Spark customers are facing yet another price increase, with the telco announcing changes to its broadband pricing effective from 1 August 2025, as part of its annual review.
One customer reported their Essential Fibre Plus plan would increase by $8 per month, after initially receiving an email in early June indicating faster speeds and no immediate price changes — only to be notified of the hike just weeks later.
* Spark Fibre Broadband plans will rise by $5/month - A $60 a year increase.
* Spark Broadband Plans that include Netflix will go up by $8/month - An increase of $96 a year.
* Business broadband plans are set to increase between $2 and $5.75/month
Not entirely — One NZ bumped up the cost of its Fibre Starter Back plan by $5/month earlier this year in February.
As of now, 2degrees, Slingshot, and Skinny have not announced any price changes for 2025.
Spark attributes the increases to rising operational costs. A spokesperson for Spark explained the price adjustment reflects:
* Increased wholesale costs to connect to New Zealand’s copper and fibre networks
* Rising charges from third-party partners like Netflix, Spotify, Neon, and McAfee Security, whose services are bundled or discounted through Spark
* Ongoing investment to ensure a reliable and high-performing network
Meanwhile, Chorus, the biggest of the wholesale infrastructure providers (or local fibre companies), confirmed they were aware of Spark’s changes but clarified that there have been no new wholesale pricing changes. “Retail pricing decisions are made independently by each provider,” a Chorus spokesperson noted.
As the cost of living continues to bite, consumers may want to re-evaluate their broadband plans — and compare options across the market to ensure they’re still getting the best value.
At Broadband Compare, our mission is to help Kiwis get the best possible deal on their broadband. With rising costs across the telecommunications industry and beyond, it’s more important than ever to take control of your expenses. Our easy-to-use broadband comparison tool empowers you to assess your current broadband plan and see if there's a better option out there. Staying informed is key to financial wellbeing—especially during a cost of living crisis. By comparing providers and plans, you can make confident, informed choices that could lead to real savings. It's also a great time to check if you're on the right fibre speed for your household—New Zealand offers a range of fibre options, each tailored to different needs and usage levels.
Jump on Broadband Compare now to get ahead of the Spark price rise, to avoid loyalty tax, and to save money to make a true difference to your budget.
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