travellers sim nz

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Choose the Travel eSIM plan that’s best for you

All the calls, texts and data you want.

**Included mins and TXTs are to New Zealand and these destinations.

Rather get a physical SIM?

Find a store

Data, mins and TXTs on NZ Travel SIM $29 lasts 30 days. Data, mins and TXTs on NZ Travel SIM $49, $69 and $99 lasts 60 days. Included mins and TXTs are for personal use, and to standard numbers in NZ only. Excludes premium and special numbers (e.g. no short codes or MMS/PXT). Terms apply, see NZ Travel Plan Terms and Conditions . International mins and TXTs are to standard numbers in Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Japan, Malaysia, Netherlands, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, UK and USA only. (Note: Netherlands, Taiwan and Thailand are available on NZ Travel SIM $49, $69 and $99 only). Travel SIMs for NZ use only.

Need a bit extra?

$10 for 100 minutes to NZ and selected destinations*.
Lasts 60 days from purchase.
To buy, first top up then free TXT ‘BUY EXTRAMINS’ to 756 or download the My One NZ app.
$20 for 2GB data.
To buy, first top up then free TXT ‘BUY EXTRADATA’ to 756 or download the My One NZ app.

*Selected destinations: Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Japan, Malaysia, Netherlands, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom and USA. Included mins are to standard numbers in NZ and selected destinations. For personal use only. Excludes premium and special numbers (i.e. short codes). Travel SIMs for NZ use only.

Download the My One NZ app to check your mobile usage

You can sign in to My One NZ from your desktop or register here

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NZ Travel Packs

Experience new zealand on a local mobile network.

Stay connected while you explore New Zealand. Our plans have plenty of data, texts and minutes.

Get connected with a Spark Travel Pack.

If you're planning to visit New Zealand for up to three months, make your trip that little bit easier with a Spark Travel Pack.

Travel Packs are only available in store.

Here for longer? See our range of plans and extras

Click & collect

* International calling minutes and texts can be used to call or text USA, Canada, China, Hong Kong, India, South Africa, UK, Ireland, Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Philippines, Japan, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea. See our standard rates further down this page for calls to other countries.

Texts include person-to-person messages and exclude texts to short codes and multi-media messaging, such as picture messages.

** * 100GB at maximum speeds, then speeds reduce to a maximum of 1.2Mbps. This will impact your experience.

Where to buy your NZ Travel Pack

First, check that your phone is compatible with the Spark network in New Zealand. Check phone compatibility
Purchase a Travel Pack from Spark when you arrive in New Zealand – Spark has stores at Auckland and Christchurch Airports, as well as around New Zealand. Find a store

Note: We don't ship Travel Packs overseas.

Need more data, minutes or text?

Your travel pack comes pre-loaded with a bunch of data, text and minutes but if you've got a big appetite for streaming, surfing or chatting, you can add extras to your travel pack to keep you going... and going.

Already have this SIM?

Quick top up.

Add more credit to your mobile.

Download the Spark app

Top up by credit card, debit card or voucher and check your balance in the Spark app.

Your Travel Pack comes pre-loaded with data, text and minutes, but you can add value packs and/or extras to keep you going.

Staying in New Zealand longer? Check out our range of plans and extras

How do Travel Packs work? How do Travel Packs work? How do Travel Packs work?

These Travel Packs are designed for people visiting New Zealand for a short-term visit of up to three months.

How it works:

Your Travel Pack expires three months following the date you activate it by starting to use it in New Zealand. Once it has expired you can purchase other value packs or extras, but you can't purchase another Travel Pack for your SIM.
The text, calling minutes, and data inclusions in the plan are available for three months, and do not refresh with new data, calling or text allocations during this time.
The price you pay is the total cost for all three months. It's not a monthly fee.

International minutes and texts are only available when calling and texting from within New Zealand to USA, Canada, China, Hong Kong, India, South Africa, UK, Ireland, Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Philippines, Japan, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea.

Standard casual rate charges will apply when you've used your data, text or calling minutes allowance, or after the third month. You can buy other value packs and extras to get more allowances.

See below for the standard rates.

See our range of plans and extras

Staying longer?

If you intend or need to be in New Zealand for longer than three months, we suggest you check out our Pay Monthly or Prepaid packs. You can add extras to them for international calling and texts.

What do I do if I run out of data, minutes or texts? What do I do if I run out of data, minutes or texts? What do I do if I run out of data, minutes or texts?

If you run out of data, calling minutes or texts during your three month term, you can buy other value packs or extras to get more allowances. Otherwise standard rate charges will apply. See the standard rates below.

See our value packs

See our Prepaid extras

What do I do when my three-month Travel Pack expires? What do I do when my three-month Travel Pack expires? What do I do when my three-month Travel Pack expires?

If you still need to use your mobile in New Zealand after three months when your Travel Pack expires, and you want to keep using the same SIM and number, you'll need to purchase a new Prepaid or Pay Monthly plan. You won't be able to purchase another Travel Pack for your SIM.

What are the standard rates for calls, texts and data? What are the standard rates for calls, texts and data? What are the standard rates for calls, texts and data?

Questions about endless data questions about endless data questions about endless data.

What order will my data be used in?

With the Endless Travel Pack, data is used in the following order:

100GB of full speed Endless Travel Pack data
Any other packs you've added to your SIM (data extras, Value Packs)
Speed-reduced Endless Travel Pack data, at a maximum speed of 1.2Mbps. This will impact your experience.

Can I tether / hotspot on the $129 Endless Travel Pack?

Yes, tethering is included in our $129 Endless Travel Pack.

Can I purchase more than one $129 Endless Travel Pack at a time to get more than 100GB of full speed data?

No, you can only have one Travel Pack. Based on how much data our Prepaid customers usually use, one Travel Pack should be enough for most people while they are here in New Zealand.

If you run out of data before your Travel Pack expires, you can add one of our other extras or Prepaid value packs.

See our Prepaid value packs

I’ve used all 100GB of full speed data in my Endless Travel Pack, and have now purchased more data. Why are my speeds still slowed down?

Sometimes you won't get high speeds back immediately. To speed things up, try one of the following to refresh your connection to our network:

Turn on your phone's Airplane mode or Flight mode. Wait a few seconds, then turn Airplane or Flight mode off again.
Power off your phone and power it back on again.

Our General Terms and Mobile and Wireless Terms apply Our General Terms and Mobile and Wireless Terms apply Our General Terms and Mobile and Wireless Terms apply

Read General terms

Read Mobile and Wireless Terms

Other terms and conditions Other terms and conditions Other terms and conditions

Unlimited text is for standard person-to-person texts to standard New Zealand numbers. This excludes premium and special numbers, such as 018 or short codes, where you will be charged at the price set by the provider of these services.
Multiple simultaneous calling
Call centre usage
Telemarketing
Bulk messaging
Application-to-person communication
Continuously call forwarding
Auto-dialling
Machine-to-machine communication (including by using your SIM card in any other device)
Cellular Trunking Units (CTUs)
Any other activity that Spark considers to be non-standard personal usage.

New Zealand SIM Card: What You Need To Know

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Apr 1, 2024 | New Zealand , Oceania , SIM Cards , Travel Tips

Visiting New Zealand soon? Learn how to purchase a New Zealand SIM card .

In this guide, we’ll explain where to buy a SIM card for New Zealand in person and online. We’ll also discuss prepaid travel SIM cards and eSIMs if your mobile supports them.

Before you read this guide, you may wonder if you actually need a SIM card in New Zealand.

If you don’t mind not having Internet, you’ll likely find free Wifi in restaurants, shopping malls, and hotels.

That said, if you need data to get around, call a cab, or translate English – you may want to get a SIM card for your travels in New Zealand.

Best New Zealand Travel SIM Cards

If you’re traveling in New Zealand, we recommend using a SIM card from Vodafone, Spark, 2degrees, or Airalo.

I’ll get back to Airalo later on, so keep reading to learn more!

That said, if you plan on visiting other countries during your trip to Oceania, you might want to pick an option offering coverage in other Oceanian countries.

Where To Buy A SIM Card In New Zealand

You can buy a New Zealand prepaid SIM card in person in some international airports, mobile provider stores, convenience stores, or online.

Usually, you can expect higher costs and low data offers at the airport, so we don’t recommend buying a SIM card at the airport.

That said, you won’t necessarily find SIM card shops in every airport, so it’s essential to keep this in mind. And, when you see a shop, you might also have limited options.

For this reason, I’d recommend buying a SIM card directly from the mobile provider store. Note that you may need your passport to buy one.

Although, this means you won’t get data right upon your arrival. So, if you prefer to be connected at all times, you could use an eSIM or purchase an Oceanian prepaid SIM card online.

Now, let’s take a look at the data plans offered by Vodafone, Spark, and 2degrees.

Vodafone SIM Cards

Vodafone offers three different types of tourist plans:

2 GB, valid for 30 days for NZD 29 ($16.86)
10 GB, valid for 60 days for NZD 49 ($28.49)
40 GB, valid for 60 days for NZD 69 ($40.12)

Spark SIM Cards

Spark has four different prepaid plans available:

2 GB, valid for 90 days for NZD 29 ($16.86)
10 GB, valid for 90 days for NZD 49 ($28.49)
50 GB, valid for 90 days for NZD 79 ($45.93)
Unlimited data, valid for 90 days for NZD 129 ($75)

2degrees SIM Cards

2degrees offers several main SIM-only plans for tourists:

1.25 GB, valid for 30 days for NZD 19 ($11.05)
2.5 GB, valid for 30 days for NZD 30 ($17.44)
4 GB, valid for 30 days for NZD 40 ($23.26)
10 GB, valid for 30 days for NZD 55 ($31.98)
25 GB, valid for 30 days for NZD 70 ($40.70)
40 GB, valid for 30 days for NZD 70 ($49.42)

Overall, we think Vodafone is the best option if you plan to buy your SIM card in person.

That said, any would do if you can’t find their store!

How To Buy A New Zealand Prepaid SIM Card Online

If you wish to have your SIM card ready for your arrival, you could purchase it online or on websites like Amazon.

You’ll find different SIM cards for New Zealand on Amazon. For example, the OneSimCard works in more than 200+ countries and gives you data for $0.01 per MB. New Zealand is included.

But there are many other options worth considering, so look and make sure the countries you plan to visit are listed.

Browse your options on Amazon

Another option is to purchase a prepaid Oceanian SIM card on SimOptions .

They currently offer two packages that cover New Zealand:

10 GB, valid for 30 days for $24.90
10 GB, valid for 14 days for $49.90

Browse your options on SimOptions

Finally, the last option is to buy a New Zealand eSIM card or, if you’re traveling to multiple countries, an eSIM plan for Oceania.

How To Buy A New Zealand eSIM Card

eSIM is a new concept that allows you to have a virtual SIM card inside your phone.

If your mobile phone supports eSIM cards – it’s definitely one of the best options to get data in New Zealand.

Curious? Learn more about eSIMs for travelers on eSIM Roamers .

I started using eSIM as soon as my mobile phone supported it. To buy eSIMs, I usually use Airalo , one of the best eSIM providers for international travel .

Keep reading to learn more about the best eSIMs for New Zealand.

Airalo ESIM New Zealand

If you want a New Zealand eSIM, you could purchase one on Airalo .

This website offers many eSIM cards worldwide and special plans for Oceania and New Zealand.

I’ve been using Airalo for several months, and it works fine. Learn more by reading our Airalo review .

Here are the options available :

Nzcom: 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $4.50
Nzcom: 2 GB, valid for 15 days for $8.50
Nzcom: 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $11
Nzcom: 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $16
Nzcom: 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $27
Nzcom: 20 GB, valid for 30 days for $44

Alternatively, if you’re traveling in other countries, Discover Global offers coverage in 85 countries, including New Zealand.

Here’s an overview of the options available on Discover Global :

1 GB, valid for 7 days for $9
3 GB, valid for 15 days for $24
5 GB, valid for 30 days for $35
10 GB, valid for 60 days for $59
20 GB, valid for 180 days for $89

Now, one important thing to note about Airalo is that you’ll need to keep an eye out for the provider in each country.

Suppose you ever have trouble connecting to the Internet during your trip.

In that case, it might be because you’re connecting automatically to networks and must select a network manually instead.

When you purchase the eSIM, you’ll get access to the list of networks supported in each country.

Go to Airalo

Nomad ESIM New Zealand

Finally, Nomad is also a great eSIM provider. You can learn more by reading our Nomad eSIM review .

Here’s an overview of the plans available for New Zealand:

1GB, valid for 7 days for $4
3GB, valid for 30 days for $13
5GB, valid for 30 days for $15
10GB, valid for 30 days for $19
15GB, valid for 30 days for $25
20GB, valid for 30 days for $34
30GB, valid for 30 days for $60
40GB, valid for 30 days for $75
50GB, valid for 30 days for $90
100GB, valid for 60 days for $170

Nomad offers a plan for Oceania that works in 8 countries, including New Zealand.

Here’s an overview of the SEA-Oceania plans available:

1GB, valid for 7 days for $6
3GB, valid for 15 days for $11
5GB, valid for 30 days for $14
10GB, valid for 30 days for $25
20GB, valid for 30 days for $35

Finally, Nomad also has Global , an eSIM plan for 111 countries worldwide. This plan offers coverage in New Zealand.

Here’s an overview of the options available:

1GB, valid for 7 days for $20
3GB, valid for 30 days for $38
5GB, valid for 30 days for $54

Go to Nomad

Final Thoughts On SIM Cards In New Zealand

As you can see, getting a prepaid SIM card in New Zealand or even an eSIM for your travels in New Zealand is pretty straightforward.

You’ll even be able to stay connected wherever you go in Oceania without changing your SIM card, especially if you purchase an Oceania or global plan.

I believe the eSIM card is the most convenient way to get data in New Zealand if you wish to have data upon your arrival.

This way, you won’t need to go to a store to buy a SIM card.

However, you need to make sure your mobile phone supports eSIM first.

Traveling to New Zealand soon? Read one of the following blog posts:

Best place to live in New Zealand
Backpacking New Zealand on a budget
Samoa SIM card

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Travel Sims

Best Tourist Sim Cards in New Zealand in 2024

If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, having a reliable sim card is essential. With access to the internet, exploring new cities becomes a breeze. From finding top-notch restaurants to navigating your way to your accommodation, booking taxis, and sharing pictures with your loved ones, staying connected on the go is a must.

While roaming is an option, the hefty fees can quickly accumulate when traveling internationally. It’s always advisable to opt for an eSIM or a local sim card to enjoy local phone rates. Luckily, acquiring either of these options in New Zealand is incredibly simple.

This comprehensive guide provides you with all the information you need to know about purchasing a sim card in New Zealand, including updated pricing and the best sim card options for your needs.

Best sim card in new zealand for tourists.

There are three mobile networks in New Zealand: 2degrees, Vodafone and Spark. In terms of coverage and reliability, all three networks are fairly similar.

