KEY POINTS:
Telecom customers will notice an increase in the size of their phone bill with price rises to take effect in May.
Some of Telecom's monthly home-phone plans and wiring maintenance services will be slightly more expensive once inflation costs are added.
Telecom spokeswoman Rebecca Earl said the price changes came about after an annual review.
"Every year we have a review where we look at the impact of inflation on our business and rising costs."
Telecom had tried to limit the costs it passed on to consumers, with most residential customers paying about $1.50 extra a month, she said.
Residential customers would get a letter notifying them next month.
Ms Earl said there had been a "limited reaction" to the price increases, although the public notices advising of the changes were only published yesterday. "It's been a pretty limited reaction. It might be because we have tried to limit the [the amount raised]."
Telecommunications Users Association chief executive Ernie Newman said that on the face of it the rises seemed reasonable.
"We wouldn't have great concern ... the changes are manageable," he said.
Consumers Institute chief executive Sue Chetwin said it was a positive that Telecom was communicating with its customers.
"I guess they are letting people know, which is a good thing. It's been well publicised."
Ms Chetwin said she had been told the changes would not affect people on low incomes - the 60+ and BudgetLink plans were not to rise.
HITTING HOME
* Home lines in Wellington, Christchurch city +$1.05.
* All other areas +$1.25.
* Anytime in Auckland city, Wellington 04 calling region, Christchurch city and most suburbs +$1.20.
* Anytime in other areas +$1.35.
* Anytime Plus in Auckland city, Wellington 04 calling region, Christchurch city and suburbs +$1.50.
* Anytime Plus in all other areas +$1.64.
