Frequently Asked Questions

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• What is 3G Broadband Extended?

  With Black + White you have network access on 2 different frequencies (2100MHz and 900Mhz). Both of these give you the same rich, super-fast, 3G experience.

  3G Broadband operates at 2100MHz
  3G Broadband Extended operates at 900MHz

  Why?
  900MHz is much better suited to rural areas where there is a larger distance between cell sites. It means that more people can get 3G coverage.

  2100MHz is ideal in urban areas where there is a smaller distance between cell sites. It allows more people to operate on the same cell site, and can manage the high traffic.

  Both 900MHz and 2100 MHz give the same experience. They have the same speed and performance.

  What does it mean to me?
  3G Broadband Extended (900MHz) capable devices have coverage in 97% of the places NZers live, work and play.

  Where it shows 3G Broadband coverage or 3G Broadband Extended on the coverage map these devices will work at Broadband speeds.

  3G Broadband (2100MHz) devices will work also work where 97% of NZers live work and play.

  However, they will only work at Broadband speeds where it shows 3G Broadband coverage on the map. Where it shows 3G Broadband Extended coverage on the map these devices will work at slower speeds.

   

• Marine Coverage

  Across many fishing and recreational boating spots across the country, boat-lovers with a Black + White service will have access to its extended 900 MHz 3G network up to 60kms from shore. In fact, in some places, Kiwis can enjoy coverage for up to 120kms from the coast - making it easier to stay in touch with friends and family while out for the day.

  Available Services while in 3G Marine Coverage

  The extension of 3G coverage means that you can enjoy more services while you're on the water. By using a 900MHz 3G phones, some of the things you can do include Calling, texting and sending MMS, surfing the net from a mobile broadband device or from your phone, visiting your favourite social networking sites or loading footage of your latest catch onto YouTube as it happens.

  Device Information

  New Zealanders wanting to make the most of extended 3G marine coverage will need a 900 MHz device. Our range of devies can be viewed by clicking here.

  2G coverage ia also available up to 60kms in many popular marine areas. Handsets that aren't 900MHz compatible will be supported by this network, and will provide users with the ability to call and text for up to 60kms from the shore.

  While we hope that the extended mobile coverage will help increase safety among boaties, we strongly advise boating and fishing enthusiasts to carry a marine radio for emergency purposes. Water Safety NZ recommends boaties carry at least two means of communication for in-shore trips and three means if travelling over two miles from shore. Water Safety NZ recommends VHF radios, flares, locator beacons and cellphones. For more information see the Water Safety NZ website.

   

• Telecom $100 account credit

  This is the perfect combination.

  - Your 027 Number

  - Use a mobile network that works, click here to check our amazing coverage.

  - A $100 Black + White Account credit.
  
  

  Note if you have a CDMA phone (Telecom’s old mobile network) you will need a new mobile but note the great discounts on handsets available to Black + White Members. This offer can not be used in conjunction with any other offer, is only available if transferring an active Telecom 027 number whether on XT or CDMA to Black + White and Black + White standard terms and conditions apply. Should you leave Black + White within 6 months of service activation or fail to activate your service within 30 days you will be charged $100 inc GST activated no later than 30 Sept 2010 or earlier time as determined at Black + White’s sole discretion.

   

• Will my current mobile work on Black + White?

  If you currently have a mobile phone working on the Vodafone NZ, Telecom XT or 2Degrees networks chances are it will work on Black + White.

  If you have a mobile from Telecom XT please be aware that when you go outside of "3G Broadband" areas, which are mainly outside the main metro areas in NZ, your handset will only connect to the 2G network as your handset runs on slightly different frequencies than our network. This will only effect mobile data/internet usage though. You will still be able to make call and send texts as normal.

  If you currently have a Telecom CDMA or TelstraClear mobile phone you will need to buy a new phone. As a Black + White member you get exclusive access to buy mobiles from us anytime at near wholesale prices. All our mobile phones come with a full manufacturer's warranty.

  If you have a Blackberry  chances are it will work on Black + White but you will need to select one of our BlackBerry BIS Options to access email.

  For the techos: GSM Dual band or better phone using the 900Mhz frequency; for 3G services you need a 3G UMTS or better phone using the 2100Mhz frequency.

• What is Black + White's coverage like?

  With Black + White you will have mobile access to around 97% of where New Zealanders live, work and play, and this is improving all the time.
  
  Click here for coverage maps of your area. Please note that coverage maps are indicative and environmental factors and network conditions may result in coverage variance.

  When roaming overseas you have access, subject to roaming being enabled, to networks in over 210 destinations. Roaming is not 'activated' as default. Please call member services on 0800 892150 or 990 to activate this feature.