The best sim card in New Zealand is the Airalo NZ eSim . This eSim runs on the reliable One NZ network (recently rebranded from Vodafone) and allows you to choose the amount of data you need and at a similar price to the local sim cards. For just $25 NZD you can get 5GB of data, or for $43 NZD you get 10GB, however, you sacrifice the unlimited calls and texts.

Considering eSims are unquestionably the most convenient and efficient sim cards I consider this tradeoff more than worth it.

If you require the minutes or texts, or your phone isn’t eSim compatible (most phones, including all iPhones since 2018, work perfectly with eSims), then I recommend the 2degrees prepaid sim card .

All three providers offer similar packages, but 2degrees offers 30 days validity instead of just 28 days. I’ve used all three mobile operators in New Zealand and my experience with 2degrees has been the best.

New Zealand Sim Card Prices

A Tourist Sim Card in New Zealand costs between $25 NZD and $43 NZD in April 2024, however, the exact price will often depend on the store you visit and the plan you choose.

Alternatively, an eSim in New Zealand will cost between $4.50 USD and $44 USD. This, again, depends on how much data you require and which eSim provider you choose.

I generally recommend this Airalo plan for most tourists visiting New Zealand which includes 5GB of data which is valid for 30 days and costs $16 USD.

New Zealand Sim Card Providers

In New Zealand, there are two major SIM card providers that dominate the market – 2degrees and Spark. 2degrees, formerly known as Vodafone, offers a wide range of mobile services with competitive plans and deals. They provide reliable coverage across the country and have gained a strong customer base for their excellent customer service. On the other hand, Spark is another leading provider known for its extensive network coverage, including rural areas. They offer various plans tailored to different needs and provide options for both prepaid and postpaid users. Both 2degrees and Spark continually invest in improving their networks and expanding their coverage to ensure a seamless mobile experience for their customers.

2degrees Tourist Sim

2degrees is a telecommunications company in New Zealand offering tourist sim cards to travelers. Their sim cards provide affordable and reliable mobile services across the country. With 2degrees, tourists can stay connected with high-speed internet, make local and international calls, and send text messages at competitive rates. The company ensures tourists have a seamless experience with convenient top-up options and extensive network coverage throughout New Zealand. Enjoy your trip and stay connected with 2degrees’ tourist sim cards.

2degrees New Zealand Tourist Sim Price

The price of a 2degrees tourist sim card in New Zealand is $45 NZD.

The plan offered by 2degrees stores includes 8GB data + unlimited calls & texts valid for 1 month.

One (formerly Vodafone) Tourist Sim

One (formerly Vodafone) offers reliable and affordable tourist SIM cards in New Zealand. These SIM cards provide unlimited data, calls, and texts, making it easier for travelers to stay connected. With fast network coverage across the country, exploring New Zealand is hassle-free. One’s user-friendly app allows easy top-ups and provides access to exclusive deals and rewards. Stay connected with One’s tourist SIM cards and enjoy your trip to the fullest.

One (formerly Vodafone) New Zealand Tourist Sim Price

The price of a One (formerly Vodafone) tourist sim card in New Zealand is $40 NZD.

The plan offered by One (formerly Vodafone) stores offers 8GB + 100 minutes + 100 texts valid for 28 days.

Spark Tourist Sim

Spark is a leading telecommunications company in New Zealand that offers tourist sim cards. These sim cards are designed specifically for travelers visiting New Zealand, providing them with seamless connectivity during their stay. With Spark’s tourist sim cards, travelers can enjoy unlimited local calls and texts, as well as generous data allowances to stay connected and share their adventures online. Stay connected with Spark’s reliable network while exploring the stunning landscapes and vibrant cityscapes of New Zealand.

Spark New Zealand Tourist Sim Price

The price of a Spark tourist sim card in New Zealand is $40 NZD.

The plan offered by Spark stores includes 4.5GB data valid for 28 days.

How to Get a Sim Card in New Zealand

Identify mobile providers: 2degrees, One (formerly Vodafone) and Spark are your best options in New Zealand.

Find your nearest store: Locate a store or retailer by searching on Google Maps for your nearest store or asking at your hotel reception. I’ve never had issues finding a store as they can usually be found in major cities, shopping centers, or tourist areas. If possible, I always recommend to to avoid airports and head in to an official store in the city.

Bring the necessary documents: It is always a good idea to carry your passport or identification documents for sim card registration purposes. We’ve found most providers will need to confirm your identity to provide a sim card and it can be a major hassle to head to a store only to have to come back again later with your passport.

Choose your plan: Either request the plan you are after or consult with the staff in the store to select the right plan for you. My recommendations at the beginning of this guide are a good starting point, but the staff will usually be able to suggest the best option.

Pay and activate your card: Pay for the SIM card and plan, and the staff will activate it for you.

Test: It’s always a good idea to check that you can access the internet before you leave the store. I always search for something on Google then refresh my Instagram feed to check it’s working fine.

Where to Get a Sim Card in New Zealand

At the airport.

Buying a prepaid sim card for New Zealand at the airport is usually considered the most convenient option for travellers arriving by plane.

However, airport stores selling sim cards are almost guaranteed to charge inflated prices, so if you are a cost-conscious traveller then you should definitely buy your sim card from a store in the city center.

In addition to this, we would argue that buying physical sim cards at all aren’t particularly convenient now that most people use esim compatible phones. If you are looking for the most convenient option, then buying an esim before you arrive or with the airport wifi is much easier and will save you having to queue up or communicate with staff.

If you must purchase a sim card at the airport in New Zealand then you will be in luck. All major international airports in New Zealand have stores selling sim cards. Despite the prices being higher than normal, the staff are knowledgable and will be able to get you set up with the correct sim card relatively quickly.

If you want to avoid the inflated sim card prices you’ll find at the airport and your phone isn’t esim compatible, then you’re going to need to head in to a store to buy your sim card.

I recommend visiting one of the official retail stores of the mobile internet operators such as 2degrees, One (formerly Vodafone) and Spark. Your best option is to enter their names into Google Maps and find the branch closest to your hotel or accommodation. Typically the staff in the official stores in New Zealand are knowledgable and helpful which means you can ensure you’ll walk away with a functioning sim card.

Despite this, it’s always a good idea to check your internet is working before you leave the store by loading a Google search results page and your preferred social media app. You should also ensure you always bring your passport with you when purchasing a sim card in case they need to register it.

If you like to be prepared and would prefer to arrive in New Zealand with your sim card all sorted and your phone ready to connect to the internet immediately then you should look into purchasing a sim card online.

The first option is to buy your sim card in advance via SimOptions, which is a company that will prepare and ship a sim card directly to your door. It’s a reliable and effective service, but with the invention of eSims it’s becoming obsolete.

The better option is to purchase an eSim online. We’ve written more on that below!

New Zealand eSim

An eSim is a digital version of a traditional sim card and is most likely the future of connectivity for mobile devices. The convenience of no longer visiting a store, handing over your passport and purchasing a physical sim card is quickly making physical sim cards obsolete in favour of eSims.

We recommend Airalo’s eSim when travelling to New Zealand. The Airalo New Zealand eSim offers fast internet speeds, wide coverage and extremely competitive prices making it a far more compelling option than purchasing a physical sim card from any of the local sim card providers.

In order to get set up with an Airalo eSim , all you need to do is visit Airalo here and purchase the eSim online (the $16 USD plan is suitable for most travellers). Once you’ve purchased the sim card Airalo will email you instructions and a QR code. Following these instructions should take just a couple of minutes, then you’ll have a sim card in New Zealand without having to venture outside.

Airalo New Zealand

Our preferred eSim provider in New Zealand is Airalo . We used them, alongside a local sim card on another device, for our most recent trip to New Zealand and found the service to be equal to the local sim card but without the hassle of acquiring a sim card in a store.

Airalo’s New Zealand eSim uses the One NZ to provide data and connect users to the internet. You can expect very good coverage and reliability with the One NZnetwork as they are amongst the best mobile internet operators in New Zealand.

Here are the plans and prices for Airalo’s New Zealand eSim:

1GB data valid for 7 days – Price: $4.50 USD 2GB data valid for 15 days – Price: $8.50 USD 3GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $11 USD 5GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $16 USD 10GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $27 USD 20GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $44 USD

For most travellers we recommend the 5GB data plan for $16 USD which is valid for 30 days. Some travellers may prefer a larger plan, whilst travellers visiting for just a couple of days may be fine with a smaller plan.

Holafly New Zealand

An alternative eSim provider we can recommend is Holafly.

Holafly’s eSim is a suitable option for travellers who require large amounts of data, such as digital nomads and people who work online while they travel. All of Holafly’s New Zealand eSims offer unlimited data.

Holafly’s New Zealand eSim uses the Vodafone/NZC/Sparknetwork to provide data and connect users to the internet. This network will provide reliable speeds and coverage while in New Zealand

Here are the plans and prices for Holafly’s New Zealand eSim:

10GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $34 USD 20GB data valid for 30 days – Price: $44 USD

What is an eSim?

An eSIM, also known as an embedded SIM, is a type of digital SIM card that is built directly into a device, like a smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch. Unlike traditional SIM cards, an eSIM doesn’t require a physical card to be inserted or removed from the device.

Instead, the eSIM is seamlessly integrated into the hardware of the device and can be remotely activated and programmed by a mobile network operator. This allows users to switch between different mobile networks or plans without the need to physically swap SIM cards.

The utilization of eSIM technology offers numerous benefits, including convenience, flexibility, and user-friendliness. This is particularly advantageous for individuals who frequently change mobile networks or travel internationally. With eSIMs, there’s no longer a necessity to purchase and insert physical SIM cards, making it much more convenient to manage multiple mobile connections on a single device.

Activating an eSIM involves either scanning a QR code provided by the mobile network operator or manually entering the activation details. Once the eSIM is activated, the device can connect to the selected mobile network and access voice, data, and messaging services, just like with a traditional SIM card.

Why Use an eSim?

There are a variety of reasons why using an eSIM can be beneficial. Firstly, it offers convenience as there is no need to physically insert or remove a SIM card when switching between mobile networks or plans. This is particularly advantageous for frequent travelers who may need to switch networks or use local SIM cards in different countries.

Additionally, eSIM enables dual SIM functionality, allowing two active mobile numbers on the same device. This is useful for keeping personal and work numbers separate or managing multiple phone lines.

Furthermore, eSIMs save space within the device as they are embedded, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card slot. This allows manufacturers to make smaller devices or utilize the spare space for other components.

With eSIMs, activation and management of mobile plans can be done remotely over the air. This means that activation or switching to a new plan can be done without a physical SIM card or the need to visit a store. This grants greater flexibility and convenience in managing your mobile connectivity.

Moreover, using an eSIM-compatible device ensures future-proofing as more mobile networks and service providers offer support for eSIMs. This allows users to take advantage of new services and offerings as they become available.

Overall, eSIM technology provides flexibility, convenience, and future-proofing for mobile connectivity, making it an appealing choice for many users.

eSim Supported Phones

eSIM technology is becoming increasingly popular and is supported by a growing number of smartphones and other devices. Here are some examples of eSIM-compatible phones:

Apple iPhone series (iPhone 11, iPhone 12, iPhone 13, etc.): Apple was one of the early adopters of eSIM technology and offers support for eSIM on various iPhone models.

Google Pixel series (Pixel 3, Pixel 4, Pixel 5, etc.): Google’s Pixel smartphones also support eSIM functionality, allowing users to activate and use eSIMs.

Samsung Galaxy series (Galaxy S22, Galaxy Note 20, etc.): Many of Samsung’s flagship devices now come with eSIM support, enabling users to utilize eSIM technology.

OnePlus devices (OnePlus 7, OnePlus 8, etc.): OnePlus has included eSIM support in some of its smartphone models, offering users the flexibility of using eSIMs.

Motorola Razr (2020): The latest iteration of the iconic Motorola Razr features eSIM compatibility, enabling users to use eSIMs for cellular connectivity.

These are just a few examples, and the list of eSIM-compatible phones continues to expand as more manufacturers embrace this technology. There’s a very strong chance your phone supports eSims so if you’re unsure we recommend looking it up on our list of eSim supported phones .

How to Use an eSim

Using an eSim is new for many travellers, however, the good news is it’s surprisingly easy to get set up – even for the technologically challenged!

Here’s a general guide on how to use an eSIM:

Check eSIM Compatibility: Ensure that your device supports eSIM functionality. Many newer smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, and other devices are eSIM compatible including all iPhones produced since 2018.

Obtain an eSIM: There are multiple ways to acquire an eSIM. You can purchase an eSIM online from a provider like Airalo (which we recommend) or directly from a mobile network operator. Some devices also allow you to scan a QR code provided by your carrier to download the eSIM profile.

Activate the eSIM: Your eSim provider will send you instructions to activate the sim. This will usually involve scanning a QR code, entering an activation code, or downloading the eSIM profile directly onto your device.

Set up the eSIM: Once activated, your device will guide you through the eSIM setup process. This typically involves selecting the eSIM as your preferred mobile plan, configuring settings like data roaming, and entering any necessary authentication details.

Enjoy the Connection: Once the eSIM is set up, you can use it as you would with a physical SIM card. Make calls, send messages, browse the internet, and use data services as needed. You can also switch between eSIM profiles if you have multiple eSIMs installed on your device.

Hi, I’m Mitchell. I’m a full-time traveller, explorer and travel blogger. I've travelled all around the world, using and testing countless travel sim cards along the way. I'm the founder of and writer for Travel Sim Expert where I write guides to help travellers stay connected all around the world.

Hi, I’m Mitchell. I’m a full-time traveller, explorer and travel blogger. Travel Sim Expert is a blog dedicated to helping you find the best sim card for you, no matter where you are or what your budget is.

Learn More About Me

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THE BEST NEW ZEALAND SIM CARD FOR TRAVELLERS

by Jub | Jun 2, 2023

Choosing the best sim card for travelling New Zealand is a problem most arrivals will need to solve.

Hopefully, this post convinces you why, in my opinion, there’s an obvious sim card provider in NZ you should use ( Click here to go straight to the answer).

My opinion (I really want to say fact) is based on:

Going through the process myself and regularly assessing all options.
Asking dozens of travellers in New Zealand what sim card they are using.

Ultimately, the cost of your sim card won’t add more than $1-2 to your daily budget (in theory) on average, but no one likes getting ripped off when it comes to sim cards.

The amount of people who are frustrated by buying sim cards at airports is incredible, me included.

A lot of the world has sim cards for travellers with lots of data at a good price. Unfortunately, New Zealand does not.

It’s improving with companies like Skinny and 2 Degrees entering the market, but there’s still room for improvement when considering the best sim only plans in New Zealand.

1. The Best Sim Card For NZ Travel 2. Why Skinny Is The Best 3. Other Things To Consider When Buying A Sim 4. Where To Buy A Skinny Sim Card 5. The Best Prepaid Plan To Buy 6. A Skinny Promo Code 7. Mobile Coverage For Skinny Mobile 8. A Quick Chat About New Zealand Wifi

man holding the packet of a skinny sim card

THE BEST SIM CARD FOR TRAVELLING NEW ZEALAND

SKINNY MOBILE is the best sim card in New Zealand for travellers (and residents).

