Fastest broadband plans

In today's connected world, a fast and reliable internet connection is no longer a luxury—it's essential. Whether you're streaming your favourite shows in high-definition, competing in online games, working from home, or running a busy household with multiple devices, the speed of your broadband can make all the difference. A slow connection can lead to frustrating buffering, lag, and dropped video calls, while the right plan ensures a smooth and seamless online experience.

But with so many options and technical terms, how do you find the right connection? This guide is here to help. Our purpose is to help Kiwis like you navigate the market and find the fastest and best-value broadband deals available in New Zealand.

We'll break down everything you need to know, from understanding what "fast" really means to exploring the different types of high-speed connections like Fibre and Hyperfibre. We'll also help you compare providers and find the perfect plan for your household's needs and budget. Let's get started on finding the perfect high-speed internet for you.

What is "Fast Broadband" in New Zealand?

Before you can choose the fastest broadband plan, it’s helpful to understand what the terms and numbers actually mean. A "fast" connection for a single person streaming music is very different from what a family of avid gamers and 4K movie fans will need. This section will help you decode the jargon and figure out the right speed for you.

🔢 Understanding Broadband Speeds: What Do the Numbers Mean?

When you see broadband plans advertised, the speeds are usually measured in Mbps or Gbps. Here’s a simple breakdown:

• Mbps (Megabits per second): This is a standard measure of internet speed. The higher the number, the faster your internet connection, allowing you to download files quicker and stream video more smoothly.
• Gbps (Gigabits per second): This is 1,000 times faster than Mbps. Gigabit speeds are becoming more common with the rollout of fibre and are ideal for data-heavy activities.

Here’s a quick reference for what these speeds can handle in the real world:

• 100 Mbps: Great for streaming shows in HD on multiple devices, online gaming, and quick downloads.
• 1 Gbps (or 1000 Mbps): Perfect for households that stream in 4K, support competitive online gaming, and have many devices connected at once.

It’s also important to briefly consider latency. Think of latency as the "reaction time" of your connection. Low latency is crucial for activities that need instant responses, like online gaming and live video calls, as it reduces lag and delay.

👍 What is a Good Broadband Speed in NZ?

The ideal broadband speed depends entirely on how your household uses the internet. Here’s a general guide to help you choose:

• Small households (1-2 people): If your internet use is mostly for Browse, social media, and streaming HD video on one or two devices, a standard fibre plan will be more than enough.
• Medium households (3-4 people): For families or flatmates where multiple people are streaming in 4K, gaming online, and working from home, a faster fibre plan is recommended to keep everything running smoothly.
• Large households & Power users (5+ people): If your home is filled with heavy internet users—think competitive gamers, 4K streamers, and numerous smart home devices all running

Types of Fast Broadband Connections in NZ

To find the fastest internet, it helps to know what your options are. In New Zealand, high-speed broadband is delivered through a few key technologies, each with its own strengths.

🥇 Fibre Broadband: The Gold Standard for Speed

Fibre is the most popular choice for fast and reliable internet in New Zealand, and for good reason. It uses modern fibre-optic cables to send data as pulses of light, resulting in incredibly high speeds and a stable connection that isn't affected by weather or distance from the exchange. This makes it perfect for everything from 4K streaming to lag-free gaming.

Most Kiwis on Fibre choose from a few common plans:

• Standard Fibre (e.g., Fibre 300): A great starting point for smaller households, offering excellent speeds for streaming, Browse, and video calls.
• Gigabit Fibre (or Fibre Max): The most popular plan, offering download speeds of around 900 Mbps. It's the ideal choice for most families, gamers, and those working from home, easily handling dozens of connected devices at once.

🚀 Hyperfibre: The Future of Internet Speeds

If you want the absolute fastest residential broadband available in NZ, Hyperfibre is the answer. It uses the same reliable fibre network but is supercharged with upgraded technology to deliver breathtaking speeds that are symmetrical—meaning your upload speeds are just as fast as your downloads.

