In New Zealand, carriers don't offer two-way application-to-person (A2P) texting on ordinary mobile numbers like 021 or 022; outside short codes, it runs on 028 business messaging numbers, which are built for software to send and receive like a normal mobile. People reply to an 028 number exactly as they would to any other mobile, on every NZ network.
A2P versus P2P
Person-to-person (P2P) texting is what phones do. Application-to-person (A2P) texting is software sending and receiving: booking systems, alerts, and now AI agents. NZ carriers treat the two differently, and A2P traffic on ordinary consumer mobile numbers isn't offered.
The options for software
| Option | Two-way conversation | Looks like a mobile | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short code | Keyword replies only | No | One-way alerts, opt-in keywords |
| 028 business messaging number | Yes | Yes | Replies, bookings, codes, assistants |
| A SIM in a spare phone | Yes | Yes | Not designed for software or automated sending |
What this means for agents
An agent on Agentline texts from its own 028 number, and replies usually land back in the agent's message list within seconds. Because the number is a business messaging number, the carrier rules apply: transactional and conversational messages only, no marketing. See the UEMA and agents.
What the person on the other end sees
A text from a number starting 028, like any other mobile. They can save it as a contact and reply normally. If they reply HELP, they get an automatic message saying the number is operated by an AI agent through Agentline, and STOP opts them out. A good agent still says who it's acting for in its first message.
How long setup takes
Agentline sets up 028 numbers within a few days of signup, and emails you when yours is live. The @agentline.nz inbox works from day one, so email codes and replies don't wait for the number.
Limits worth knowing
- SMS goes to NZ mobiles (020–029) only.
- The carrier doesn't return delivery receipts, so sent messages show as "sent".
- Some services won't send verification codes to business numbers. Test first.
Common questions
Can people reply to an 028 number?
Why not put a SIM card in a spare phone?
How long does it take to get an 028 number from Agentline?
Give your agent a number
Inbox live from day one; NZ 028 number set up within a few days of signup.