You can get 4GB of rollover data for free (one time only) by using the code: NBLTK5M when you sign up (I give more details about this promo code here ).

Keep reading on as I’ll tell you how to use the Skinny mobile phone plans

THE MAIN SIM CARD PROVIDERS

First, I’ll introduce you to Skinny’s competitors who you may want to research deeper for yourself.

1. 2 Degrees 2. Vodafone 3. Spark

And now, back to telling you what you need to know about Skinny.

p.s. Do not buy Skinny’s NZ Travel Sim. You’re better off getting the regular mobile plans.

3 REASONS WHY SKINNY MOBILE IS THE BEST SIM CARD

Cheapest: When comparing Skinny plans side by side to similar offerings from their competitors, Skinny is the front runner.
Easy To Set Up: Once you’ve bought your sim card (no contract required), insert it into your phone, and get activated by dialing 222.
Functional App: I’ll chat more about this below, but it’s user-friendly on both Android & Apple .

RELATED READ: THE BEST APPS TO DOWNLOAD FOR TRAVELLING NEW ZEALAND

Back to the top

CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE BEST PREPAID SIM CARDS FOR TRAVELS TO NEW ZEALAND

to support the best sim card in new zealand article

Your friends and family will want you to send those selfies…maybe.

You’ll need some calling minutes as part of your new zealand mobile plans for tourist purposes. This is important, especially on a road trip, if you get in an emergency situation, a phone call is always best. I often find I’m ringing places in advance to make sure they’re open too.
Is your phone compatible with Skinny? In all likelihood, it will be, but you can check your phone will work here .

WHERE CAN I BUY A SKINNY SIM CARD

You can buy one online in advance, but that’s not ideal (is it me, or does getting a sim card sent by mail just seem weird?)

So before arriving in New Zealand, make sure you know how you’re getting to your first destination (NZ airports usually have wifi now).

Here are some useful links that’ll help you get from :

Getting from Auckland Airport to the city
Getting from Wellington Airport to the city
Getting from Christchurch Airport to the city
Getting from Queenstown Airport to the city

Skinny sim cards are available at lots of retailers, including major NZ supermarkets and lots of dairies. You can see a full list of the dairies in the map below. The map is created by Skinny but rarely updated so don’t put all your eggs in one basket etc.

Note: You don’t need a specific sim card as each packet contains a sim card to fit all sim card slots. You can also buy a top-up voucher to load up your credit. Alternatively, wait until you get on WiFi so you can top up via the app or by dialing 222.

WHICH SKINNY COMBO SHOULD YOU BUY?

Staying one week or less? You’ll most likely be looking to spend minimal time on your phone to appreciate the country. Therefore, you can get away with the lone weekly plan option. It’s only $5 and gets you 60 NZ minutes, 750 NZ tests, and 100 MB data.

If you’re confident you don’t need much data (or you can survive on wifi) this is all you need. Make sure to download maps, bookings, etc. before you arrive (or take screenshots).

For everyone else, you’ll need to consider what 4-weekly (28 days) plan to purchase. There is a strategy for this. If you like maximising your value, you’ll appreciate this.

Given you’re reading this article, I’m assuming you haven’t bought your sim card yet. But, if you plan to get one after reading this, then you need to consider how much credit you’re going to start with. I recommend only topping up the bare minimum to cover your plan for one month.

Why top up the bare minimum? Because the 4-week plans all rollover. That means you’ll automatically be charged the amount of your plan the following month assuming you have enough funds in your account (or if you’ve synced your credit card).

And honestly, unless you’re watching tonnes of videos (or uploading lots of videos/photos) you shouldn’t blow out your predicted amount of data. This means you’ll have extra data the following month and might be able to buy a cheaper plan in the second month.

I’ll explain more below, but first, here are the 28-day rollover plans and what you get (it’s important to note that the $40, $50, and $70 all have endless data) .

Skinny Mobile 28-Day Rollover Plans…as of February 2023 ( source )

Note: There’s a 28-day $9 option (non-rollover), but you can disregard this.

WHAT I RECOMMEND DOING

Purchase a rollover plan (based on your budget and how much data you think you’ll use) then cancel the plan straight after you purchase it.

Skinny Mobile plans renew automatically after 28 days which can be frustrating if you’ve got a tonne of data leftover and suddenly with the new data added you could give it away like candy.

The reason you cancel your plan is so you can evaluate how much data you’ve gone through at the end of the month. From there you can buy a cheaper rollover plan the following month if need be.

The reason for topping up the exact amount is because once your 28 days expires, you’ll start chewing through ‘regular’ data, calls, and minutes and any excess credit you have will be gone within hours (20 cents per MB will do that).

DATA BINGE DETAILS:

$5 for 12 hours of unlimited data.
$3 for 4 hours of unlimited data.
$1 for 1 hour of unlimited data.
$0.50 for 10 minutes of unlimited data.

What I now do in 2023: I get the $40 plan each month. That means I get 5 GB of data at max speeds, but the data is endless. After the first 5 GB is used up you go back to a throttled speed. I find this is usually good enough for my on the go needs (including watching videos and hotspotting to my laptop). I’ll just make sure to download any larger files before hand.

You’ll often get weekends where they’ll give you unlimited data free weekends as well which is always nice.

If you use the coupon code below you could start off your first month with the $17 plan if you’re not a big data consumer and think 5.25 GB of data will be enough (1.25 GB + 4 GB).

SKINNY PROMO CODE

If you buy a 4-weekly roller plan with Skinny, you can get 4GB of rollover data for free (one time only) by using the code:

this code is valid until the end of 2023.

Where to insert the code? On the Skinny Mobile app, insert NBLTK5M under Buddy Rewards in the menu.

The Fine Print: You nee to buy a $17 or above 4-weekly plan.. You also must use the code within 30 days of activating the sim card. If you use the code, I get $10 Skinny credit.

If you’ve got a friend in New Zealand who has a Skinny sim card, ask if they have a buddy code you can use (not everyone gets one). They’ll appreciate the $10 credit I bet. So whether you use my code or someone else’s, it doesn’t bother me. If you use mine, email me [email protected] so I can say thanks!

WHAT’S SKINNY’S COVERAGE LIKE?

As you can tell, New Zealander’s tend to live near the coast.

In the confusing world of telecommunications, Skinny Mobile is on the Spark Network, therefore there’s coverage in 97% of the places Kiwis live and work. That’s not always going to be 4G/5G so don’t expect insane speeds at all times, but for most of you, that’ll be ok.

And note, that’s where Kiwis live and work…there are going to be lots of remote areas where you won’t get any coverage where no one works and/or lives.

NEW ZEALAND WIFI…

It’s improving, just like New Zealand phone plans. In most households, it’s good as gold but unfortunately, in cafes and restaurants, it’s not always available. And if it is, you’ll often be given a time and/or data restriction.

The same goes for your accommodation, though more of these are now providing unlimited use.

Libraries are a golden source of wifi. They’re free but remember the general public uses them so don’t park up there all day and be respectful.

And that brings us to the end of this post. I hope this helps you confirm what is the best New Zealand travel sim provider for you.

If not, let me know (or if you’ve got any questions), email [email protected] or drop in the comments what you believe is the best NZ sim card for travellers.

Now you can back to the top or, you can read 230 things to do in New Zealand .

Hey, it’s Jub here. I’m the guy behind Chur New Zealand, helping you have the best time hiking, trekking, walking…whatever you want to call it…in NZ. I’m based in Queenstown and am always out and about exploring trails, old & new. If you have any questions, reach out.

Making memories shouldn’t have a data limit

That’s why we created a NZ travel SIM with unlimited* max speed data, minutes and texts.

cartoon kiwi bird on a beach next to a mountain on a blue background

Unlimited Travel SIM

Welcome to New Zealand. Whether you’re here from across the ditch or across oceans, let’s set you up with the one must-have (besides sunscreen) - a travel SIM card. Ours comes with unlimited* data, calls and texts to NZ and Aussie numbers within NZ. So whether you’re scrolling the ‘gram or on FaceTime with gran, never run out of data while making memories.

1. Get your Unlimited Travel SIM

2. Add usage days to suit your suit your trip

3. Buy more days if you need

*Fair use policy applies. Hotspotting speeds may be reduced during periods of network congestion. Day based on a 24 hour period from time of purchase. Days in multiple day packs run consecutively and cannot be placed on hold. Days that have been purchased cannot be refunded. Free Data Hour excluded. Unlimited mins/texts/data: Standard NZ and Aussie mins and person to person text, excl. premium rate numbers (eg short codes). Calls rounded up to the next minute. Calls and texts to Norfolk Island and Australian Antarctic Territory are excluded. NZ data usage only. Excludes any casual usage including International roaming, International calling, picture messages & video calls Click here for full T&Cs .

"I'm off the plane. Where do I get my travel SIM?"

Our Unlimited Travel SIM is available at select airports, popular tourist destinations and 2degrees retail stores (excluding Partner Stores).

"I'm here for a week. How many GB's of data will I need?"

You’re on holiday, so let’s skip the math. Our Unlimited Travel SIM has one upfront cost based on the duration of your stay.

"My trip's been extended, but I still need data. What now?"

No sweat. Just add more days to your current plan to tide you over.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can order this from our partner with free delivery worldwide or find one at select airports, popular tourist destinations and 2degrees retail stores

Yes! Unlimited data means you’ll always have access to data at max speeds. Fair usage applies.

Sure can! You can talk the ears off anyone with a standard NZ or Aussie number from within NZ.

No. The most we offer as a single purchase is 30 days, but you can buy as many days as you like.

Our Unlimited Travel SIM is for visitors only, so it won’t be possible to transfer your number to one of our Prepay plans. However, if you want to get an additional Prepay SIM, you’re welcome to walk into your nearest 2degrees store, grab a new SIM and choose a Prepay plan to go with it.

Yes, you can hold on to your SIM. Your SIM won’t work outside NZ once you leave but we’ll keep your plan and your number active for up to 12 months and ready for you to use if you do decide to come back.

Simple, just scan the QR code on your SIM pack or visit travelsim.2degrees.nz and purchase the days you need using your credit card. You may need to toggle flight mode on and off to get started.

Yes, it’s easy. Simply visit travelsim.2degrees.nz

Yes! However, if you go too far out into the bush (where we don’t have mobile towers) you might experience a loss of coverage.

No, our Unlimited Travel SIM only works in New Zealand.

Absolutely. Because you have unlimited max speed data, you can hotspot and tether without worrying about running out of data.

The Unlimited Travel SIM is a multi sim that can suit different SIM types including Micro, Multi and Nano.

A local NZ phone number will be provided to you on your SIM packaging. We will also text this number to you when you first connect to our network.

Try toggling flight mode on and off and that should help sort things out.

Add the days you need to your SIM

Latest device deals

For 36 months Interest Free on a $40 and above Pay Monthly plan (Pay today $49)

Score a chance to go to the UEFA Champions League final

For 36 months Interest Free on a $35 and above Pay Monthly plan (Pay today $29)

Bonus OPPO Tablet worth $399

Find a store

Online help

Network status

New Zealand: Best Prepaid Sim Cards For Travel

Ready to head to New Zealand and need to buy a SIM card when you land?

There are lots of prepaid SIM card options in New Zealand but figuring out which one is best for your trip is not always easy.

Below we will look at the top New Zealand sim cards for travelers, how much they cost, where to buy them, how to activate them, and more. Just scroll down to find the best sim card for you…

Buy A SIM Before You Go

If you want to avoid the hassle of shopping for a SIM card in New Zealand when you land, you can get one before you leave.

Personally, I no longer get SIM cards, I just go straight for the online option of buying an ESIM for New Zealand . It’s usually cheaper, if not just easier and you can do it on the fly, even once you land.

There are also two worthwhile options available in my experience with SIM cards:

SIMOptions – 10GB from Three
SIMCorner – 10GB for 60 days

Best Prepaid SIM Cards for New Zealand

Spark prepaid sim card.

Spark is one of the largest local mobile phone providers in New Zealand and therefore, with a Spark NZ sim card, you will have reliable coverage and fast data speeds all around New Zealand.

Spark has four New Zealand travel sim cards for you to choose from and they are quite affordable. Each of their plans also lasts 3 months so you can slowly burn through the data, calls, and minutes at your own pace while traveling around.

Spark New Zealand Prepaid SIM Card Options

Spark’s most affordable local sim costs $29 NZ and it comes with 2 GB, 200 NZ call mins and texts, plus 100 international call mins and texts.

This is not that much data for three months, but it is nice that you get some free NZ calls/texts, plus some free calls/texts to home which include the USA, Canada, UK, Australia, and lots more.

Sparks other prepaid NZ sim card options include:

10 GB, 200 NZ mins/texts, 200 international mins/texts – $49 NZ
50 GB, Unlimited NZ mins/texts, 200 international mins/texts – $79 NZ
Unlimited GB, Unlimited NZ mins/texts, 300 international mins/texts – $129 NZ (slower speeds after 100GB)

As you can see, you can pretty much find a Spark NZ sim card to match your data needs for up to 3 months of traveling around New Zealand.

Vodafone Prepaid SIM Card

Vodafone New Zealand is another of the most reliable mobile network providers in New Zealand. With Vodafone sim cards, you will have great coverage and fast connection speeds everywhere you travel in this stunning country.

Like Spark, Vodafone New Zealand also has four New Zealand prepaid SIM cards for you to choose from when traveling around New Zealand.

They are more affordable than Spark but expire in 30 or 60 days instead of 90 days, so bear in mind you might have to top up for your last 30 days if you are staying for three months.

Vodafone Prepaid SIM Card Options

Vodafone’s most affordable SIM cards for New Zealand give you the following:

2 GB of data, 200 mins/texts for NZ & international countries – $29 NZ for 30 days

This is a worse deal than Spark, as it lasts for 60 days less and you do not get NZ calls/texts plus international calls, they are all clumped together.

Vodafone’s other prepaid New Zealand SIM cards are:

10 GB, Unlimited NZ mins/texts, 200 international mins/texts – $49 NZ for 60 days
40 GB, Unlimited NZ mins/texts, 200 international mins/texts – $69 NZ for 60 days
100 GB, Unlimited NZ mins/texts, 250 international mins/texts – $99 NZ for 60 days

Vodafone and Spark have very similar offerings; Sparks last longer and are better if you are in New Zealand for 90 days. Vodafone’s nz sim cards are more affordable and offer the same data usage, so are the most cost-effective if you are only in NZ for 60 days or less.

2degrees Prepaid SIM Card

2degrees is another excellent local network provider to buy a local sim from. Their New Zealand prepaid sim card options are extensive and come with both great coverage and excellent connection speeds.

2degrees has nine different prepaid NZ travel sim options, a lot more than both Vodafone and Spark. They offer 3 x 14-day options and 6 monthly options. I will focus on the monthly options as not many people fly to New Zealand for just 2 weeks.

2degrees NZ Travel SIM Options

Before we get into the details of each of these packages, some extras come with a 2-degree sim card.