Hyperfibre is available in several tiers:

• 2,000 Mbps (2 Gbps)
• 4,000 Mbps (4 Gbps)
• 8,000 Mbps (8 Gbps)

Who is Hyperfibre for? It's designed for the most demanding internet users. This includes tech enthusiasts, professional content creators who upload massive video files, data-intensive businesses, and large households where multiple users are simultaneously gaming, streaming in 8K, and downloading large files.

📶 5G Broadband: The Wireless Revolution

5G broadband offers a powerful, high-speed internet connection without the need for a physical cable running into your home. It uses the latest generation 5G mobile network to deliver fast internet wirelessly to a dedicated modem. The setup is incredibly simple—just plug it in and you're ready to go.

Pros of 5G:

• Quick and easy setup with no technician required.
• Can achieve very fast speeds, sometimes rivalling fibre.
• Excellent alternative if fibre isn't available at your address.

Cons of 5G:

• Speeds can be more inconsistent than fibre, affected by network traffic and your home's distance from the cell tower.
• Latency (the delay in data transfer) is generally higher, which can be a consideration for competitive online gamers.

Several providers in New Zealand offer high-performing 5G networks, giving Kiwis a great wireless alternative for fast home broadband.

🔗 Other High-Speed Options: VDSL and HFC

If you can't get Fibre or 5G at your address yet, you may still have access to other fast broadband options.

• VDSL: Think of VDSL as a faster, supercharged version of the old copper-line broadband. It's a solid option if fibre hasn't reached your street, but your final speed will depend on how far your home is from the local cabinet.
• HFC (Hybrid Fibre-Coaxial): This connection uses a mix of fibre and the coaxial cables traditionally used for cable TV. Available in select areas like Wellington and Christchurch, HFC can deliver ultra-fast speeds that are on par with Gigabit Fibre, making it an excellent high-speed internet choice where available.

Top Providers for the Fastest Broadband in NZ

New Zealand is fortunate to have a competitive broadband market with many providers offering world-class Fibre and Hyperfibre speeds. While one provider might have the edge in a specific report, several companies consistently deliver top-tier performance. This healthy competition means more choice, better deals, and faster internet for everyone.

⚖️ Comparing the Best "Fastest Broadband" Plans

Finding the right plan means looking at speed, price, and included perks. The table below gives you an idea of what to expect from providers offering Gigabit Fibre and Hyperfibre plans.

Please note: Prices and promotional offers change frequently. This table is an illustrative guide. For the most up-to-date deals and to compare live prices, use the comparison tool on Broadband.co.nz.

Top Tip: Many providers offer significant discounts if you bundle your broadband with a mobile plan from the same company. Always check for these "bundle and save" deals.

🏆 Who Has the Fastest Broadband in NZ?

Determining the single "fastest" provider depends on how you measure performance. Independent testing from trusted global authorities provides a clear picture of the top performers in the New Zealand market.

• For Overall Speed and Reliability: According to recent independent reports from global leaders in network intelligence like Ookla (Speedtest Awards) and Opensignal, 2degrees is frequently recognised as a top performer for fixed broadband. It has consistently won awards for the fastest download speeds, network consistency, and best ISP gaming experience.
• For Overall Connection Quality: Reports from nPerf, which measure a complete quality score including speed, latency, and Browse/streaming experience, have highlighted Spark as a leading provider, awarding it top marks for overall fixed internet performance.
• For In-Home Experience: Other providers like One NZ have also been recognised for delivering an excellent in-home WiFi experience.

These awards demonstrate the high calibre of New Zealand's internet infrastructure. While 2degrees often leads in raw speed metrics, Spark is a strong all-around performer, and other providers excel in specific areas. This means Kiwis have access to some of the best and fastest broadband services in the world, with healthy competition driving continuous improvement.

Finding the Best Deals on Fast Broadband

The fastest speed doesn't have to come with the highest price tag. With so much competition between providers, there are always great deals available.

