Number porting allows you to keep your existing mobile number when switching to a new provider. In New Zealand, this process is free, regulated, and typically takes 1-2 business days.
📞 What is Number Porting?
Number porting (also called number transfer) is the process of moving your mobile phone number from one provider to another. Your number becomes "portable" and can be transferred between any NZ mobile networks.
Your Rights in New Zealand
- Number porting is free by law
- All NZ providers must support porting
- Your old provider cannot refuse the request
- Process is regulated by Commerce Commission
⏱️ Porting Timeline
Request PAC Code
Same day: Get Porting Authorization Code from current provider
Submit to New Provider
Same day: Provide PAC and account details to new provider
Processing
1-2 business days: Networks coordinate the transfer
Transfer Complete
Automatic: Your number switches to new provider
📋 What You'll Need
PAC Code
Porting Authorization Code from your current provider (valid for 30 days)
Account Number
Your current account number (found on bills or from customer service)
Account Details
Name on account must match ID exactly (case-sensitive)
Payment Info
Credit card or bank details for new provider payment setup
🎯 Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Get Your PAC Code
Contact your current provider and request a PAC:
- Phone: Call customer service
- Online: Use provider's website or app
- In-store: Visit retail location
Tip: PAC codes are issued immediately and are free by law.
Step 2: Choose Your New Provider
Select your new plan and provider:
- Compare plans and coverage
- Consider contract vs prepaid options
- Check for porting promotions
Step 3: Initiate the Port
Sign up with your new provider and provide:
- PAC code
- Current account number
- Exact name as shown on current account
- Preferred transfer date (or immediate)
Step 4: Wait for Completion
During the porting process:
- Keep your old SIM active
- Don't cancel your old service
- Monitor for confirmation messages
- Test your new SIM once notified
⚠️ Common Issues and Solutions
Port request rejected
Causes: Name mismatch, incorrect PAC, or account in dispute
Solution: Verify all details exactly match your current account
Port takes longer than expected
Causes: Business numbers, complex accounts, or technical issues
Solution: Contact new provider for status update after 3 business days
Service disruption during port
Causes: Technical glitches or timing issues
Solution: Keep old SIM active until new service confirmed working
PAC code expired
Causes: PAC codes are only valid for 30 days
Solution: Request a new PAC code from your current provider
💡 Pro Tips for Smooth Porting
🕐 Timing Matters
Start the port on Tuesday-Thursday to avoid weekend delays
📄 Double-Check Details
Ensure name on new account exactly matches old account
💳 Account Status
Ensure your current account has no outstanding disputes
📱 Backup Plan
Keep your old SIM until new service is fully working
🏢 Business Number Porting
Business numbers may take longer to port:
- Timeline: 3-5 business days
- Requirements: Business registration documents
- Verification: Additional identity checks required
- Bulk ports: Multiple numbers can be ported together
Ready to Port Your Number?
Find the perfect plan for your ported number
Browse Mobile Plans Full Switching Guide