They provide a Free Data Hour every day where you can use unlimited data for an hour each day, Unlimited texts to NZ & Aussie, and Unlimited calls to 2degrees mobiles. These are pretty awesome benefits, here are the 2degrees monthly plans available:

250 MB, 100 Carryover mins to NZ & Aussie – $10 NZ
1.5 GB, 200 Carryover mins to NZ & Aussie – $19 NZ
3 GB, 300 Carryover mins to NZ & Aussie – $30 NZ
8 GB, Unlimited* Calls to NZ & Aussie – $45 NZ
15 GB, Unlimited* Calls to NZ & Aussie – $60 NZ\
120 GB, Unlimited* Calls to NZ & Aussie – $85 NZ (once data runs out, unlimited data at slower speeds)

As you can see, 2degrees sucks you in with their unlimited texts and calls as well as their free data hour, which is pretty cool. But, these make more sense for locals than people traveling.

Overall, their plans are more expensive than both Spark and Vodafone for traveling.

Skinny Prepaid SIM Card

Your final choice of providers for your best NZ sim card is the travel sim from Skinny . Skinny is another reliable provider with good coverage and fast speeds for your travel sim while touring around New Zealand. They are a part of Sprint.

Skinny has 5 different packages to choose from all of which are monthly contracts that renew every 28 days, bear that in mind when doing your cost comparisons.

Skinny NZ Travel Sim Options

All of these come with unlimited texts to NZ & Aussie plus unlimited skinny-to-skinny calls.

1.25 GB, 200 Rollover mins to NZ & Aussie – $16 NZ
2.5 GB, 300 Rollover mins to NZ & Aussie – $26 NZ
4.5 GB, Unlimited mins to NZ & Aussie – $36 NZ (unlimited data at lower speeds after 4.5 GB)
12.5 GB, Unlimited mins to NZ & Aussie – $46 NZ (unlimited data at lower speeds after 12.5 GB)
40 GB GB, Unlimited mins to NZ & Aussie – $70 NZ (unlimited data at lower speeds after 40 GB)

Skinny has some great deals and are worth looking at if you are in New Zealand for a month but their deals are not as affordable as Sprint or Vodafone.

Is A SIM Card Essential When Traveling to New Zealand?

A SIM card is essential for a trip to New Zealand because many of its more wild areas often don’t have free WiFi.

Big cities like Auckland and Wellington have free WiFi. You can also find it at museums, libraries, and train stations. But outside the cities, you’ll need a hotel or a cafe for free WiFi.

Without a New Zealand sim, using Google Maps is hard. You also can’t hail taxis easily or book tickets. Finding places to eat and keeping in touch with home can be tough too.

Getting a New Zealand sim isn’t too pricey. It’s worth it to stay connected when you travel. It’s also cheaper than using your home sim card abroad.

Things to Know Before Buying A Sim Card in New Zealand

Is your phone unlocked.

Your phone needs to be unlocked for a New Zealand sim card to work. So how can you tell if your phone is unlocked?

If you bought your phone without a contract from a provider, then it’s likely unlocked. It should work with a New Zealand sim card.

However, if your phone was free with a contract from a provider, it may be locked to that provider.

To unlock it, contact your provider. Ask if your phone is locked. If it is, request them to unlock it. This process should only take about 5 minutes.

Are You Using A GSM Phone?

Mobile phones operate on either GSM or CDMA technology, which enables them to link to mobile networks. The issue is that GSM phones cannot function on CDMA networks, and the same applies in reverse, meaning your phone’s tech must align with the network’s.

In New Zealand, the network used is GSM. If you’ve purchased your phone anywhere except North America, it’s likely a GSM device.

North America, specifically Canada and the United States, still employ CDMA phones in certain cases, predominantly with service providers like Sprint and Verizon. If your phone is CDMA, you’ll have to acquire a GSM phone to use a New Zealand sim card.

How to Buy A Sim Card in New Zealand

Buying a sim card before traveling to new zealand.

It is ways easier to have your SIM card before you travel to New Zealand. That way, when you land, you just have to insert your New Zealand sim into your phone and you will be connected.

Buying a sim online from one of the local providers and having it delivered to your home is not so easy. If you are in the

US you can buy an NZ Vodafone sim here
International sim cards on SimOptions .

Buying A Sim Card in New Zealand

Acquiring a sim card in New Zealand can be simple or difficult, depending on the provider.

You can find a Skinny Spark sim card at international airports in Christchurch and Auckland. They are also available at supermarkets, Spark stores, petrol stations, and online.

2degrees sim cards can be purchased online, in 2degrees stores, supermarkets, and petrol stations. Stores like Warehouse Stationery, PB Tech, JB Hi-Fi, and Harvey Norman also sell them.

However, getting a Vodafone sim card can be more challenging. You can only buy them from a Vodafone store, online, or at their airport store.

How Much Does A Sim Card in New Zealand Cost?

You do have to buy the physical sim card in New Zealand in some cases and it usually costs about $1 NZ for a sim card, so it is very cheap. How much your sim card costs after that is up to the plan you choose and how much data you use.

How to Activate & Top Up Your New Zealand Sim Card

Activating and topping up your NZ sim card is very easy. If you have bought a prepaid sim, you can just dial a number to activate it, with Vodafone the number 777.

Topping up is just as easy. You can buy a top-up scratch card, do it online, or call and pay with a card.

Managing Your Mobile Data in New Zealand

If you’re traveling on a tight budget and need to save as much data as possible in New Zealand, there are smart strategies to help. Here are some suggestions:

Turn on airplane mode on your phone when not in use
Use WiFi to download areas you’re visiting in Google Maps for offline navigation
Limit data-heavy apps like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Netflix to WiFi only
Make the most of free WiFi whenever it’s available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need a different sim card for new zealand.

No, if you do not mind using expensive data roaming, you are welcome to use your home sim card in New Zealand.

If you do not want to pay for the expensive roaming fees, you will need to have a specific sim for New Zealand.

Can I get a New Zealand SIM Card in the USA?

Yes, you can buy a sim card for New Zealand in the USA by going to this website . You can also buy an eSim for New Zealand and international travel if you want to.

Can I buy a New Zealand SIM Card in the UK?

Yes, you can buy a sim card for New Zealand in the UK right here .

About the Author Roger Timbrook

Roger is a little obsessed with travel. He has been to over 40 countries, broken 3 suitcases and owned over 10 backpacks in 12 months. What he doesn't know about travel, ain't worth knowing!

The best SIM cards and phone plans for travelling to New Zealand

Stay connected when you're away from home with these SIM plans with roaming in New Zealand.

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Optus plans with New Zealand roaming

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Boost plans with New Zealand roaming

Tangerine plans with New Zealand roaming

Amaysim plans with new zealand roaming.

Best SIM cards for travellers

Even though it feels so close and like a second home for many Aussies, New Zealand isn't a place where you'll get coverage from any of Australia's big three mobile networks.

But if you're planning to visit Aotearoa anytime soon, you'll need on-the-go connectivity in one form or another. How else are you going to post those snaps to Instagram? Here's a quick rundown on the best international roaming options for Aussies looking to visit New Zealand plus the top alternatives.

If you're an Optus postpaid customer signed up to the likes of the Optus $49 Choice Plus Plan, you've got two options when it comes to roaming in New Zealand.

The first is effortless but expensive. If you hop off a plane in Auckland airport and immediately try to use your Optus SIM, you'll incur charges based on how the amount of calls, texts and data you use. These standard roaming rates for New Zealand are as follows

Make and receive calls: $1.50/min
Sending an SMS: $0.50
Receiving an MMS $1/MB
Sending an MMS (to Australian number): $1/MB + standard cost
Sending an MMS (to international): $1/MB + standard cost
Data: $1/MB

If you are looking to hop over the Tasman Sea any time soon, the smarter option here is to make use of Optus' new $5 per day roaming.

This gets you 5GB of data with a 24-hour expiry. Alternatively, you can pay $35 upfront and get 35GB. Either of these offers can be activated through the My Optus app and are available on any of the Optus plans below.

Optus also offers international roaming in New Zealand on its prepaid mobile plans . Like its postpaid ones, this add-on costs extra.

You're either looking at $5 for 1GB of data, 100 messages and 100 minutes of calls with 1-day expiry, $10 for that amount of calls, texts and data with 14 days expiry, a $20 data-only roaming add-on that gives you 10GB but no calls and texts with 14 days expiry and a $35 add-on that gives you 7GB of data, 700 messages and 100 minutes of calls.

If any of that is of interest to you, be sure to check out the shortlist of eligible Optus prepaid plans below.

Vodafone postpaid plans offer international roaming when you travel overseas, and that includes New Zealand. The cost here works out to be $5 per day but that sum gives you access to every gigabyte you're already paying for with your current plan.

Calls and texts are also covered. However, you won't have access to any "endless" data should you go beyond your mobile plan's monthly allowance. Instead, you'll be charged an extra $5 per gigabyte by Vodafone .

The only other caveat here is that you can only use Vodafone's $5 roaming for a maximum of 90 days in a given year. That'll be fine for short stays, but it is something that frequent flyers might want to keep in mind.

The list of eligible Vodafone plans can be seen in the widget below.

Vodafone prepaid customers also have access to a set of roaming add-ons, starting at $5 for 200MB with a one-day expiry and going all the way up to $35 for 2GB with a seven-day expiry.

Even if they will give you coverage in New Zealand, these are not especially great value compared to the roaming offers available from Optus and Telstra. Honestly, you're probably better off going with another one of Australia's other big three or a New Zealand carrier if you want better bang for your buck.

In any case, the Vodafone prepaid phone plans that support roaming can be found in the widget below.

If you don't take advantage of Vodafone's $5 roaming in New Zealand, you'll be subject to the following rates on a pay-as-you-go basis.

Make and receive calls: $1/min
Sending an SMS: $0.75 per standard text message sent, per recipient.
Receiving an SMS: Free
Sending an MMS: $0.75
Receiving an MMS: Free

New Zealand is actually the cheapest country for Telstra roaming. Every other destination comes in at $10 per day, but this one will only cost you $5 if you're signed up for a Telstra postpaid mobile or upfront plan.

As with Optus, that $5 gets you 1GB of data per day plus unlimited standard calls and texts to local and international numbers. However, this add-on expires at midnight Australian time and you'll get charged an extra $10 for 1GB if you go over that limit. This top-up isn't cheap, but it won't expire for another 30 days after you're charged for it.

If you're still thinking of going with the Big T when it comes to roaming in New Zealand, check out the widget below for a round-up of your options.

Telstra's prepaid roaming options aren't much better than those of the other big telcos, but they are there if you need them. There are three add-ons to choose from.

$10 with a three-day expiry: 400MB, 15 messages, 15 minutes of calls
$15 with a seven-day expiry: 2GB, 25 messages, 25 minutes of calls
$25 with a 14-day expiry: 4GB, 50 messages, 50 minutes of calls

Check out the widget below for a shortlist of popular Telstra prepaid plans.

If you aren't set up with any of the add-ons above but still want to roam in New Zealand, it'll cost you $1 per MB.

Telstra doesn't disclose its roaming rates for any specific destinations, New Zealand included, on its website. However, the provider does say that it will send customers an SMS with those rates when it detects them landing at a given destination.

Felix Mobile isn't just one of the few MVNO providers that offer international roaming. It's also one of the best.

While most smaller providers offer poor value packs, expensive pay-as-you-go rates or simply don't offer roaming, Felix Mobile's one and only roaming add-on costs just $20 and includes 4GB of international data, 100 texts, and 100 minutes of talk. Best of all, that roaming data comes with a 365-day expiry. If you use that data up, you just pay another $20 and you're good to go.

The only drawback here is that Felix Mobile's roaming offer doesn't cover as many countries as what you get on Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone. You're only looking at around forty international destinations, though most of the major ones are covered.

Felix is powered by the Vodafone network and is unique in that it offers a mobile plan with unlimited data. Priced at $40 per month, your data is capped to speeds of 20Mbps - both domestically and overseas. You can find learn more via the widget below.

Boost Mobile plans with New Zealand roaming

Felix isn't the only game in town when it comes MVNOs that offer roaming in New Zealand.

Boost Mobile has three different add-on packs for frequent flyers that start at $20. As you'd expect, the more you pay the more you get and the more time you have to use. Here's the short version.

$20 with a three-day expiry: 1GB, 15 messages, 15 minutes of calls
$30 with a seven-day expiry: 3GB, 30 messages, 30 minutes of calls
$40 with 14-day expiry: 5GB, 60 messages, 60 minutes of calls

If that sounds good, be sure to check out the widget below for a snapshot of eligible Boost Mobile prepaid plans.

As of this year, Tangerine now offers two travel packs that include roaming coverage for New Zealand. These are as follows:

$25 for 1GB of data, 60 calls, 60 SMSs and 5-day expiry
$50 for 2GB of data, 150 calls, 150 texts and 10-day expiry

These add-ons can be paired with any of the Tangerine plans below.

Amaysim has twice as many travel packs that include roaming coverage for New Zealand as Tangerine does, including one that just includes calls and text. These are as follows:

$20 for 100 mins of calls and 100 SMSs with 365-day expiry
$25 for 1GB of data, 50 mins of calls and 50 SMSs with 365-day expiry
$50 for 5GB of data with 365-day expiry
$70 for 5GB of data, 100 calls, 100 texts and 365-day expiry

While it's always nice to have more options to choose from, the bigger selling point here is that every single travel pack available through Amaysim comes with 365-day expiry.

These add-ons can be paired with any of the Amaysim plans below.

Best New Zealand SIM cards for travellers

If you're going away on a holiday and don't care about having access to your local number, a local SIM can often be the better choice. It's a little bit more trouble, but it's also usually a lot cheaper than what you'd spend on either travel packs or roaming fees.

Check out the deal strip below for a shortlist of travel sims for New Zealand.

Simify 2.5GB New Zealand Prepaid SIM Card

From $47.39

travSIM Three UK Prepaid SIM Card for Australia & New Zealand

From $19.99

Vodafone Data SIM Card w/Unlimited Minutes to NZ Landlines/Numbers

From $46.99

*Pricing and deals only accurate as of last page update.

What is the best phone plan to use in New Zealand?

If you've just landed in New Zealand and are on the hunt for a local mobile carrier to hook you up to the country's mobile networks, your two big and obvious options are One NZ and Spark. Prepaid SIM-only phone plans from both of these providers can be found at most major New Zealand airports.

For shorter stays, One NZ (formerly known as Vodafone New Zealand) is the better bet. This provider has a number of SIM-only plans that are explicitly aimed at the needs of short-term visitors. For instance, the call and text inclusions with these mobile plans can be used for both local New Zealand numbers and international calls to Australia.

On the other hand, Spark's travel plans are ideal for longer stays. If you're an Australian visiting New Zealand for more than a month, it might be worth taking a closer look at what this provider has to offer. There's even a plan with unlimited data and three-month expiry for those who are happy to pay for peace of mind.

Buying a New Zealand eSIM

If you've got an eSIM- enabled smartphone, there might be an even cheaper alternative available for New Zealand roaming coverage in the form of eSIM providers like Airalo.

