What does the withdrawal of the copper wire network mean?

With the roll-out of the fibre network across New Zealand, the copper wire network is being phased out. This means that traditional landline and broadband internet services (namely ADSL and VDSL) will soon be unusable.

As well as the withdrawal of the copper line, Spark is also phasing out the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), an analogue network that connects voice calls over copper lines, which is reaching the end of its lifespan. This process is occurring concurrently with the withdrawal of copper, and it is being done to replace outdated technology with more modern alternatives.

Once the PSTN is removed, those with an old home phone connected to the copper network will need to switch to an alternative phone service. Additionally, if you currently use ADSL or VDSL internet and wish to maintain it, you may also need to consider changing providers. This is because Spark will cease offering copper broadband to customers in areas where the PSTN is being decommissioned, provided that there is a suitable alternative technology available to meet the household's requirements.

If Chorus or your service provider doesn’t contact you about these changes, you’re not affected and your current services will continue.

Telecommunications companies will work with vulnerable people to ensure they always have a way of contacting emergency services in the event of a power cut.

• If your medical alarm, monitored home security alarm, or any other service is dependent on your existing copper connection, it is crucial to contact your alarm provider. They can guide you in taking the necessary measures to ensure that these services function seamlessly on your new connection.
• In case you use your landline to dial 111 emergency services for health, disability, or safety-related issues, you should check with your service provider to verify if you qualify as a vulnerable consumer. If eligible, you may be offered an alternative means to contact 111 during a power outage, ensuring that you can get the assistance you need in case of an emergency.

While this transition to is expected to improve internet speeds and connectivity for many New Zealanders, it certainly poses challenges for many older people. You can download a factsheet about the copper withdrawal, created by the NZ Telecommunications Forum and Consumer NZ.