ADSL Broadband

ADSL stands for Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line service. It is called asymmetric because the download and upload speeds are not symmetrical (download is faster than upload).

ADSL broadband comes entirely through the copper broadband / telephone network, which isn't hugely efficient. Advertised speeds in New Zealand generally hover between 'up to 24Mbps', but you'll likely see an average of about 10Mbps download and 1Mbps upload speed.  This is plenty for emailing, surfing the web and checking social media.  But remember, the copper network was designed for carrying our voices back and forth, not for you to stream the latest episode of Game of Thrones.

Technically speaking there are  two types of ADSL Broadband services within New Zealand but these are now generally grouped simply as ADSL.  The more modern tyoe of ADSL is known as ADSL2+ whilst the original is just called ADSL.

ADSL is the most basic broadband connection available on the copper network. It delivers around 2Mbps for distances up to 6km from the local cabinet. ADSL is mostly found in rural areas where new cabinets are yet to be installed.

ADSL2+ delivers speeds of up to 10Mbps to properties located within a 2km radius from a broadband cabinet. It delivers faster speeds but its performance can be influenced by a number of factors like how far away you are from the cabinet, the devices you are using, the quality and age of your modem and your home wiring.

Compare ADSL broadband plans here.

Best Service
36

ADSL No Contract Get NO CONTRACT

from $79.95 /mo
First 12 months then 95.00/month
10Mbps 1Mbps
Unlimited data
Best Service
36

ADSL No Contract Get NO CONTRACT

Two-time award winners at the 2021 NZ Compare Awards for Best Customer Support and Provider of the Year! No strings attached – Unlimited Broadband just $79.95/month with no contract. Only available fo...
Terms and Conditions apply

Full plan details

Contract options

open term

Terms and conditions

1. This offer ends 30th June 2024

2. Only available for new residential customers only.

3. Offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

4. Adding a phoneline to any plan or offer will be an additional $10 per month.

5. Includes unlimited ADSL, VDSL and Fibre 300/100.

6. Promotion pricing is valid for 12-months only, beginning on the date which your service address is connected on the Now network. After the first 12 months, the standard plan pricing for your selected plan will apply.

7. You can use your own modem, but this must be compatible with the selected NOW network. For more information, please refer to https://www.nownz.co.nz/support/technicalsupport/router-help/use-my-router/

8. A Modem can also be purchased with a one-off charge applied to your 1st invoice, alternatively you can split the cost of the Modem into 12 instalments included on your monthly bill. Please note: $14 postage and packaging fee applies for modem delivery.

9. Payment for this offer must be made via bank or credit card direct debit each month.

Full broadband comparison

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Great Offer
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Unlimited Fibre Broadband from $70/m
Plus 6 months Prime Video free
Say whaaaaaaat!! Limited time only. 
T&Cs apply.
Unlimited Fibre Broadband from $70/m
Plus 6 months Prime Video free
Say whaaaaaaat!! Limited time only.
T&Cs apply.