These providers allow you to sign up and connect as soon as you land at the airport, using nothing more than a QR code and a credit card. What's more, they can often be cheaper than both local counterparts and Australian mobile providers when it comes to the cost involved.

Other roaming options

Free public wi-fi.

If you're looking to breeze around New Zealand on a budget but stay connected when you need it, then bouncing between free public WiFi networks might be your best bet.

As with Australia , you should be able to find a fair few free WiFi networks throughout New Zealand's libraries, hotels, cafes, attractions and city centres.

Staying connected this way isn't just cheap, it's entirely workable if you're in the right place and don't mind relying on messaging apps like WhatsApp, Signal and Vibr rather than traditional calls and texts.

Best SIM cards for New Zealand FAQs

Yes. Websites like SIMCorner and SIMsDirect will sell you a New Zealand SIM while you're in Australia. This can be a great option if you have the time to get a SIM shipped to your Australian address ahead of time rather than scramble to find one once you land in New Zealand.

While you can't get a SIM card with truly unlimited data in New Zealand, providers like Spark do offer travel SIMs with a similar sort of endless (also known as excess-charge-free) data to that found with most Vodafone plans. If you get through all your gigabytes, you'll stay connected but capped at speeds of 1.2Mbps.

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Disclaimer: The information featured in this article is based on our best estimates of pricing, package details, contract stipulations, and service available at the time of writing. This is not a guarantee. All information is subject to change. Pricing will vary based on various factors, including, but not limited to, the customer’s location, package chosen, added features and equipment, the purchaser’s credit score, etc. For the most accurate information, please ask your customer service representative. Clarify all fees and contract details before signing a contract or finalizing your purchase. Each individual's unique needs should be considered when deciding on chosen products.

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Popular Travel SIM Cards

12GB of Data

Unlimited Minutes within the EU and UK

Unlimited SMS within the EU and UK

30 days service from activation.

10GB of Data

Unlimited Minutes within Europe & UK

Unlimited SMS within Europe & UK

30 days of service from activation

Unlimited Data

Unlimited Calls to standard US and Hawaiian mobiles and landline numbers.

(Optional add on for international calls available)

Unlimited SMS to standard US mobile numbers.

30 Days of service from activation date

40GB Data 4G & 5G

Unlimited Minutes to standard Australian landlines and mobiles.

400 Minutes Standard International Calls From Australia to Brazil, Canada, mainland China, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Sweden, Thailand, UK, USA and Vietnam.

Unlimited SMS to Australian Mobiles

28 Days of service from registration

10GB of 5G/4G Data

Unlimited Calls to standard US and Hawaiian mobile and landline numbers.

Unlimited 4G Data

Not included

30 Days service from activation

6GB of Data

15 Days of service from activation

Popular eSIM For Travel

Unlimited standard Minutes within EU

25€ credits included for calls to international numbers such as Australia, USA, Canada and other countries

Not Included

Unlimited Data of 5G/4G Data

Unlimited Data in USA, Hawaii, Alaska
25GB Data in Canada and Mexico

Unlimited Calls to standard US, Canadian and Mexican mobile and landline numbers.

Unlimited SMS from USA, Canada and Mexico to over 100 countries including; Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom and Germany.

15 days of service from activation

200GB of Data

Not Included.

15GB of 5G/4G Data

180 Days of service from activation

30GB of 4G Data

15 Day service

24GB of Data

500 Local Minutes to use locally within the covered country (mobiles and standard landlines)

28 days service from activation.

Unlimited Data in USA, Hawaii, Alaska and Mexico

25GB Data in Canada

500 Minutes International Calling to over 30 countries (includes, Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom and Germany)

Unlimited SMS to USA, Canada and Mexico phone numbers

15GB of Data

8 Day service

Unlimited Minutes to standard United Kingdom landlines and mobiles and other EU countries

Unlimited Minutes to standard Latvia landlines and mobiles and other EU countries

Unlimited Minutes to standard Italy landlines and mobiles and other EU countries

Unlimited Minutes to standard Liechtenstein landlines and mobiles and other EU countries

Unlimited Minutes to standard Ireland landlines and mobiles and other EU countries

Unlimited Minutes to standard Lithuania landlines and mobiles and other EU countries

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Dream More, Travel Later

Travelling and wandering the world is quite the adventure, but sharing memories and staying in touch with those who matter shouldn’t come at a cost. Our prepaid International travel SIM cards make sure your globetrotting doesn’t come with hefty roaming fees and that you stay connected with ease.

Why Travellers Love Us

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Need help? Travel suggestions? Trouble finding the right plan? Our team of experts is here to help you with your travel SIM card needs. The right travel sim card makes all the difference to your trip.

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Order a FREE 2degrees NZ Visitor SIM here today

Select the sim most suitable for your stay in nz, why choose 2degrees while you're in nz.

The 2degrees Visitor SIM offers you the best value prepay plans. If you are coming to New Zealand and don’t want to queue at the airport for a SIM, order one online now and we’ll post it to you the same day, or if you’ve already arrived in the country we can send it to where you’re staying.

WiFi Calling - talk where others can’t
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THE BEST SIM CARD FOR YOUR NEW ZEALAND TRAVELS

Choose the best nz sim card and stay connected during your travels.

You probably have heard a similar story before: a backpacker who came back home and found a giant phone bill waiting for him. Fact is that no one wants to be that poor guy (literally). But at the same time, if you are travelling through a country as beautiful as New Zealand, you need to get your photos online to give your friends a taste of a Kiwi Experience.

So, you see yourself facing a dilemma when here comes the story's hero in the form of a big green bus… Ok, I will stop. All I am trying to do is introduce you to the main Kiwi phone companies, because with their offers and our “stay connected tips” you will get your phone working, save money and keep your stress level low-as while travelling in New Zealand.

Set your phone free

Have you checked if your phone is unlocked? An unlocked phone can be used anywhere you point on the World Map (Yep! New Zealand is on the World Map too) then you only need to replace the SIM Card with a local one as you travel. If you are not 101% sure, ask your cell company - just in case, ey?

Dodge that bullet

Amazon, Apple, Google and Outlook have (damn good) security systems when you are connecting from a different country. It happens (all the time) with first-time and experienced travellers so to avoid being locked out of your accounts, set up security questions instead of relying on your phone number. You won’t forget your first pet’s name.

Same-same, but different

Unlocked phone and accounts? Check. Now you need to grab yourself a Kiwi SIM Card (up to $5 NZD) and choose a plan. Normally, a $25 to $32 NZD prepaid plan will give you about 3GB in Data, at least 200 minutes in calls (national and international) and texts. Depending on your combo your credits can last from a week up to a year.

Follow the Free WiFi

Doesn’t matter if have the “super-hyper-mega-unlimited” data phone plan, we still recommend using WiFi whenever you can. You’ll find free internet in the Kiwi big city centres, like Auckland (@AucklandWifi@Tomizone) and Wellington (@cbdfree). Also, public libraries, I-Site Centres, museums (Te Papa in Welly) and train stations (Britomart in Auckland) will get you a good connection.

Giant battle

The four major Kiwi cell phone networks are 2Degrees, Vodafone, Spark and Skinny. Here is a quick comparison between then to make your life easier:

2Degrees

2Degrees is our “fav” with their low standard calling and texting rates, great Data deals (10GB for $49 NZD) and some of their combos last for up to a year. Visit our Kiwi Experience office to grab your free SIM.

You can get a free traveller SIM Card from Nomads and Base Backpackers in Auckland. Their NZ Travel SIM Card packs start from $29 NZD and includes texts, national and international calls to selected countries like the UK, Japan and Germany. What might stop you from wearing the Vodaphone Team shirt is the difficulty in getting a SIM Card – you will have to visit their official store or order online.

You can get a SIM Card for $5 NZD from most supermarkets or you can it order online then choose a Spark store to pick it up from – this includes Auckland and Christchurch Airports. The $29 NZD combo is valid for one month and the $49 or $99 plans are for two months. Some of the plans also include 1 GB per day at more than 1000 hot spots around the country – look for the phone booths.

Sparks baby brother, Skinny offers monthly or weekly prepaid combos ($4 - $45). If you run out of juice, you can easily Add-On credit using the website to get you through. You can get a SIM Card for $2 from supermarkets, gas stations and many other stores around the country.

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Buying a Prepaid Sim Card for New Zealand in 2024

Are you traveling to New Zealand and wondering what is the best way to stay connected? Let this guide help you to pick the best sim card for your trip to New Zealand.

Find below a comparison of the New Zealand prepaid sim cards, up to date prices and info as per January 2024, the best 4G/5G network, my recommendation, info about e-sim cards for New Zealand, where to buy a prepaid sim card for New Zealand, international sim cards and everything else you need to know.

Getting connected is the first thing I do when traveling to a new country. In the past I always used to buy a local prepaid sim card on arrival, but more and more I use e-sim cards to stay connected when traveling abroad, simply because it is super convenient, easy and fast to get an e-sim.

Since Traveltomtom is already a full time nomad and travel blogger since 2012 , buying prepaid sim cards and e-sim cards is part of my life, especially since Traveltomtom is also aiming to travel to every country in the world . In 2022 I visited more than 60 different countries and in 2023 I traveled to 34 countries so imagine how many prepaid and e-sim cards I have used in the last 2 years.

That is also why on Traveltomtom you can already find more than 200 prepaid and e-sim card guides from all over the world: Australia , Brisbane , Melbourne , Sydney , Fiji , Nadi , Vanuatu , Tonga , Samoa , Hong Kong , China , Shanghai , Thailand , Bangkok , Indonesia , Jakarta , Bali , Singapore , Malaysia , Dubai , Turkey , Europe , London , USA and many more.

If you are flying into Auckland and you would like to buy a tourist sim card for traveling in New Zealand straight on arrival at Auckland International Airport then click on the link and check out my specific guide for Auckland Airport, including a vlog of what arriving looks like.

So next time you are planning your adventure abroad come check out Traveltomtom for the most up to date and detailed advice about prepaid and e-sim cards for your next holiday destination. Bookmark me!

My recommendation

Traveltomtom recommends ordering an e-sim card for New Zealand to stay connected as it is significantly cheaper than a local prepaid sim card. You can already get an e-sim card for New Zealand with 15 GB data for $25 USD.

Check out Traveltomtom’s complete guide with everything you need to know about e-sim cards for traveling to New Zealand .

Not every phone is e-sim compatible so for those it is also worth it looking into ordering an international prepaid sim card for New Zealand as they are also cheaper than local prepaid sim cards.

When buying a prepaid sim card in New Zealand Traveltomtom recommends a Spark sim card. Spark has the best 4G/5G network in New Zealand and it has a sim card deal for tourists with 4 GB data for $29 USD.

I told you tourist sim cards in New Zealand are more expensive than e-sims you can order on the internet.

The Spark prepaid data plans are slightly more expensive compared to 2degrees and One (former Vodafone), but losing signal as soon as you travel off the beaten path in New Zealand is also very inconvenient.

The best e-sim cards for New Zealand

E-sim cards are the easiest way to stay connected when traveling to New Zealand in 2024. But keep in mind they only work in e-sim compatible phones.

If your phone is e-sim compatible then you simply order an e-sim card for New Zealand on the internet, process the payment, receive a QR code, scan it, follow the simple steps and you are connected in just a couple clicks.

If this raises a lot of questions then check out my complete guide for buying an e-sim card for New Zealand in 2024 , including a comparison of the best available tourist e-sim cards and an answer to the most common FAQ’s.

There are many e-sim providers on the internet, below you can find my recommendations. All providers are trusted, tested and reviewed by Traveltomtom personally.

Airalo is a trusted e-sim card provider and they have the following New Zealand e-sim card plans.

1 GB data for 7 days = $4.5 USD
2 GB data for 15 days = $8.5 USD
3 GB data for 30 days = $11 USD
5 GB data for 30 days = $16 USD
10 GB data for 30 days = $27 USD
20 GB data for 30 days = $44 USD

Click here to order a New Zealand e-sim card via Airalo .

The Airalo e-sim cards are from Nzcom and they operate on the 4G/LTE network of One NZ. These e-sim cards are data-only and only valid in New Zealand.

simoptions esim card plans for new zealand 2024

SimOptions is another trusted e-sim card provider. They sell international e-sim cards that are valid 6 countries around the world.

1 GB data for 7 days = $9.9 USD
10 GB data for 30 days = $24.90 USD
20 GB data for 30 days = $34.90 USD

Click here to order an international e-sim card for New Zealand via SimOptions .

The SimOptions e-sim cards are also data-only and 5G is not supported, only 4G/LTE.

nomad esim card plans for new zealand 2024

A third trusted e-sim card provider is Nomad and they offer also e-sim card plans for New Zealand.

1 GB data for 7 days = $4 USD
5 GB data for 30 days = $13 USD
10 GB data for 30 days = $20 USD
15 GB data for 30 days = $24 USD
20 GB data for 30 days = $30 USD
30 GB data for 30 days = $60 USD
40 GB data for 30 days = $75 USD
50 GB data for 30 days = $90 USD

Click here to order an e-sim card for New Zealand through Nomad .

The Nomad e-sim cards are from Joytel and they operate on the 4G/LTE network of Spark. The Nomad e-sim cards are also data-only.

Before ordering an e-sim card make sure your phone is unlocked and e-sim compatible otherwise an e-sim card won’t work on your phone.

For a more detailed comparison of the best e-sim cards for New Zealand click on the link for my guide, including all FAQ’s about e-sim cards.

Why buying a sim card for New Zealand

No one wants to get stuck with slow overseas data roaming plans. These data plans from your mobile internet provider in your home country reduce the data speed and are much more expensive than e-sim cards or local prepaid sim cards.

The last thing we want is to get stuck with high data roaming charges, which in 2024 are still ridiculous and providers often charge up to $3 USD per MB, which means opening the Instagram app can easily cost you $100 USD. Not kidding! Always make sure you switch off data roaming when traveling internationally.

Very important when traveling to New Zealand is to stay connected. Why? What about ordering a taxi through an app or getting directions from Google Maps. Ever thought about what to do in emergencies and not being able to use data on your phone? Or killing time on long train, bus or car rides, accessing your banking apps, etc.

Don’t rely on WiFi, there is no guarantee your hotel has good and fast WiFi and another reminder that being connected to the internet through public WiFi is on an UNSECURED network. The use of a VPN is recommended to protect your data.

Where to buy a sim card for New Zealand

International airport on arrival.

Buying a sim card on arrival at an international airport in New Zealand is easy. All the major international airports in New Zealand have sim card shops that sell sim cards for tourists. Traveltomtom recorded a vlog what it is like arriving and buying a sim card at Auckland Airport .

Here is a link to my detailed article about buying a sim card at Auckland Airport .

Phone store in city center

All around the big cities in New Zealand there are sim card stores from the main mobile internet providers. Traveltomtom recommends buying a sim card in an official retail store over a random phone shop. In an official retail store of the mobile internet providers you get the best service and discounted deals and before you walk out of the store, the staff will make sure your data connection is working properly.

