both 12-month contracts and open-term options. Contracts typically come with lower monthly rates, while open-term plans cost slightly more but give you flexibility to switch if you're unhappy.
Setup Costs
Watch out for hidden setup fees. Some providers charge for router rental, delivery, or installation. Mercury, for example, charges $120 for a router plus $15 delivery if you don't have your own[1]. Others like Skinny include a free router with no connection fees.
Data Limits
Most fibre plans now come with unlimited data, but wireless plans may have data caps. Check whether your plan includes unlimited data or has usage limits that might affect your bill.
Upload Speeds
If you work from home, create content, or video call regularly, upload speeds matter. Look for plans with at least 10โ20 Mbps upload speeds. Fibre plans typically offer 100 Mbps upload on faster tiers.
How to Compare Plans Effectively
New Zealand has several excellent broadband comparison tools that make it easy to find the right plan for your address and needs. Websites like Glimp, Broadband Compare, and Canstar let you filter by your location, speed requirements, and budget. These tools are free to use and can help you see all available options in your area.
When comparing, make sure you're looking at the actual monthly cost after any promotional periods end. A deal might seem great for the first six months, but if the price jumps significantly after that, it might not be the best long-term choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between fibre and wireless broadband?
Fibre broadband uses physical cables to deliver internet and typically offers faster, more reliable speeds (up to 900 Mbps). Wireless broadband uses radio signals and is a good option if fibre isn't available in your area, though speeds are generally lower (typically 18โ64 Mbps)[1].
Can I get broadband without a phone line?
Yes. Most modern fibre plans don't require a phone line โ you're just paying for internet. However, if you want a home phone service, you can usually add it as an optional extra for an additional monthly fee.
What should I do if my broadband is too slow?
First, check whether faster plans are available in your area using a comparison tool. If you're already on a fast plan, the issue might be with your router or Wi-Fi signal. Try restarting your router, moving it to a central location, or switching to the 5GHz Wi-Fi band if available. If problems persist, contact your provider's support team.
Are there any broadband plans specifically for rural areas?
Yes, several providers specialise in rural broadband, including wireless and satellite options. Starlink satellite broadband is now available in many rural areas and offers speeds around 226 Mbps download[4]. Check comparison sites to see what's available at your specific address.
How do I switch providers?
Most providers handle the switching process for you โ you just need to sign up with the new provider and give them your current provider's details. There's usually no downtime, and you won't be left without internet during the switch. Check whether you're in a contract with your current provider, as early exit fees may apply.
Should I bundle my broadband with power?
Bundling can save money, especially with providers like Mercury that offer six months free broadband[1]. However, make sure you're getting a good deal on the power component as well. Compare the total cost of bundling versus paying for services separately before committing.
Making Your Final Choice
The best internet plan for you depends on your specific needs, location, and budget. If you want the biggest upfront savings, Mercury's bundle deal is excellent value. For immediate savings on fibre, Zeronet's half-price offer is hard to beat. If you prefer reliability and included extras, 2degrees offers solid value with modem rental included.
Start by checking what's available at your address using a free comparison tool, then narrow down your options based on speed requirements and budget. Don't forget to factor in any bundling discounts with mobile or power plans โ these can add up to significant annual savings.
Ready to switch? Visit your chosen provider's website or use a comparison tool to get started. Most providers make the process straightforward, and you could be saving money within days.
Sources & References
- Best Broadband Deals in NZ (January 2026) โ Canstar
- Compare Broadband โ January 2026 โ MoneyHub NZ
- Compare 89 Broadband Deals: Plans, Prices & More โ Glimp
- Compare Fibre & Wireless Broadband Plans in NZ โ Canstar
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