💰 How to Compare "Fastest Broadband NZ Prices"

The monthly price is just one part of the puzzle. To find the true value of a plan, you need to look at the complete offer. Here’s what to keep an eye on:

• Contract Length: Are you signing up for a fixed term (usually 12 or 24 months) or an open-term plan? Fixed-term contracts often come with the best deals, like sign-up credits or a free modem, while open-term plans offer more flexibility if you plan to move soon.
• Setup and Installation Fees: Many providers waive setup fees if you sign a contract, but it's always worth checking if there are any one-off costs to get connected, especially if you need a new fibre installation.
• Modem Costs: Does the plan include a free modem? Some providers offer one on contract, while others may require you to buy it upfront or pay a small monthly rental fee. If you have your own, check if a "Bring Your Own" (BYO) modem option is available to save money, but ensure it's compatible with the service (especially for Hyperfibre).

Beyond the basics, watch for these valuable promotional offers that can save you hundreds of dollars:

• Sign-up Credits: Many providers offer a credit of $100, $200, or even more, which is applied to your first few bills.
• Half-Price Deals: Look for introductory offers like "6 months half-price," which can lead to significant savings over the first year.
• Included Subscriptions: Some plans come with complimentary subscriptions to popular streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, or Prime Video.
• Free Tech: Occasionally, providers will offer free tech like a Smart TV or a new mesh WiFi system when you sign up for a premium plan.

🎁 Bundling Your Broadband for Extra Savings

One of the easiest ways to get a permanent discount on your high-speed internet is to bundle it with other services. Many of New Zealand's top providers also offer mobile and power plans, and they will reward you for taking more than one service from them.

The benefits are twofold: you get a significant monthly discount on your bill, and you get the convenience of dealing with just one company and one monthly payment. You can often save $10-$20 per month just by adding a mobile plan to your broadband account. If you bundle broadband and power, you can often get a percentage discount off your total bill.

If you’re happy with your current mobile or power provider, check if they also offer broadband—you could be missing out on an easy way to save.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Fast Broadband in NZ

Q: Who has the fastest broadband in NZ?

A: While New Zealand has many providers offering competitive, world-class speeds, independent reports often highlight specific providers for their performance. According to global leaders in network intelligence, 2degrees is frequently recognised for overall speed and reliability, having won awards for the fastest download speeds and best ISP gaming experience. For overall connection quality, which includes latency and streaming experience, reports have highlighted Spark as a leading provider.

Q: Which provider has the fastest broadband?

A: Based on independent testing, 2degrees has consistently won awards for the fastest fixed broadband download speeds in New Zealand. However, other providers are also strong performers, with Spark being recognised for its overall fixed internet performance and One NZ noted for its in-home WiFi experience.

Q: What's the best internet in New Zealand?

A: For most Kiwis, Fibre is the best choice for internet as it offers incredibly high speeds and a stable, reliable connection. If you require the absolute fastest speeds available, then Hyperfibre is the best option. The "best" provider often depends on what you value most, as some are recognised for raw speed while others are awarded for overall connection quality.

Q: How fast is Hyperfibre NZ?

A: Hyperfibre uses the standard fibre network but is supercharged to deliver symmetrical speeds, meaning your uploads are as fast as your downloads. It is available in several speed tiers: 2,000 Mbps (2 Gbps), 4,000 Mbps (4 Gbps), and 8,000 Mbps (8 Gbps).

Q: Who has the fastest 5G network in New Zealand?

A: Several providers in New Zealand offer high-performing 5G networks, providing a great wireless alternative for fast home broadband.

Q: What is a good broadband speed in NZ?

A: A good speed depends on your household's usage. A standard fibre plan is typically sufficient for small households of 1-2 people. Medium households of 3-4 people with multiple people streaming in 4K or gaming should consider a faster fibre plan. A 100 Mbps plan is great for streaming HD on multiple devices, while a 1 Gbps plan is perfect for 4K streaming and households with many connected devices.

