There are a few broadband internet options available. So it’s good to do your homework before you choose one. Fibre is the most popular and now powers nearly 70% of New Zealand’s broadband connections.
Get a brief overview of fibre, terms, benefits and why fibre is the best way to connect.
Fibre basics
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Broadband options explained
ADSL / VDSL
This is the original broadband transmission technology - copper. The Copper network is currently being withdrawn nationwide, now that improved alternative technologies are available for kiwis. This offers an entry level experience for broadband, and is suitable for basic connectivity needs such as browsing the internet and emails.
Fixed wireless
This is broadband delivered wirelessly over 4G and 5G mobile networks. Its delivered from your nearest cellular network tower, which capacity is shared between standard mobile users and other fixed wireless homes in the area. If too many people are online at the same time, connection quality can be affected. Fixed Wireless supports most online activities including streaming, web browsing, emails and more.
Fibre Starter
This is the entry level experience for broadband delivered over fibre optic networks. With speeds of up to 100Mbps download and 20Mbps upload, it’s perfect for activities like web browsing, checking email, and streaming video. While it offers lower speeds than our other fibre options, Fibre Starter still outperforms traditional copper-based connections, delivering a more reliable and responsive online experience; all at an affordable price. With improved stability and reliability, Fibre Starter is great for video calls.
Fibre
Unlike other technologies fibre broadband allows for different download and upload speed options. The two most common: up to 500Mbps Download with 100Mbps upload, and up to 900Mbps download with 500Mbps upload. Fibre easily supports everything you want to do online with better capacity, more reliability and faster speeds than VDSL and Fixed Wireless Broadband.
Hyperfibre
Hyperfibre is our fastest-ever broadband, with speeds of up to 4 Gbps. Perfect for power users, smart homes, and businesses that rely on cloud tools, video, and large data transfers.
What connection is right for you?
Not all broadband is created equal. Before you choose a plan with your broadband provider it’s good to understand the difference between the technologies and connection types available.
Compare | ADSL/VDSL | Fixed wireless | LEO Satellite | Fibre Starter | Fibre | Hyperfibre |
Typical speeds | Up to 60 / 15Mbps | Up to 60 / 20Mbps | Up to 400 / 40Mbps | Up to 100 / 20Mbps | Up to 900 / 500Mbps | Up to 4000/4000Mbps |
Great for | Streaming video, video calling with apps like Zoom, uploading large files. | Web browsing, emailing, video streaming. | Streaming ultra-high-definition video, video calling with apps like Zoom, uploading large files, gaming. | Entry level fibre connection. Great for web browsing, email and basic video streaming in small to medium households. | A wide range of online activities, streaming ultra-high definition video, online gaming, video conferencing. | All online activity that standard fibre broadband supports but 40x faster and with much more data capacity. |
Devices | Up to 5 | 1–2 | 10+ | Up to 10 | 10+ | Unlimited |
Download** | ||||||
1 GB desktop app like Adobe Photoshop | 2 mins | 2 mins | 22 secs | 1 min 30 secs | 10 secs | 2 secs |
HD movie (4GB at 1080dpi) | 6 mins | 10 mins | 1 min 26 secs | 1 min | 9 secs | 9 secs |
25 GB game update | 60 mins | 60 mins | 9 mins | 36 mins | 4 mins | 32 secs |
50 GB game download | 2 hours | 2 hours | 18 mins | 1 hour 20 mins | 8 mins | 2 mins |
Potential for lag (Latency) | Likely | More Likely | Likely | Least Likely | Least Likely | Least Likely |
Potential buffering with UHD video streaming | Likely | More Likely | Likely | Least Likely | Least Likely | Least Likely |
Cost | $55–$110 | $45–$90 | $60–$160 | $60–$70 | $80–$150 | $120–$180 |
Average pricing source: Broadband Compare February 2026. Excludes modem, install and other variable costs.
Need help selecting an internet service provider?
Broadband Compare is New Zealand’s most comprehensive broadband comparison website. To choose from over 50 different fibre internet service providers
Tips for talking to your internet service provider
To get the right broadband plan to match your usage, make sure you ask the right questions.
Ask about data
While unlimited data is now common on fibre plans, some providers may still offer capped options. It’s worth comparing speed, price, and inclusions to find the best fit for your household.
Ask for speed
Make sure to ask about download and upload speeds. While fibre can transfer data at the speed of light, your internet service provider manages the actual speed at which data travels to and from your place. Ask your ISP for the right plan for you.
Important things to check
Usually your internet service provider will provide you with a router (the unit that connects the devices in your home to the internet) or you can purchase your own. Make sure the router you choose to use meets the latest specifications and can support your selected plan and speeds, otherwise you may not get the best from your fibre connection. Also tell your ISP about any other telecommunication services you’re using – medical dependency alarms, landline, set top box services such as SKY TV, or a monitored home alarm. They’ll guide you through how to ensure those stay connected.
