Porting your mobile number (No boat required)

You may have heard the word “porting” and wondered if it means you’re heading off to sea. Don’t worry, no life jacket needed. In telco terms, porting simply means transferring your mobile number from one provider to another, so you can switch plans without losing your number.

Sometimes people hesitate to switch mobile providers because they worry the process will be complicated, that they might lose contacts, or that their service will drop out for a while. In reality, porting is quick and straightforward, and your contacts stay exactly where they are. Putting it off could mean missing out on better value or more reliable service for no real reason at all.

We’ve gone ahead and put together a handy set of Facts and Questions to guide you through the process. They’re designed to help you follow best practices and make switching providers as smooth and stress-free as possible.

What does “porting” my number mean? 
Porting means transferring your current mobile number from your existing provider to a new provider. You get to keep your number so friends, colleagues and family can still reach you without any changes.

What do I need from my current provider to make the switch? 
Not much at all. You’ll just need your account details with your current provider, like the name on the account and account number, and confirmation that your number is eligible to be ported. That’s it, we’ll take care of the rest.

Do I need to pay my last bill? 
Before you start, make sure your account is paid up and there’s no outstanding balance, as unpaid bills can delay the process. 
 
Do I need to tell my current provider about the switch? 
No, you usually don’t need to contact them yourself. When you sign up with your new provider and request to bring your number, they handle the switch for you. Just make sure your account is up to date and your final bill is paid, as unpaid balances can delay the process. 
 
What if I am still in a contract with my current provider?
You can still switch, but it’s a good idea to check if there are any early termination fees or remaining charges on your contract. These fees come from your current provider, not your new one, and will usually appear on your final bill.

How do I request the port? 
When signing up with your new provider, let them know you want to bring your current number. They will handle most of the process and communicate with your old provider.

Can I use my old SIM during the port? 
You may need to switch to a new SIM from your new provider. Your old SIM usually stops working once the port completes, so plan ahead to avoid downtime.

Can I choose between a regular SIM and an eSIM? 
Yes! When you port your number, you can choose a physical SIM or an eSIM depending on your device. A physical SIM works the way you’re used to—you pop the card into your phone and you’re good to go. An eSIM is even easier: you simply scan a QR code provided by your new provider, and your phone activates instantly. No waiting for a card to arrive in the mail, and you can get connected in minutes.

How long does it take? 
Most standard mobile number ports in New Zealand are completed within one business day. Corporate accounts, business plans, or unusual number types may take up to 2–3 business days. Keep in mind that industry-wide numbers cannot be ported on public holidays, so plan your switch accordingly.

Are there any fees? 
Good news! In most cases, there’s no fee to port your number in New Zealand.

Any final tips for a smooth port? 
Make sure your personal details match exactly between both providers