Number portability introduced on 1 April means telephone users switching companies are now able to keep the same phone number.

"Number portability provides greater freedom for consumers," says Telecommunications Commissioner Douglas Webb.

"By making it easier to switch providers, number portability should increase competition and result in better services and prices," says Mr Webb.

Number portability is industry-wide, and applies to landlines and mobile phones.

The Commission worked closely with industry to meet the 1 April date, and coordinated the launch along with the Telecommunications Carriers' Forum.

Details about number portability are available on the Commission's website, under Industry Regulation > Telecommunications > Number Portability.