Ultimate Fibre Broadband Guide 2025
Everything you need to know about fibre broadband in New Zealand. Compare providers, understand speeds, learn about installation, and find the perfect fibre plan for your needs.
Quick Stats: NZ Fibre in 2025
What is Fibre Broadband?
How Fibre Works
Fibre broadband uses thin strands of glass or plastic to transmit data using light pulses. This technology provides incredibly fast speeds with minimal signal degradation over long distances.
- Light-speed data transmission
- Reliable, consistent performance
- Low latency for gaming/calls
Fibre vs Other Technologies
Types of Fibre Technology in NZ
GPON (Gigabit Passive Optical Network)
95% of fibre connectionsMost common fiber technology in NZ
Maximum Speed
2.5 Gbps down / 1.25 Gbps up
Key Providers
Chorus, Enable, Ultrafast Fibre
XGS-PON
Limited rollout - major citiesNext-generation fiber technology
Maximum Speed
10 Gbps down / 10 Gbps up
Key Providers
Chorus (select areas), Enable
Point-to-Point Fiber
Business/enterprise mainlyDedicated fiber connection
Maximum Speed
1+ Gbps symmetrical
Key Providers
Various wholesale providers
Fibre Speed Tiers Explained
Understanding which fibre speed tier you need depends on household size, usage patterns, and future requirements.
Fibre Max
100/20 MbpsHousehold Size
1-3 people
Typical Cost
$75-90/month
Best For:
Basic streaming, web browsing
Sufficient For:
- Netflix HD
- Video calls
- Smart home devices
Fibre 300
300/100 MbpsHousehold Size
3-5 people
Typical Cost
$85-100/month
Best For:
4K streaming, gaming, home office
Sufficient For:
- Multiple 4K streams
- Gaming + streaming
- Large file uploads
Gigabit Fibre
900/450 MbpsHousehold Size
5+ people
Typical Cost
$95-120/month
Best For:
Heavy usage, content creation
Sufficient For:
- Livestreaming
- VR/AR applications
- Professional video editing
Hyperfibre
8000/8000 MbpsHousehold Size
Enterprise/prosumer
Typical Cost
$150-200/month
Best For:
Extreme performance needs
Sufficient For:
- Data centers
- Professional studios
- Future-proofing
Best Fibre Providers 2025
Spark
Nationwide - Chorus network
Best Plan: Fibre Max 900
🎁 Current Bonus
Netflix Premium included
Key Advantages:
- • Best coverage
- • Netflix inclusion
- • Gaming optimization
2degrees
Nationwide - Multiple networks
Best Plan: Max Fibre
🎁 Current Bonus
Amazon Prime Video + $200 credit
Key Advantages:
- • Excellent value
- • Prime Video
- • Gaming optimized
Vodafone
Major centers - Select networks
Best Plan: SuperFibre 900
🎁 Current Bonus
WiFi 6 router + Sky Sport
Key Advantages:
- • Premium equipment
- • Sky Sport
- • Mobile bundles
Skinny
Nationwide - Spark network
Best Plan: Unlimited Plus
🎁 Current Bonus
No setup fees
Key Advantages:
- • Budget-friendly
- • Spark network quality
- • No contracts
Fibre Installation Process
Getting fibre connected involves several steps. Here's what to expect during the process:
1. Check Availability
Use provider tools to verify fibre is available at your address
2. Choose Provider & Plan
Compare speeds, prices, and included features
3. Place Order
Sign up online or over phone with chosen provider
4. Installation Booking
Technician visit scheduled for connection
5. Fibre Installation
Technician installs ONT (fiber modem) and tests connection
6. Setup & Testing
Configure router, test speeds, and activate services
Fibre Broadband Costs
Monthly Costs
Setup Costs
💡 Money-Saving Tips
- • Look for deals waiving connection fees (save $99-199)
- • Choose plans including free router (save $200-400)
- • Consider 12-month contracts for better pricing
- • Bundle with mobile for additional discounts
- • Compare total cost over contract period, not just monthly price
Fibre Broadband FAQ
What is fibre broadband and how does it work?
Fibre broadband uses fiber optic cables made of glass or plastic to transmit data using light signals. This provides much faster speeds and more reliable connections than traditional copper ADSL lines. In NZ, most fibre connections use GPON technology providing up to 900+ Mbps speeds.
Is fibre better than ADSL or cable internet?
Yes, fibre is significantly better than ADSL or cable. Fibre offers faster speeds (up to 900+ Mbps vs 24 Mbps ADSL), lower latency, more reliable connections, and symmetrical upload speeds. It's also more future-proof as demand for bandwidth increases.
How much does fibre broadband cost in New Zealand?
Fibre broadband in NZ costs $75-200/month depending on speed and provider. Basic 100/20 Mbps plans start at $75-90, while gigabit speeds cost $95-130. Premium plans with streaming inclusions range $100-150/month.
What fibre speeds do I need for my household?
For 1-2 people with basic usage, 100 Mbps is sufficient. 3-4 people with 4K streaming and gaming need 300 Mbps. 5+ people or heavy users should consider 900 Mbps. Upload speeds matter for video calls and content creation.
Is fibre available at my address?
Fibre is available at 87% of NZ addresses. Check availability using provider websites by entering your address. Chorus provides the largest fibre network, while Enable covers Christchurch and Ultrafast Fibre serves smaller centers.
How long does fibre installation take?
Fibre installation typically takes 1-3 weeks to schedule and 2-4 hours for the actual technician visit. Installation involves connecting fiber from the street to your home and installing an ONT (optical network terminal).
Can I keep my existing phone number with fibre?
Yes, you can port your existing landline number to VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services. Most providers offer VoIP options, or you can use third-party services. Traditional copper landlines won't work with fibre.
What's the difference between download and upload speeds?
Download speed affects how fast you receive data (streaming, browsing). Upload speed affects sending data (video calls, file sharing, livestreaming). Fibre offers much better upload speeds than ADSL - important for modern internet usage.
Ready to Switch to Fibre?
Compare fibre plans from all major NZ providers and find your perfect match.