Best Internet Providers NZ
The digital landscape in our country has evolved rapidly, with reliable internet connectivity becoming an essential utility for homes and businesses alike. As we navigate through the myriad of options available, it’s crucial to understand which providers offer the best service, value, and reliability. Here’s a comprehensive look at some of the top internet providers in the market.
1. Now
Now has consistently proven itself as a customer favourite, earning the top spot for customer satisfaction for the fourth time in five years. This achievement is particularly impressive given the competitive nature of the broadband market.
Pros:
- Excellent customer service
- Range of VDSL and fibre broadband plans
- Now Assist app for troubleshooting
Cons:
- Extra charges apply for modems
Now offers a variety of plans to suit different needs, and their customer-centric approach has clearly resonated with Kiwi consumers. Their Ultra Unlimited plan offers speeds of up to 885/480 Mbps for $105 per month.
2. Skinny
Skinny has made a name for itself with its great value offerings, earning a top 5-Star rating for Value for Money. They’ve also dominated the mobile provider space, winning the People’s Choice award for eight consecutive years.
Pros:
- Competitive pricing
- 4-Star ratings across most categories
- Prepaid options available
Cons:
- 3-Star rating for Customer Service
Skinny’s broadband plans, particularly their wireless options, offer an attractive balance of affordability and performance. Their Fibre Unlimited plan is priced at $80 per month, making it one of the most cost-effective options in the market.
3. Spark
As one of the largest telcos in the country, Spark offers a comprehensive range of services, including some of the fastest broadband options available.
Pros:
- Extensive coverage
- High-speed plans, including 5G options
- Bundled services with Netflix subscriptions
Cons:
- Can be pricier than some competitors
Spark’s Max Wireless Plus (5G Unlimited) plan, priced at $80 per month, offers excellent value, especially with the included Netflix subscription.
4. 2degrees
2degrees has built a reputation for offering fair deals and has won awards for being the fairest telco.
Pros:
- Cost-saving deals on broadband and mobile plans
- Strong focus on customer fairness
- Competitive fibre plans
Cons:
- Coverage may not be as extensive as larger providers
2degrees offers an Ultimate Unlimited Hyperfibre plan with speeds up to 4000/4000 Mbps for $169 per month, catering to users with high-bandwidth needs.
5. Orcon
Orcon has been at the forefront of providing high-speed internet solutions, particularly in the fibre space.
Pros:
- Offers some of the fastest plans in the market
- Fibre Pro plan with speeds up to 874/498 Mbps
- Known for innovative offerings
Cons:
- Higher-tier plans can be expensive
Orcon’s Fibre Pro plan is priced at $109 per month, offering impressive speeds for power users.
6. One NZ (formerly Vodafone)
One NZ, while having a large customer base, has faced challenges in customer satisfaction.
Pros:
- Wide range of plans
- Extensive network coverage
- Fibre Max plan offering speeds up to 905/498 Mbps
Cons:
- Lower customer satisfaction ratings
- Ranked poorly for clarity of contract terms and customer support
One NZ’s Fibre Max plan is priced at $105 per month, offering competitive speeds.
Broadband Speeds and Global Context
It’s worth noting that our country ranks 23rd globally for fixed broadband speeds, with an average speed of 163 Mbps as of January 2024. While this is a respectable position, there’s still room for improvement, especially considering the widespread availability of fibre connections offering speeds up to 950 Mbps.
Choosing the Right Provider
When selecting an internet provider, consider factors beyond just speed and price:
- Reliability: Look for providers with a track record of consistent service.
- Customer Support: Providers like Now have excelled in this area, which can be crucial when issues arise.
- Contract Flexibility: Some providers offer no-contract options, which can be beneficial for those who value flexibility.
- Additional Services: Bundles that include streaming services or mobile plans can offer added value.
The internet provider market is competitive, with companies constantly innovating to offer better services. While Now leads in customer satisfaction, other providers like Skinny, Spark, and 2degrees offer compelling options depending on individual needs. As our digital infrastructure continues to evolve, with initiatives like the nationwide fibre rollout, consumers can expect even better services and speeds in the future.
Remember to use comparison tools like those offered by Broadband Compare or Glimp to find the best fit for your specific requirements. The right internet plan can significantly enhance your digital experience, whether you’re streaming, working from home, or running a business.