If you buy a sim card at a gas station or convenience store you will have to activate and register the sim card yourself. At these kind of stores they also sell prepaid sim cards from MVNO’s: Warehouse Mobile, Kogan Mobile and a couple others.

You can also buy a sim card for traveling in New Zealand on the internet and as mentioned before it is actually much cheaper than local prepaid sim cards.

I already showed you everything about ordering an e-sim card for New Zealand , but you can also buy physical prepaid sim cards for traveling in New Zealand. These international sim cards will be delivered to your home address before traveling to New Zealand. On arrival it is plug and play! More about it later.

Mobile internet providers in New Zealand

There are 3 main mobile internet providers in New Zealand: Spark, 2degrees and One. Some New Zealand prepaid sim card comparing websites are still talking about Vodafone New Zealand but since the beginning of 2023 Vodafone is taken over by One

All mobile internet providers sell prepaid sim cards for tourists. Prices for prepaid sim cards for tourists are more or less the same, the big difference between the mobile internet operators is the mobile data network coverage. More about that later.

Registration process

When buying a sim card in New Zealand in any sim card shop you will need to bring your passport. A copy of your passport will be taken in the phone store and your new New Zealand sim card will be registered on your name and your passport number. You will receive a physical prepaid sim card (e-sim cards still not available for tourists) that comes with a New Zealand phone number that starts with +64.

Prices New Zealand prepaid sim cards

All prices and info below are updated in January 2024. Prices are in New Zealand Dollar and $1 USD = $0.63 NZD and $1 NZD = $1.58 USD.

As of January 2024 none of the mobile internet providers in New Zealand offer e-sim cards for tourists. That means when buying a local prepaid sim card you can only get a physical prepaid sim card.

Prepaid sim card plans in New Zealand come with an embarrassing low data volume! Another reason to simply order an e-sim card for traveling to New Zealand.

At 2degrees you are getting charged $5 NZD ($3 USD) extra for the registration of the sim card and you can choose from one of the following plans that are valid for 1 month and come with unlimited sms:

250 MB data + 100 minutes = $10 NZD - $6 USD
1.5 GB data + 200 minutes = $19 NZD - $11 USD
3 GB data + 300 minutes = $30 NZD - $18 USD

The calling and texting credit of the 2degrees prepaid sim card plans can also be used to call/text to Australia. The 2degrees sim cards are 5G ready. For more specifications see the picture above or check out the 2degrees website . 2degrees does not provide e-sim cards for tourists, only physical prepaid sim cards are available.

One offers the following prepaid combo plans that come with unlimited texting and are valid for 28 days:

1 GB data + 100 minutes = $15 NZD - $9 USD
1.5 GB data + 200 minutes = $20 NZD - $12 USD
3 GB data + 300 minutes = $30 NZD - $18 USD
8 GB data + 100 minutes + 100 sms = $40 NZD - $23 USD

One also has a cool options that allows you to build your own prepaid sim card plan.

The One sim cards plans also allow calling/texting to Australia at no extra cost. One does not specify if their prepaid plans are 5G ready. For more specifications see the picture above or check out the One NZ website . One does not provide e-sim cards for tourists, only physical prepaid sim cards are available.

spark new zealand prepaid sim card plans

Spark has 3 prepaid sim card plans for tourists valid for 28 days:

2 GB data + 300 minutes = $20 NZD - $13 USD
4 GB data + 500 minutes = $30 NZD - $19 USD
40 GB data + unlimited calling minutes = $80 NZD - $51 USD

Spark does not specify if their prepaid plans are 5G ready. Also don’t pay too much attention to the free ‘socializer’ GB’s, that only is for Facebook and X (Twitter).

For more specifications see the picture above or check out the Spark NZ website . Spark does not provide e-sim cards for tourists, only physical prepaid sim cards are available.

Best 4G/5G data network in New Zealand in 2024

To determine the best prepaid sim card for traveling in New Zealand let's compare the mobile data network coverage of all the mobile internet providers. New Zealand is famous for being an off the beaten path country and traveling around New Zealand is all about getting disconnected, right?

Therefore don’t have high expectations when it comes to the mobile data network in New Zealand. There is definitely not a 4G/5G signal everywhere.

Is there 5G in New Zealand?

Yes, there is 5G in New Zealand, but especially when traveling off the beaten path, don’t expect to find 5G in New Zealand. The 5G network in New Zealand is still pretty limited.

In fact, depending on which mobile internet operator you choose you might not even find a signal at all.

Let me show you why the network coverage is so important when choosing the best prepaid sim card for New Zealand in 2024.

For a better overview of the network strength lets zoom in on the New Zealand network coverage maps of the North Island and the South Island separately.

2degrees 4G/5G network coverage map North Island

2degrees 4g 5g network coverage north island new zealand 2024

One 4G/5G network coverage map North Island

one 4g 5g network coverage north island new zealand 2024

Spark 4G/5G network coverage map North Island

spark 4g 5g network coverage north island new zealand 2024

When we compare the North Island network coverage maps of the mobile internet providers in New Zealand we conclude that Spark has the most advanced 4G/5G network coverage.

2degrees 4G/5G network coverage map South Island

2degrees 4g 5g network coverage south island new zealand 2024

One 4G/5G network coverage map South Island

one 4g 5g network coverage south island new zealand 2024

Spark 4G/5G network coverage map South Island

spark 4g 5g network coverage south island new zealand 2024

Although the above mobile data network coverage maps are updated for 2024 they are definitely not 100% accurate but it is a great reference to compare the 4G/5G networks of the mobile internet providers in New Zealand.

From the above New Zealand 4G/5G coverage maps we can clearly see that 2degrees is the smallest mobile network operator in New Zealand.

The Spark and One (former Vodafone network do not differ so much and may be in the South Island One has an even slighter better network coverage, but it is hard to tell. Based on the available data Traveltomtom rates Spark as the best 4G/5G network in New Zealand in 2024.

Best sim card for New Zealand

Local prepaid sim cards in New Zealand are expensive for what you get. Prepaid sim card plans with data are very small, but not cheap. All mobile internet providers in New Zealand have a $30 NZD plan, which is $19 USD. One and 2degree give you 3 GB data and Spark gives you 4 GB data. That is $5 to $6 USD per Gigabyte.

Since Spark also has the best mobile data network coverage in New Zealand and the strongest 4G/5G signal around the country it is fairly easy to conclude Spark is the best sim card for New Zealand after comparing the mobile internet operators in New Zealand.

However, when we include e-sim cards and international prepaid sim cards in the comparison we clearly see that ordering a sim card for New Zealand on the internet is much cheaper.

Nomad offers e-sim cards for New Zealand with 15 GB data for just $25 USD, that is only $1.68 USD per Gigabyte. Which is of course much cheaper than buying local prepaid sim cards in New Zealand.

Therefore, if your phone is e-sim compatible go check out my complete guide including a detailed comparison of the best e-sim cards for traveling to New Zealand in 2024 .

There are also e-sim cards for New Zealand with just 1 GB and they start already from $4 USD. Different travelers, different needs. Traveltomtom recommends ordering an e-sim card for New Zealand via SimOptions , Airalo or Nomad .

I you are traveling off the beaten path or you simply don’t want to worry about having a strong phone signal then definitely go for a Spark sim card or an e-sim card that operates on the Spark network.

Spark also has the best prepaid sim card deal in New Zealand for those we use a lot of Gigabyte. For $80 NZD ($47 USD) you get 40 GB data.

Order a prepaid sim card for New Zealand online

international sim card plans for new zealand 2024

If your phone is not e-sim compatible then you can still order an international prepaid sim card for traveling in New Zealand on the internet. These sim cards are valid in multiple countries around the world. After you ordered online, a physical prepaid sim card will be delivered to your home address before your trip to New Zealand.

On arrival it is plug and play.

SimOptions offers the following physical prepaid sim card for New Zealand:

1. Three Data Pack - $24.90 USD

10 GB data-only
Valid 30 days
Valid in 56 countries
Incoming/outgoing calls not supported

2. Orange Holiday World - $49.90 USD

Valid 14 days
Valid in 124 countries

Click here to order an international prepaid sim card for New Zealand directly online via SimOptions .

What you can see above is that the international prepaid sim card from Three gives you 10 GB data for $24.90, that is the cheaper than buying a local prepaid sim card New Zealand.

Last reminder that for those who have an e-sim compatible phone you can just order your e-sim card for traveling to New Zealand on the internet and you are all set within just a couple clicks. Traveltomtom recommends ordering an e-sim card for New Zealand via SimOptions , Airalo or Nomad .

My experience buying a sim card for New Zealand

Traveltomtom visited New Zealand two times over the last years. Last time very recently and that is how I found out that the local prepaid sim cards are much more expensive. On arrival at the airport in Auckland I was pretty surprised that tourist sim cards with data were so expensive.

Since I was just visiting Auckland and also didn’t need that much data I opted for an e-sim card. I literally bought my e-sim card for New Zealand using the free WiFi of Auckland International Airport.

I bought an Airalo e-sim card with 5G data for $16 USD. It worked totally fine and I was more than happy with my data speed and connection. But again, I just stayed in New Zealand.

Also, the reason I didn’t buy an e-sim card from Nomad is because at that time I didn’t hear about them yet. But the same 5 GB data would have cost me only $12 USD at Nomad and their e-sim card for New Zealand even operates on Spark, the best mobile data network in New Zealand.

Anyway, I am sure some of the above tips for buying a prepaid sim card for New Zealand were helpful and my information made it easier for you to pick the right sim card for your trip to New Zealand.

Let me know if you still have any questions and I am more than happy to help you out. Leave me a comment below.

Curious what the life of a full time nomadic traveler looks like? Go check out my Instagram account @traveltomtom and follow along with daily updates from around the world about the good, the bad and the ugly about traveling.

Traveltomtom is on the road to 197, meaning I would like to travel to every country in the world . As of January 2024 I have visited more than 155 countries, still about 40 to go, but no rush.

Enjoy your trip to New Zealand!

Some links in this article about the best prepaid sim cards for New Zealand are affiliate links. If you buy any product after clicking on an affiliate link I will earn a small commission. Don’t worry this is at absolutely no extra cost to you!

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Works in over 200 countries, with a single card & phone number. (And get your card FAST with express delivery).

Find your SIM Card number on the back of the product package or if you no longer have the product package, you can also find the SIM Card phone number from the plastic card .

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Your Worry-Free Trip to New Zealand Starts With a TravelSim Prepaid SIM Card

Talk, text, data with new zealand prepaid sim card.

The New Zealand Prepaid SIM Card is the most convenient and economical solution for staying in touch.

Chat to your friends and family back home by easily connecting to the local New Zealand Spark NZ network. Your SIM can also be used in over 205 countries across 340 networks . Make a call as if you were back home, saving you up to 85% on roaming charges. Free incoming calls.

The one-size-fits-all Prepaid New Zealand SIM Card is suitable for use in any unlocked cell phone or wifi device. Simply add prepaid credit anytime online. We’ve got you covered across New Zealand + more.

Configure Your TravelSim

Universal SIM size — Mini, Macro & Nano Size

Choose credit for calls & texts

Unlimited USA calls voice package includes unlimited calls from USA to USA and European Union numbers. It does not include calls to voicemail and other TravelSim numbers. You can make unlimited calls from USA to following countries: USA, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech.Rep., Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, St. Barthelemy / St. Martin Island, Sweden, United Kingdom.

Burkina Faso
Central African Republic
Congo Democratic Republic
Cote d’Ivoire
Equatorial Guinea
Guinea-Bissau
Sierra Leone
South Africa
South Sudan
Philippines
Russian Federation
South Korea
Cook Islands
New Caledonia
New Zealand
Papua New Guinea
Antigua and Barbuda
British Virgin Islands
Cayman Islands
Dominican Republic
Netherlands Antilles
Saint Lucia
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
St Kitts and Nevis
Trinidad and Tobago
Bosnia And Herzegovina
Czech Republic
Faroe Islands
Liechtenstein
Netherlands
North Macedonia
Switzerland
United Kingdom
Vatican City
Afghanistan
Saudi Arabia
Turkmenistan
United Arab Emirates
Puerto Rico
Turks and Caicos Islands
United States
United States Virgin Islands
El Salvador
Falkland Islands
French Guiana

Add the best data plan to SIM card

Find your zone, add extra number.

Your SIM card phone number starts with +372 by default. In addition to that, you can choose to purchase a UK phone number (+44) or a US phone number (+1).

If you purchase a US number, it will become your primary phone number for outgoing calls. Your default +372 number will still work for incoming calls. Data usage is not affected by phone numbers. Incoming call 0.20$ or 0.15€/min. Incoming SMS is free. US numbers can only receive calls, no SMS service available for US numbers. Incoming call 0.20$ or 0.15€/min

Here are all the countries you can travel to when you select this data plan:

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New Zealand

Traveling all over or don’t know yet? View All

New Zealand Travel SIM Card

Unlimited Calls & Texts

Unlimited Data

Fiji Travel SIM Card

Prepaid nz sims & new zealand sim cards.

More and more Aussie travellers are taking advantage of the cost savings and convenience of a prepaid SIM when they visit New Zealand. Instead of paying high roaming rates or having to figure out where you can find a local SIM provider after you arrive, with your own NZ SIM Card, you can activate as soon as you reach New Zealand and travel connected throughout the North and South Island. We also have a brand-new SIM for travellers who want to experience a holiday in Fiji as well! Get 6GB of Data for 15 Days with a Fiji Travel SIM.

With your New Zealand travel SIM, your mobile will be connected to the 4G 2degrees network, giving you fast connection speeds from Auckland to Invercargill. Whether you need to call an Uber, navigate to your hotel, or send pictures of your stunning sunrise hike to friends and family, you can count on your NZ SIM Card to keep you connected. Take advantage of 2.5GB or 10GB of data plus unlimited texts to NZ and Aussie numbers and unlimited calls to other numbers in the 2degrees network. We make it easy to talk to your connections while you’re abroad with 200 minutes of calls to any NZ or Aussie number as well. Features of Your Fiji Prepaid SIM

For your Fiji travel SIM, you will be connected with up to 4G data speeds, with 6GB for 15 days. This much data is suitable for light browsing, chatting with friends, sharing your stories on Instagram, Facebook or through TikTok. Whether you need to share a photo of the beautiful resort you'll be staying at, or a photo of the pristine beaches, you're covered with our Fiji travel SIM card.

And the best part is, you don’t have to worry about roaming charges or overpaying. SimsDirect prepaid SIM Cards offer a great value, zero surprises, and zero risk with a 100% money back guarantee . Order an NZ SIM today and travel connected in New Zealand. Or get a Fiji SIM and travel connected on your trip to Fiji!

Yes you can! We recommend buying before you fly, so everything is sorted ahead of time. This means you can just pop your local SIM in when you land in New Zealand or Fiji and be good to go! It’s the easy and stress-free option, and means you don’t need to waste precious holiday time trying to find a local SIM shop once you arrive.

