How do I check if my elevator's emergency phone needs to be upgraded?

Contact us and we will guide you through the process.

Why are 3G networks being phased out?

The capacity of the networks is limited, and the need for data is still growing. 3G partly uses the same frequency as 4G. The space created by the discontinuation of 3G can be used by carriers for 4G traffic.

When will the 3G networks stop working?

Providers in New Zealand have announced varying timelines for the shutdown of their 3G networks, with One NZ leading the way at the end of March 2025, followed by others later in the year. To prevent the risk of having a non-functioning emergency phone, we recommend upgrading before March 2025. This ensures you remain covered, regardless of your mobile provider.

What happens if I don't upgrade?

If a passenger gets trapped inside, emergency phones connected to 3G networks may no longer function once the networks are phased out. This means the passenger won't be able to contact our 24/7 Customer Care Centre for assistance—and your elevator may fail its next regulatory inspection. It's the building owner's responsibility to ensure the elevator complies with legislation.

Are the costs for this upgrade covered by the contract?

No, the costs are not covered by your contract. The discontinuation of 3G is not a decision of KONE but has been decided by the carriers. This unforeseen (necessary) modification of your installation(s) is therefore not covered by contract.

Important service notice: Upgrade your elevator’s emergency system to 4G

As mobile network providers in New Zealand phase out 3G networks, your elevator's emergency communication system may stop working. This means, if a passenger gets trapped inside an elevator, emergency phones connected to 3G networks may no longer function, preventing them from contacting our team for assistance. It’s crucial to act now to avoid future mishaps.

Why upgrade to 4G now?

3G networks are shutting down – Emergency phones connected to 3G may stop working, meaning trapped passengers could be unable to contact our team for help.
Fixed lines are becoming unreliable – As copper networks are replaced by fibre, fixed line systems may fail during power outages without battery backup. Upgrading to 4G ensures reliable, always-on communication.

What is an emergency phone and why is it important?

An emergency phone is a crucial alarm system linking the elevator to KONE's customer service round the clock. This connection ensures that users can always reach KONE if the lift malfunctions, thus ensuring user safety.

How does an emergency phone work?

The emergency phone in the elevator is connected to a mobile network via a modem, enabling a direct connection to KONE Customer Service & Admin team. However, many of these emergency phones still operate on the 3G network or fixed line. With the 3G shutdown underway and fixed lines becoming unreliable during a power failure, any emergency phones that haven’t been upgraded may no longer function when needed most—putting passenger safety at risk.

For further information, download our factsheet:

How does this affect me and when is the deadline?

To ensure your elevator’s emergency phone continues to function, it’s essential to upgrade its modem to one compatible with 4G before Wednesday, 31 December 2025.

Please note that different service providers have set varying deadlines for their 3G network closures:

2degrees will shut down its 3G service in late 2025.
One NZ will close its 3G service by 31 December 2025.
Spark NZ will discontinue its 3G service in late 2025.

Upgrading now ensures uninterrupted emergency communication and compliance with network changes.

How can KONE assist you in smoothly navigating this transition seamlessly?

To ensure that emergency phones connected to 3G networks remain functional, upgrading them to be compatible with the 4G network will be required. Our experts can help you assess the condition of your elevator's emergency phone and recommend the best course of action for you and your equipment.

Let us help you

Whether you have questions about our services or want to know more about recommended solutions, get in touch.

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How can we help you?

If you're requesting a service call out or repair please contact KONE’s 24/7 Customer Care Centre on 1300 362 022. For general enquiries, please fill in the form below.

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Equipment/service type *|Elevators|Escalators|Autowalks|Advanced People Flow solutions

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Dive into the Details

Contact us and we will guide you through the process.
The capacity of the networks is limited, and the need for data is still growing. 3G partly uses the same frequency as 4G. The space created by the discontinuation of 3G can be used by carriers for 4G traffic.
Providers in New Zealand have announced varying timelines for the shutdown of their 3G networks, with One NZ leading the way at the end of March 2025, followed by others later in the year. To prevent the risk of having a non-functioning emergency phone, we recommend upgrading before March 2025. This ensures you remain covered, regardless of your mobile provider.
If a passenger gets trapped inside, emergency phones connected to 3G networks may no longer function once the networks are phased out. This means the passenger won't be able to contact our 24/7 Customer Care Centre for assistance—and your elevator may fail its next regulatory inspection. It's the building owner's responsibility to ensure the elevator complies with legislation.
No, the costs are not covered by your contract. The discontinuation of 3G is not a decision of KONE but has been decided by the carriers. This unforeseen (necessary) modification of your installation(s) is therefore not covered by contract.

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Important service notice: Upgrade your elevator’s emergency system to 4G

Upgrade Elevator Emergency System to 4G

Upgrade Elevator Emergency System to 4G

Why upgrade to 4G now?

What is an emergency phone and why is it important?

How does an emergency phone work?

How does this affect me and when is the deadline?

How can KONE assist you in smoothly navigating this transition seamlessly?

Let us help you

Sample form

Dive into the Details

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