Find mobile phone plans perfect for seniors with simple pricing, excellent coverage, and easy-to-use features. Compare prepaid and postpaid options from 8+ New Zealand providers from $19/month.
Many providers offer no-contract prepaid plans with straightforward pricing. Get unlimited calls/texts + data from just $19/month. Easy number porting.
Here's what NZ seniors actually pay monthly for mobile plans based on their usage patterns.
Usage: Calls family daily, texts friends, WhatsApp with grandkids, occasional Google Maps
Data used: ~2GB/month average
$19/month
Skinny Unlimited + 3GB plan (rollover unused data)
Annual cost: $228 • Spark network coverage • No contract
Usage: Calls, texts, Facebook, TradeMe browsing, YouTube occasionally, email checking
Data used: ~7GB/month average
$25/month
2degrees Unlimited + 10GB plan (carryover data)
Annual cost: $300 • 5G included • Award-winning NZ support
Usage: Netflix on bus, Zoom calls with overseas family, social media, news apps, podcast streaming
Data used: ~35GB/month average
$40/month
Spark Mobile + Broadband Bundle (60GB mobile + unlimited home internet)
Annual cost: $480 mobile + $65/mo broadband = $1,260 total • Bundle saves $120/year
💡 Money-saving tip: Most seniors overestimate data needs. Track your usage for 2 months before choosing - many find 3-5GB is plenty, saving $15-30/month vs unlimited plans.
Coverage matters, especially for seniors traveling or in rural areas. Here's how NZ networks compare:
| Provider | Population Coverage | Geographic Coverage | Rural Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spark | 98.5% | 97.8% | Best for rural areas, strong South Island, widest 4G coverage |
| One NZ (Vodafone) | 98.3% | 96.5% | Good rural, excellent Auckland/Wellington, strong North Island |
| 2degrees | 98.0% | 92% | Excellent cities, limited rural - check coverage map first |
| Skinny (uses Spark) | 98.5% | 97.8% | Same as Spark network - best budget option with premium coverage |
Best choice: Spark or Skinny (uses Spark network)
Best choice: Any provider works well
Switching mobile providers is easier than you think. Here's exactly how to do it without losing your number.
Compare plans above and decide which suits your usage. Consider data needs, coverage area, and budget.
Call your current provider and request your PAC (Porting Authorization Code). They must provide it within 1 business day.
Quick reference:
• Spark: 0800 800 123
• One NZ: 0800 162 000
• 2degrees: 0800 022 022
Say: "I'd like my PAC code to port my number to another provider please."
Visit the provider's website or store. Provide your PAC code when signing up to keep your existing number.
Online signup: Takes 10 minutes. SIM delivered next day (free).
In-store signup: Walk out with SIM today. Staff help with setup.
Insert new SIM, follow activation instructions (usually via text). Your number transfers within 1-3 hours.
What happens: Old SIM stops working, new SIM activates with your existing number. All contacts, photos stay on your phone - only the SIM card changes.
⏱️ Timeline: Request PAC today → Receive within 24hrs → Sign up new provider → SIM arrives next day → Activate → Number transfers within 3 hours. Total: 2-3 days to complete switch.
If buying a new phone, these features make daily use much easier for seniors:
Large, Clear Display
6" or bigger screen, high brightness for outdoor reading
Simple Interface
Easy mode/simple launcher with big icons (Samsung, Android)
Emergency Button
Quick access to ICE contacts, some have physical SOS button
Hearing Aid Compatible
M3/T3 or better rating for hearing aid users
Long Battery Life
2+ days between charges (not all-day charging)
Oppo A79 5G - $349
6.7" screen, 3-day battery, simple mode, excellent value
Samsung Galaxy A15 - $299
Easy mode built-in, 6.5" AMOLED, good camera
Nokia G42 5G - $399
Clean Android, durable, long updates, simple interface
Doro 8100 - $449
Purpose-built for seniors, physical SOS button, remote help
Note: All available with plans from providers above, or buy outright.
No. All photos, contacts, apps stay on your phone. You're only changing the SIM card (the tiny chip that connects to the network). Your phone stays exactly the same.
Two options:
Tip: Connect to WiFi at home to save mobile data. Most data usage happens at home anyway.
Yes! You can port landline numbers to mobile. Takes 3-5 business days. Contact new mobile provider - they handle the transfer. Great for keeping the number family knows.
5G is faster mobile internet (10-20x faster than 4G). You don't need it for calls, texts, WhatsApp, or general use. Benefits: faster app downloads, smoother video streaming. Most plans include 5G at no extra cost if your phone supports it.
Check via:
Look at average monthly data over 2-3 months to choose your plan.
Compare mobile plans from 8+ New Zealand providers. Find simple, affordable options with no contracts from $19/month.