The best way to buy a NZ SIM card & Fiji SIM card in Australia is online. It will be shipped to your home address via regular mail - just make sure you choose the appropriate shipping method so it arrives in time! We do offer a few options via our website, so feel free to scope out what works best for you.

We actually import local New Zealand prepaid SIM cards and make them available to you here in Australia before you travel! We do the same thing for our Fiji prepaid SIM cards! They’re the same products you would find in-country and they run off the local Telco networks, so they are New Zealand and Fiji specific. We make sure we source our products from the biggest and best Telcos available to get you guys the best deals possible.

These SIMs work just like your Aussie SIMs work at home! They’ll automatically connect to local networks in the country. You just need to make sure your phone is unlocked so you can use them properly.

Where It Works

It works anywhere in New Zealand!

It works anywhere in Fiji!

Aland Islands, Australia, Austria, Azores, Balearic Islands, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canary Islands, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, El Salvador, England , Estonia, Finland, France, French Guiana, French West Indies, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Guernsey, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Isle of Man, Israel, Italy, Jersey, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau, Madeira, Malta, Martinique, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Northern Ireland, Norway, Panama, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Reunion, Romania, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, San Marino, Scotland, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, The Czech Republic, United States, Uruguay, US Virgin Islands, Vatican City, Vietnam, Wales

The best SIM card for NZ

You have booked your trip to NZ and now you're thinking... What's the best NZ SIM card for my trip?

Well you're in the right place 👍

Here, you can find the best value NZ SIM cards that are super easy to use so when you land you will connect instantly and avoid the chaos of buying a SIM at the airport.

Keep reading or watch our video with all the available options so you can make the right choice.

All your options, compared.

Best bang for your buck: The 10GB New Zealand SIM

Other Aussie travellers like you rated the 10GB option the best with over 800+ 5 star Reviews.

Below are our options compared with Vodafone and Spark mobile, the major providers in New Zealand.

Small Plans

For the budget traveller looking to save money.

Best suited for minimal data users
Research restaurants, places and sites on the go
Use google maps for your travels

200 mins & texts in NZ
100 mins & texts to Aus
30 day validity

300 mins to NZ & Aus
Unlimited texts to NZ & Aus

For the full guide on how to use this SIM, view our SIM guide here.

Medium Plans

The 'all rounder'. There's a reason that Aussie travellers love this one.

Get this one if you:

Want best bang for your buck
Need access to a lot of apps including maps, social media etc.
Unlimited mins & texts in NZ
200 mins & texts to Aus
60 day validity
Unlimited calls to NZ & Aus
300 mins & texts to Aus

For the full guide on how to use this SIM, view our SIM guide here .

Large Plans

For the traveller who needs heavy internet usage on the go for 1 or multiple devices.

Don't worry about running out of data
Can hotspot to multiple devices
Great for videos, maps, social media and big downloads
Unlimited calls & texts in NZ

Bottom Line

You are looking for the right SIM for your needs and want to make the right choice so you can travel around New Zealand easily.

By choosing one of the SIM cards through SimsDirect you are avoiding the hassle when you land and getting the best value SIM cards for Aussie travellers.

Plus you get free delivery and 100% money back guarantee with every purchase.

You can't go wrong with the SimsDirect 10GB SIM that comes with unlimited calls & texts to NZ and Australian numbers.

The 'all rounder'. There's a reason that Aussie travellers love this one. Get this one if you:

Shipping and Delivery

Frequently asked questions.

Delivery times vary depending on your location, please use the table below for estimated delivery times.

Shipping Method:

Standard - Free Express - $7.99

All orders are shipped from our Sydney office using the Australia Post Domestic Letter Service.

Same-day dispatch is available on orders placed before 3pm AEST/AEDT Monday - Friday. Any orders placed after 3 pm will be dispatched the next day.

Once we've shipped your order, you will receive a tracking number via email. Click the View Order button in the email to monitor the status of your delivery with Australia Post.

If you're leaving soon and your order hasn't arrived, please contact us so we can arrange to have it delivered to you with free express shipping. It is important to us that we ensure your SIM card(s) arrive well before you take off.

Product Information

Yes! We offer 3 different sizes for each SIM card - Standard, Micro, and Nano. All you need to do is make sure that you pop out the correct size that is compatible with your device.

The SIM will only activate once you have inserted it into your device, which, in most cases, is when you have arrived at your destination.

You can find more specific activation steps here .

Zero. We're here to help you save money whilst abroad. With our SIM cards, you'll get all the data and outgoing calls that you pay for without any added surcharges or hidden costs. For as little as $2 a day, we offer the cheapest way of staying online while you're travelling.

If you purchased your device outright then it is most likely unlocked. Devices purchased alongside a contract are usually locked. If you are unsure, contact your service provider, they may even be able to unlock it for you (usually incurring a fee).

You’ll be able to track your data usage directly from your device, please click here for an in-depth guide on how to do so.

Travel easily & safely!

Travel tips for 2023, traveling the globe, check out the explorer collection.

Explorer Travel SIM Card

71 Countries
Aland Islands
Balearic Islands
Canary Islands
The Czech Republic
El Salvador
French Guiana
French West Indies
Isle of Man
Liechtenstein
Netherlands
Northern Ireland
Puerto Rico
Saint Barthelemy
Saint Martin
Switzerland
United States
US Virgin Islands
Vatican City

Tourist Travel SIM Card

120 Countries
China (including Tibet)
Congo (Democratic Republic of)
Congo Republic
Czech Republic
Faroe Islands
Madagascar Republic
North Ireland
Northern Cyprus
Papua New Guinea
Philippines
Saudi Arabia
Slovak Republic
South Africa
South Korea
Svalbard and Jan Mayen

Why is the activation date important?

We need these dates to activate your SIM card so you can use it when the SIM is inserted into your device.
For a seamless experience, make sure the date you insert at checkout is the exact date you want to start using the SIM, not earlier or later.
Activation can take anywhere from a few minutes to a couple of hours.

Not sure on your dates yet?

You can add in an estimated date for your SIM. Your SIM’s data & validity won’t start until you plug it into your device.
Once you know your exact dates, please let us know via our live chat or at [email protected] so we can activate it for you at the right time.

What if you need to change the dates?

You can reach out to us via our live chat or at [email protected] with your order number so we can change it for you.

Using Dual SIM with an eSIM

An eSIM is a digital SIM that allows you to use a mobile plan from your service provider without having to use a physical nano-SIM. Find out how to set up and use Dual SIM. 1

How can you use Dual SIM?

Use one number for business and another number for personal calls.

Add a local data plan when you're travelling outside the country or region.

Have separate voice and data plans.

Both your phone numbers can make and receive voice and FaceTime calls and send and receive messages using iMessage, SMS and MMS. 2 Your iPhone can use one cellular data network at a time.

If you want to use 5G with Dual SIM on your iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro or iPhone 12 Pro Max, make sure that you have iOS 14.5 or later .

What you need

An iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR or later with iOS 12.1 or later

A wireless carrier that supports eSIM

To use two different carriers, your iPhone must be unlocked . Otherwise, both plans must be from the same carrier. If a CDMA carrier provides your first SIM, your second SIM won't support CDMA. Contact your service provider for more information.

If you have an enterprise or corporate mobile service plan, check with your company administrator to see whether they support this feature.

Set up another mobile plan on your iPhone

Use two phone numbers

Find out about Dual SIM status icons

Change your mobile data number, manage mobile data settings.

Erase your eSIM

All iPhone models that support eSIM can have multiple eSIMs and use Dual SIM with two active SIMs at the same time.

You can use Dual SIM by using a physical SIM and an eSIM. iPhone 13 models and later also support two active eSIMs. iPhone models without a physical SIM tray support two active eSIMs.

Find out how to activate a mobile plan on an eSIM .

Label your plans

After your second plan has been activated, label your plans. For example, you can label one plan Business and the other plan Personal.

The labels help when choosing which phone number to use for making or receiving calls and messages, to designate a number for mobile data, and to assign a number to your contacts so you know which number to use.

If you change your mind later, you can amend your labels by going to Settings, tapping either Cellular or Mobile Data, and then tapping the number for the label you want to change. Then tap Cellular Plan Label and select a new label or enter a custom label.

ios-16-iphone-13-pro-dual-sim-setup-choose-label-from-list

Set your default number

Choose a number to use when you call or send a message to someone who isn't in your Contacts app. Choose which mobile plans you want to use for iMessage and FaceTime. You can choose either or both numbers.

ios-16-iphone-13-pro-sim-settings-cellular-set-default-line

On this screen, choose a number to be your default, or you can choose which number will be used for mobile data only. Your other number will be your default one. If you want your iPhone to use mobile data from both plans, depending on coverage and availability, turn on Allow Mobile Data Switching.

Use two phone numbers for calls, messages and data

Now that your iPhone has been set up with two phone numbers, here's how to use them.

Let your iPhone remember which number to use

When you call one of your contacts, you don't need to choose which number to use every time. By default, your iPhone uses the same number that you used the last time you called that contact. If you haven't called that contact, your iPhone will use your default number. You can also specify which number to use for your calls with a contact. Follow these steps:

Tap the contact.

Tap Preferred Mobile Plan.

Tap the number that you want to use with that contact.

ios-16-iphone-13-pro-dual-sim-contacts-set-line-phone-contact

Make and receive calls

You can make and receive phone calls with either phone number.

When you're on a call, if the service provider for your other phone number supports Wi-Fi calling, you can answer incoming calls on your other number. When you're on a call using a line that isn't your designated line for mobile data, you need to turn on Allow Mobile Data Switching to receive calls from your other line. If you ignore the call and have voicemail set up with your service provider, you'll receive a missed-call notification and the call will go to voicemail. Check with your service provider for Wi-Fi calling availability and find out whether additional fees or data usage applies from your data provider.

If you're on a call and your other line shows No Service, either your carrier doesn't support Wi-Fi calling or you don't have Wi-Fi calling turned on. 3 When you're on a call, an incoming call on your other phone number will go to voicemail if you set up voicemail with your carrier. When you're on a call, an incoming call on your other phone number will go to voicemail if you set up voicemail with your carrier. 4

Switch phone numbers for a call

You can switch phone numbers before you make a call. If you're calling someone in your Favourites list, follow these steps:

Tap the current phone number.

Tap your other number.

If you're using the keypad, follow these steps:

ios-16-iphone-13-pro-dual-sim-phone-set-phone-call-line

Enter the phone number.

Tap the phone number, near the top of the screen.

Tap the number that you want to use.

Send messages with iMessage and SMS/MMS

You can use iMessage or SMS/MMS to send messages with either phone number. 5 You can choose a number to use before or after starting a conversation.

Choose a number before sending an iMessage or SMS/MMS message

Open Messages.

Tap the New button, in the top right-hand corner of the screen.

Enter your contact's name.

ios-16-iphone-13-pro-dual-sim-messages-select-line-to-send-message

Switch numbers during a conversation

Tap the number you're using, near the top of the screen.

Choose the number you want to use instead.

ios-16-iphone-13-pro-dual-sim-messages-select-conversation-line

The icons in the status bar at the top of the screen show the signal strength of your two service providers. Find out what the status icons mean .

You can see more status icons when you open Control Centre .

ios-16-iphone-13-pro-dual-sim-control-center-no-service-second-line

When Service provider 1 is in use, the other line will show No Service.

ios-16-iphone-13-pro-dual-sim-control-center-status-wifi-wifi-calling

The status bar shows that the device is connected to Wi-Fi and Carrier 2 is using Wi-Fi Calling.

ios-16-iphone-13-pro-dual-sim-control-center-second-line-using-cellular-data

With Allow Mobile Data Switching turned on, the status bar shows that Service Provider 1 is using 5G, and Service Provider 2 is using the mobile data of Service Provider 1 and has Wi-Fi calling enabled.

One number at a time can use mobile data. To change which number uses mobile data, follow these steps:

Go to Settings.

Tap either mobile or Mobile Data.

Tap Mobile Data.

Tap the number that you want to be using mobile data.

ios-16-iphone-13-pro-sim-settings-cellular-cellular-data

If you turn on Allow Mobile Data Switching, then while you're on a voice call on your voice-only number, that number will automatically switch to using voice and data. 6 This lets you use both voice and data while on the call.

If you turn off Allow Mobile Data Switching and you're active on a voice number that isn't your designated mobile data number, then mobile data won't work when you're on the call.

To turn on Allow Mobile Data Switching, follow these steps:

Turn on Allow Mobile Data Switching.

To change your mobile data settings for each of your plans, follow these steps:

Tap the number that you want to change.

Tap each option and set it as you normally would.

ios-16-iphone-13-pro-sim-settings-cellular

Use Dual SIM with an eSIM and your Apple Watch .

If you can’t set up your eSIM or if you have trouble using your eSIM, find out what to do .

eSIM on iPhone is not offered in China mainland. In Hong Kong and Macao, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation) and iPhone XS feature eSIM. Learn about using Dual SIM with two nano-SIM cards in China mainland, Hong Kong and Macao .

This uses Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS) technology, which means that both SIMs can make and receive calls.

Or if you're using iOS 12, update to iOS 13 or later to receive calls when you're using your other number.

4. If data roaming is turned on for the number that uses mobile data, then Visual Voicemail and MMS will be disabled on your voice-only number.

Additional fees may apply. Check with your service provider.

Your data line will be switched automatically for the duration of your call. This mobile data switching won't work if you're currently using Data Roaming. Check with your service provider for availability and to find out if additional fees apply.

Contact Apple Support

Need more help? Save time by starting your support request online and we'll connect you to an expert.

Spirit Airline employee filmed swearing at passenger in TikTok video

Sarah Pollok

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The employee was filmed swearing at a passenger in a Florida airport. Photo / 123rf

A video of an airline worker has gone viral online, showing the employee swearing at a passenger.

In the video, posted on TikTok on April 9 by a man with the username @sightssoundsflavors, a Spirit Airlines employee is shown yelling at a woman waiting in line at the check-in desk at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.

In the clip, the employee for the budget carrier asks the woman for her boarding pass.

“Show me your boarding pass. I want to see your boarding pass,” she’s heard saying.

The passenger holds her document folder up to the employee who begins to write something down on a pad of paper.

“This Spirit employee is very offended because this lady said something to her,” the man filming said, adding that it looked like she may stop the passenger from boarding her flight.

Passengers behind grow impatient and the employee tells them to go around the pair and continue onto the plane.

Eventually, the woman moves past the employee and walks towards the gate. “I will not miss my flight,” she says, as the employee follows her closely.

After seeming to collect the final details she needs, the Spirit employee is caught yelling “F**k you too” at the woman before storming off.

The crowd around her gasp in response and the man filming asks the passenger what happened to anger the employee.

“Wow, what did you say to her? She was really upset?” he asks but the woman simply smiles and continues walking towards the flight.

The video has since been removed from TikTok and uploaded to YouTube by the creator.

In the TikTok video, the man posted a long caption explaining his thoughts on the event, The New York Post reported.

“Things you see when you travel as much as I do. The passenger definitely started it, but the airline employee lost the moral high ground when she confronted the passenger for a second time,” he wrote.