Q: How do I check if I can get Fibre or Hyperfibre at my address?

A: The first step in choosing a plan is to check which connection types are available at your address. You can do this by using an online comparison tool, like the one found on Broadband.co.nz, to see your options.

Q: What equipment do I need for the fastest broadband speeds?

A: For 5G broadband, you will need a dedicated modem that uses the 5G mobile network. To get the most out of the fastest Hyperfibre plans, a specialised, multi-gig router is often required, which is typically included by the provider with those plans.

How to Choose the Best Broadband Plan for Your Needs

You're now equipped with all the information you need about broadband speeds, connection types, and top providers. Putting it all together to make a final decision is simple. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the final process to ensure you choose the perfect plan with confidence.

✅ Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Decision

Step 1: Check your address Before you do anything else, you need to know what’s available at your property. You can't get a Hyperfibre plan if the service isn't offered in your area. The easiest way to do this is by using the address checker on Broadband.co.nz. It will instantly show you which connection types—like Fibre, Hyperfibre, or 5G—are available at your home.

Step 2: Assess your needs Think about how you and your household actually use the internet. A family of five with avid gamers has very different needs than a couple who just streams movies. Ask yourself:

• How many people will be using the internet?
• What do you do online? Is it heavy gaming, 4K streaming, and working with large files, or just Browse and social media?
• How many devices are connected at once? Remember to count phones, laptops, smart TVs, tablets, and smart home gadgets.

Your answers will help you decide if a standard Fibre plan is enough or if you’d benefit from the power of Gigabit Fibre or even Hyperfibre.

Step 3: Compare plans and providers Now it’s time to find the perfect match. Use the information in this guide and the comparison tool on Broadband.co.nz to see live plans and prices side-by-side. Compare the speeds, monthly costs, and special offers from different providers to see who offers the best value for your needs.

Step 4: Read the fine print Before you sign up, take a moment to check the details to avoid any surprises later. Look for:

• Contract length: Is it a 12-month term or a flexible open-term plan?
• Hidden costs: Are there any one-off setup fees or modem postage costs?
• Promotional terms: If you're getting a half-price deal, find out what the price will be once the promotional period ends.

Step 5: Switch and enjoy! Once you've found the perfect plan, all that's left is to sign up. The switching process is surprisingly easy, as your new provider will handle most of the technical details.

That's it! You're on your way to enjoying the fast, reliable internet connection you deserve.

The Future of Fast Internet in New Zealand

The world of internet technology never stands still, and New Zealand's broadband network is constantly evolving. With the nationwide fibre rollout largely complete, the focus has now shifted to unlocking the full potential of this world-class infrastructure.

The most immediate future is the continued expansion and adoption of Hyperfibre. As our daily lives involve more data-hungry applications—from cloud gaming and virtual reality to smart homes running dozens of devices—the multi-gigabit speeds of Hyperfibre will become increasingly relevant for everyday Kiwis. The underlying technology is built to handle even faster speeds, with 10 Gbps and beyond on the horizon, ensuring our network is ready for the next decade of innovation.

At the same time, wireless technology will continue its rapid advancement. 5G networks will become stronger and more widespread, and the development of 6G is already underway globally, promising even faster speeds and lower latency for wireless connections.

Ultimately, the future of the internet is not just about raw speed, but about creating a seamless and powerful online experience. Choosing the best and fastest broadband connection for your needs today doesn't just improve your streaming and gaming—it sets you up for whatever comes next. In a world that relies on instant, reliable connectivity for work, education, and entertainment, staying connected with the best possible speed is more important than ever.

🔄 This guide is updated monthly with current pricing, promotions, and provider changes. Bookmark this page for the fastest broadband plan and comparison data.

Disclaimer: Pricing and offers subject to change. Always confirm current rates and terms with providers before signing up. Rankings based on publicly available data and may not reflect individual experiences.