Understanding Fibre Speeds and What Actually Affects Your Internet
When it comes to broadband, speed matters — but it’s not always as simple as the number on your plan.
If you’re comparing fibre deals, upgrading your plan, or wondering why your connection isn’t as snappy as expected, you’re in the right place. Here’s what really affects your internet speed — and how to get the most out of your fibre connection.
First up: What does “broadband speed” actually mean?
Your broadband speed is usually made up of two things:
Download speed — how fast you can pull things from the internet (e.g. streaming, browsing, downloading)
Upload speed — how fast you can send things to the internet (e.g. video calls, posting content, uploading files)
When you sign up for a fibre plan, it’ll usually say something like “500/100” — that means 500 Mbps download and 100 Mbps upload.
So why is your speed sometimes slower than your plan?
Good question. Here’s the thing: your internet speed depends on more than just the plan you’re on. A few key factors come into play:
🧠 1. Your Modem
Not all modems are created equal. Some older or lower-end modems might not be able to keep up with higher speeds. It’s worth checking that your modem is fibre-capable — ideally gigabit-ready.
🌐 2. Wi-Fi vs Wired Connection
If you’re using Wi-Fi, your signal can slow down depending on how far you are from the modem or how many walls it’s passing through. A wired Ethernet connection will always give you more consistent speed.
📱 3. The Number of Devices
Every connected device shares your home’s bandwidth. With fibre, there’s plenty of capacity to keep everyone online at once — whether that’s streaming, gaming, or working from home. Still, for the smoothest experience, it can help to manage big downloads or updates during quieter times.
⚙️ 4. The Websites or Apps You’re Using
Even with fast internet, you’re still limited by the speed of the site or service you’re connecting to. For example, a slow-loading website or an overseas server might bottleneck your connection.
📶 5. Peak Time Congestion
Other technologies (like copper or wireless) can slow down when lots of people in your area are online at once. Fibre is designed to handle high demand, so even at peak times you’ll enjoy a much more consistent connection.
What’s a “good” fibre speed?
It depends on how you use the internet. Here’s a quick guide:
For most Kiwi homes, a 500/100 or 900/500 fibre plan provides more than enough speed for streaming, gaming, working from home, and keeping all your devices happy.
Pro tips for getting the best performance
Use Ethernet cables where possible (especially for gaming or work setups)
Upgrade your modem/router every few years
Place your modem in a central spot (away from thick walls and metal objects)
Use mesh Wi-Fi for large or multi-level homes
Limit background downloads or automatic updates during peak times
Want faster internet?
👉 Check your address and compare deals from NZ’s top fibre providers. See what’s available at your address, and choose a plan that suits your speed needs — and your budget.