The 3G Shutdown: What You Need to Know
For New Zealand fleets still operating on 3G, the clock is ticking. The nationwide shutdown is set for 31 December 2025—a decision made by the mobile network operators, not by Smartrak. If your organisation hasn’t started planning the upgrade to 4G, now’s the time to act.
Smartrak, like all telematics providers, must operate within these parameters and ensure our customers are prepared for what is an industry-wide transition.
December 31st might seem a long way off, but consider the ducks that need to be in a row to ensure a seamless transition.
You’ll also need to factor in the high demand expected closer to the deadline. Many fleets will be seeking replacement devices simultaneously, which could cause a product supply logjam—especially if action is left too late.
Our Product Development and Customer Success teams have been working on a robust 4G transition strategy.
We’re focused on ensuring operational continuity throughout and beyond the transition—delivering a seamless switch from 3G to 4G while unlocking the benefits of new capabilities.
Smartrak has been actively preparing our customers through general updates and targeted outreach from our Customer Success Managers. The aim? To make sure every customer is informed and equipped with a successful transition plan.
4G is more than an upgrade—it’s a leap forward. With speeds up to 500 times faster than 3G, 4G supports high-data applications like mobile video, teleconferencing, and improved real-time telematics.
With 4G, advanced solutions like video capture before accidents and driver behaviour monitoring (e.g., fatigue or smoking detection) become more viable. This opens up exciting new safety and compliance opportunities.
4G delivers excellent urban connectivity. And in areas where 4G may dip, our Nextrak device falls back to 2G - offering even better overall coverage than current 3G. For remote zones, we also recommend satellite or dual cellular/satellite solutions.
We’ve rigorously tested 4G-ready replacements—pushing them through black spot journeys and performance reviews.
Today, the entire Smartrak solution suite is 4G compatible.
If you’ve recently bought hardware from us, you’re already future-proofed.
Still running on 3G? Let’s start upgrading. Every fleet has unique needs, and we’re ready to work with you to create a bespoke 4G Transition Plan.
Smartrak’s Help Desk and Customer Success Managers are here to support your transition with tailored advice and deep knowledge.
If you’re a Smartrak customer, get in touch with your Customer Success Manager today or Log a Ticket with Customer Support Team to start your plan.