While passengers can be ‘very rude’, most surrounding people would only see the employee’s reaction to it, which wasn’t a good look for the airline, he added.

In the comment, people appeared divided over who was the victim in the situation.

“My favourite part was the lady’s smirk after the employee said fu like she knew she was going to get her fired,” one person commented.

“Spirit employee is savage,” another suggested.

A third agreed, saying they didn’t know the context but that it was never okay to ‘lose it’ like the employee did.

However, one person said they sided with the employee, who was responsible for ensuring certain passengers didn’t fly.

“I used to be a gate agent so I can a hundred percent side with the airline employee here,” they wrote. “If that lady was mouthy or rude in anyway, there’s no way that she needs to be up in the air.”

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Fjords, Pharaohs or Koalas? Time to Plan for Your Next Eclipse.

If you can’t get enough of totality, or missed out this time, you’ll have three more chances in the next four years in destinations like Iceland, Spain, Egypt and Australia.

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A small, black disk surrounded by a bright, white halo suspended in a mostly dark sky over the still waters of a lake in which dim, golden light from the horizon is reflecting. There are dark hills and mountains beyond the lake.

By Danielle Dowling

Are you still a little giddy from the magical moments of totality during Monday’s solar eclipse? Or did clouds swoop in to block your view? Maybe you just couldn’t make it to the path of totality this time. No matter what, the question now is “ Where and when will it happen again?”

“People who have never seen it before, the first words out of their mouth after the totality ends is ‘I’ve got to see another one, this is incredible, this is unbelievable.’ That is when you become addicted to these things and end up traveling no matter where the next one is,” said Joseph Rao, an eclipse chaser and guest lecturer at the Hayden Planetarium.

So, if like Mr. Rao, you’ve developed a raging case of umbraphilia — the love of eclipses — you’ll have three chances over the next four years to see the moon blot out the sun. The first, on Aug. 12, 2026, will start above Greenland, then strafe the west coast of Iceland and move along the Atlantic Ocean and over Spain. Almost a year later, on Aug. 2, 2027, another will skirt the Mediterranean coast of North Africa then cross Egypt and part of the Arabian Peninsula. The third, on July 22, 2028, will cut across Australia and the southern tip of New Zealand.

Future Eclipses

Eclipse chasers will have several more chances this decade to view a total solar eclipse .

Last week, as Victoria Sahami , the owner of Sirius Travel , was preparing to guide a group of tourists in Mazatlán, Mexico, for Monday’s big event, she was also planning for these other upcoming eclipses. Ms. Sahami joined the ranks of the eclipse-obsessed when she witnessed one in Venezuela in the 1990s. “Like many people, I was hooked. There was no going back,” she said.

Total solar eclipses happen fairly regularly — about every one to two years — in locations scattered around the world. “That’s the great thing about them: You wind up in places that you don’t normally go,” Ms. Sahami said.

A major spoiler is weather, which will be a big variable in the 2026 eclipse — one Greenland, Iceland and Spain will see.

“Iceland normally has a lot of cloud during that time of year,” said Paul Maley , who runs Ring of Fire Expeditions . “The data shows Spain to have the higher good-weather prospects of all three. However, the sun is low in the sky and the eclipse ends as the sun hits the horizon at sunset.”

Because of Iceland’s mercurial meteorology, Ring of Fire Expeditions is going all in on Spain, with a 10-day excursion on the mainland. Sirius Travel is offering not only a five-day trip to Majorca but also an eight-day tour around Iceland. It will be based in Reykjavik, and the itinerary will remain flexible on the day of the eclipse so the tour can easily pivot toward the location with the least cloud cover. Ms. Sahami recommends the trip for those who already have a few eclipses under their belt and would be happy just to take in the sights of Iceland if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

The 2027 eclipse, on the other hand, promises to be truly stellar: Luxor, Egypt — the site of numerous ancient temples as well as the Valleys of the Kings and Queens — sits right in the middle of the path of totality and will be bathed in darkness for a full 6 minutes 23 seconds. Weather-wise, it is what Ms. Sahami called “a slam dunk.” “You know you’re going to see it. You know that you’re not going to get any clouds,” she said.

But for all its potential, those considering Egypt should be aware that the State Department has a Level 3 “Reconsider Travel” warning for the country because of the risk of terrorism.

The 2028 eclipse will darken the skies over Sydney, Australia, for 3 minutes 49 seconds. It will be the first time the city has experienced a total solar eclipse since 1857. Ms. Sahami has her eyes on a trip based out of there, while Mr. Maley has chartered a cruise ship off the northwest coast of Australia. It will be winter there, he said, but that isn’t likely to mean bad eclipse-viewing weather.

If you want to see any (or all) of these eclipses, you should get started on planning and booking now, particularly if you want to sign up for a trip organized by a tour company. One of Sirius Travel’s excursions to Luxor is already full.

Scrutinize refund policies and look into insuring your trip. Several companies will fully refund your deposit if you cancel a year in advance. A lot can happen, Ms. Sahami said, “but if you think you’re going to go, why not?”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

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COMMENTS

A local Travel SIM for when you visit New Zealand. One NZ
No worries - simply stop by one of our stores when you get here. We're also at airports near the duty free or arrival areas. Find a store. Data, mins and TXTs on NZ Travel SIM $29 lasts 30 days. Data, mins and TXTs on NZ Travel SIM $49, $69 and $99 lasts 60 days. Included mins and TXTs are for personal use, and to standard numbers in NZ only.
Best SIM cards for travelling in New Zealand
When you're travelling in New Zealand with Optus on a Choice Plus postpaid plan, you'll pay just $5 for a 5GB data pack with a 24-hour expiry. You'll get unlimited talk and text to get in touch with friends and family back home, and for making calls within New Zealand. Here is Optus' current SIM-only plan range: #1.
NZ Travel Packs with SIM
Our NZ Travel Packs with SIM are perfect for travelling in New Zealand. From $29, includes data and international minutes. At Spark stores plus AKL/CHCH airports. ... If you intend or need to be in New Zealand for longer than three months, we suggest you check out our Pay Monthly or Prepaid packs. You can add extras to them for international ...
What's the best New Zealand SIM card for tourists (and locals)?
You can also buy prepaid SIM cards by one of Skinny's competitors, Vodafone, 2Degrees and Spark. Spark: Skinny uses their mobile network, so the coverage is the same for both. Their prepay plans are just more expensive. 2Degrees: In my personal experience the network became quite patchy as soon as I left the city or town centres.
New Zealand SIM Card: What You Need To Know
Finally, Nomad is also a great eSIM provider. You can learn more by reading our Nomad eSIM review. Here's an overview of the plans available for New Zealand: 1GB, valid for 7 days for $4. 3GB, valid for 30 days for $13. 5GB, valid for 30 days for $15. 10GB, valid for 30 days for $19. 15GB, valid for 30 days for $25.
Best Tourist Sim Cards in New Zealand in 2024
A Tourist Sim Card in New Zealand costs between $25 NZD and $43 NZD in April 2024, however, the exact price will often depend on the store you visit and the plan you choose. Alternatively, an eSim in New Zealand will cost between $4.50 USD and $44 USD. This, again, depends on how much data you require and which eSim provider you choose.
SIM Cards in New Zealand: The Best Prepaid Plans
One NZ New Zealand (formerly Vodafone New Zealand): 29 NZD, 59 NZD & 99 NZD (Travel Plans) 2degrees New Zealand: free (Tourist SIM - can be shipped around the world 1) Skinny Mobile: 28 NZD, 48 NZD & 88 NZD (NZ Travel SIM) Be aware that SIM cards sold at airports can be more expensive than the prices mentioned earlier.
Best New Zealand Sim Card for Travellers (2023)
A lot of the world has sim cards for travellers with lots of data at a good price. Unfortunately, New Zealand does not. It's improving with companies like Skinny and 2 Degrees entering the market, but there's still room for improvement when considering the best sim only plans in New Zealand. Table of Contents. 1. The Best Sim Card For NZ ...
Unlimited Travel SIM
1. Get your Unlimited Travel SIM. Order a SIM from our partner with free delivery worldwide or find one at select airports, popular tourist destinations and 2degrees retail stores. 2. Add usage days to suit your suit your trip. Our Unlimited Travel SIM lets you pick a plan based on the duration of your trip. 3.
New Zealand: Best Prepaid Sim Cards For Travel
Vodafone's most affordable SIM cards for New Zealand give you the following: 2 GB of data, 200 mins/texts for NZ & international countries - $29 NZ for 30 days. This is a worse deal than Spark, as it lasts for 60 days less and you do not get NZ calls/texts plus international calls, they are all clumped together.
New Zealand: Best Tourist eSIMs Reviewed (2024)
New Zealand 1 GB eSIM for 7 days (Truphone), costing 6 USD. New Zealand 3 GB eSIM for 20 days (Joytel), costing 8 USD. New Zealand 3 GB eSIM for 30 days (Truphone), costing 11 USD. New Zealand 5 GB eSIM for 30 days (Joytel), costing 13 USD - most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers.
Best New Zealand Travel SIM and plans (2023)
Optus also offers international roaming in New Zealand on its prepaid mobile plans.Like its postpaid ones, this add-on costs extra. You're either looking at $5 for 1GB of data, 100 messages and 100 minutes of calls with 1-day expiry, $10 for that amount of calls, texts and data with 14 days expiry, a $20 data-only roaming add-on that gives you 10GB but no calls and texts with 14 days expiry ...
SimCorner
SimCorner is New Zealand's favourite one-stop shop for all your international SIM card needs. At Sim Corner we sell Travel SIM cards & eSIM cards for the hottest destinations such as USA SIMs, Japan, Europe UK, Australia and Asia at unbeatable prices! Get your prepaid sims direct to your door or office in Auckland, Christchurch or New Zealand wide.
Welcome
Free visitor sim cards for travellers to New Zealand. ... We will send, at no cost, a free Visitor SIM to you anywhere in New Zealand or around the world. Select the SIM most suitable for your stay in NZ. FREE SIM Monthly prepay plan from $10 /m Monthly prepay Cancel at any time ...
Best E-Sim Cards for Traveling to New Zealand in 2024
4G/LTE. $1.75 USD per Gigabyte. The best value tourist e-sim card for New Zealand is the Joytel e-sim cards from Nomad. Joytel operates on the mobile data network of Spark, the best 4G/5G data network in New Zealand. Nomad has more e-sim card offers for New Zealand, some good, some ok.
THE BEST SIM CARD FOR YOUR NEW ZEALAND TRAVELS
Their NZ Travel SIM Card packs start from $29 NZD and includes texts, national and international calls to selected countries like the UK, Japan and Germany. What might stop you from wearing the Vodaphone Team shirt is the difficulty in getting a SIM Card - you will have to visit their official store or order online. ...
Auckland Airport (AKL) SIM Card Buying Guide
But if you do plan on visiting New Zealand for a month or two and would like your validity to be as long as possible, the One NZ Travel SIM will be more cost-effective. For example, if you normally use 20 GB a month, the 60/69 NZD One NZ Travel SIM with 40 GB for 60 days will be a good option.
Buying a Prepaid Sim Card for New Zealand in 2024
Prices New Zealand prepaid sim cards. All prices and info below are updated in January 2024. Prices are in New Zealand Dollar and $1 USD = $0.63 NZD and $1 NZD = $1.58 USD. As of January 2024 none of the mobile internet providers in New Zealand offer e-sim cards for tourists.
Prepaid International SIM Cards For New Zealand
The New Zealand Prepaid SIM Card is the most convenient and economical solution for staying in touch. Chat to your friends and family back home by easily connecting to the local New Zealand Spark NZ network. Your SIM can also be used in over 205 countries across 340 networks. Make a call as if you were back home, saving you up to 85% on roaming ...
Roaming in New Zealand: the best local SIM card for travellers
The carrier's NZ Travel SIM can be purchased from Vodafone New Zealand on arrival at the airport - not from Vodafone Australia before you depart - with the entry-level pack costing NZ$29 (A$25.60). You'll get 500MB of 4G data plus 200 minutes of calls to numbers in New Zealand, Australia and 15 other countries and 200 text messages to the ...
Prepaid NZ SIMS & New Zealand SIM Cards
With your New Zealand travel SIM, your mobile will be connected to the 4G 2degrees network, giving you fast connection speeds from Auckland to Invercargill. Whether you need to call an Uber, navigate to your hotel, or send pictures of your stunning sunrise hike to friends and family, you can count on your NZ SIM Card to keep you connected. ...
2degrees
Unlimited Travel SIM. Includes. Unlimited NZ data; Unlimited Hotspot; Unlimited calls & texts to NZ and Aussie numbers within NZ; For more information, please visit our website. Get started ...
Explore The Best New Zealand SIM Cards for Australian Travellers
2. Customers Choice: 40GB New Zealand SIM Card -. Another frequently recommended option by customers, the 40GB New Zealand SIM Card is a great all-rounder for Australian travellers. It offers 40GB of 4G LTE data, unlimited talk and text to NZ numbers, and also includes 200 minutes back to Australian numbers.
Using Dual SIM with an eSIM
Set up another cellular plan on your iPhone. All iPhone models that support eSIM can have multiple eSIMs and use Dual SIM with two active SIMs at the same time. You can use Dual SIM by using a physical SIM and an eSIM. iPhone 13 models and later also support two active eSIMs. iPhone models without a physical SIM tray support two active eSIMs.
Using Dual SIM with an eSIM
Set up another mobile plan on your iPhone. All iPhone models that support eSIM can have multiple eSIMs and use Dual SIM with two active SIMs at the same time. You can use Dual SIM by using a physical SIM and an eSIM. iPhone 13 models and later also support two active eSIMs. iPhone models without a physical SIM tray support two active eSIMs.
New Zealand tightens visa rules in response to 'unsustainable ...
CNN —. New Zealand announced it has tightened its visa rules, introducing language and skill criteria and shortening work permit lengths in response to "unsustainable net migration.". The ...
Why a New Zealand Getaway is the Thrill of a Lifetime
Thrill to views of stunning mountains and pristine waters during a picnic at Lake Hawea and a birding walk at Lake Moeraki. Meet the warm and welcoming Kiwis on a visit to a sheep and cattle ranch ...
Spirit Airline employee filmed swearing at passenger in ...
Photo / 123rf. A video of an airline worker has gone viral online, showing the employee swearing at a passenger. In the video, posted on TikTok on April 9 by a man with the username ...
Where You Can See the Next Total Solar Eclipse, in 2026
The third, on July 22, 2028, will cut across Australia and the southern tip of New Zealand. Future Eclipses Eclipse chasers will have several more chances this decade to view a total solar eclipse .
Air New Zealand Buys 9M Liters of SAF from Neste
By Donna M. Airoldi / April 15, 2024 / Contact Reporter. Air New Zealand has agreed to purchase 9 million liters of neat sustainable aviation fuel from producer Neste, the carrier announced Monday. Neither company disclosed the value of the deal. The fuel will be produced at Neste's Singapore refinery and will be blended with conventional jet ...

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