Are you thinking of switching broadband providers? Before you jump ship, here are ten things to consider so you don’t end up in a Wi-Fi dead zone, cursing your router like it’s 2005.
Availability in Your Area
Before you get too excited about that amazing deal, double-check if the provider operates in your area (not all NZ providers cover all of NZ!). There’s nothing worse than signing up, only to find out your new fibre connection is about as useful as dial-up in the middle of nowhere.
Pricing
Sure, saving money is great, but beware of hidden costs. Some providers dangle tempting intro offers, only for prices to shoot up faster than your data usage after Netflix releases a new season of your favourite show.
Reliability
Remember, a bargain isn’t really a bargain if you’re constantly yelling “Is the internet down again?!” over dinner. Stick with a provider known for solid reliability—Spark and One NZ are good bets, though your experience may vary, Mercury, Contact and Orcon are generally solid as well.
Speed
You don’t want to be in that household where everything stops so someone can download a file. If you’re big on streaming or gaming, fibre is your friend. Look to Spark, Mercury or Orcon for high speeds that will keep your movie nights buffer-free.
Data Allowance
Unlimited data is the dream, right? Just make sure your new plan isn’t secretly hiding a cap. No one likes the shock of reaching their data limit and having the internet speed drop to a crawl.
Customer Support
Trust us, you’ll want a provider with good customer service when your connection decides to take a holiday. Orcon and Mercury are known for keeping their customers happy, even when the internet gods aren’t.
Bundling Options
Some providers offer bundles that can save you cash. Fancy broadband with a side of power or mobile? Contact Energy and Mercury are known for some pretty decent deals—make sure you actually need that bundle before you go full combo.
Installation Costs
If your new provider requires installation, don’t be caught off guard. Ask about any potential fees so you don’t feel like you’ve been charged for the privilege of plugging in a router.
Contract Terms
Still stuck in a contract with your old provider? Watch out for exit fees. And keep an eye on the fine print with your new provider, unless you want to be tied down in an unbreakable contract period.
Reviews & Reputation
The internet is full of opinions, but reading reviews can help you avoid providers with patchy service or slow speeds. Providers like Spark, Orcon, and One NZ generally get good marks—just steer clear of the ones with reviews that sound like horror stories.
With these tips in mind, you’re well on your way to a smooth broadband switch. Happy surfing!
P.S. And remember our partner advisors are just a phone call away to help you make that all important decision: Contact Us Today!