When sending "application to person" (A2P) SMS messages in New Zealand, strict regulations require the use of a dedicated short code. This article outlines what you need to know about the requirements and the options available to ensure your messages are compliant and effective.
Important: To enhance service stability and provide more flexible options, there are important updates to how short codes work in New Zealand.
- New 5 & 6-Digit Short Codes Available - In addition to the traditional 4-digit short codes, new 5 and 6-digit options are now available. These longer codes are a more affordable way to get a dedicated number.
- Shared Short Codes Phased Out - All new and existing customers sending messages to New Zealand will need their own dedicated short code.
- Migration for Existing Customers - All existing customers currently using a shared short code will need to migrate to a dedicated 4, 5, or 6-digit code. Our customer success team will reach out to arrange this.
General operational requirements
Zero-rated and standard-rated short codes
Zero rated codes and standard rated codes are two different types of short codes used for SMS messaging. Where zero-rated codes are often referred to as 'free to end user', standard rated codes will sometimes incur a cost to the recipient, so it's important to understand the differences when considering which code you need for your business.
Key Differences
| Features | Zero Rated Codes | Standard Rated Codes |
| Inbound/Outbound Messages | 4-digit codes where the company will pay for both inbound and outbound messages. The end user will not be charged. | 4-digit codes where the end user is charged 20 cents on their telco services account. |
| Cost of Message | The business sending the message takes on the inbound and outbound charges. | Messages cost 20 cents and are charged to the recipient. |
| Marketing | If messages are for marketing purposes, short codes must be zero-rated due to opt-out compliance rules. | Messages must inform the end-user of the charge to reply to the message.** |
| Consent | End users must be given the option to opt out.* | It's essential that users are informed of the 20c charge to reply and that the end user has provided consent.** |
* When using standard rated codes, consent is required and all messages must contain content such as "reply messages cost 20 cents"
Benefits of dedicated short codes
Using a dedicated short code provides several advantages for your business and your customers.