New Zealand – although most aware of its existence, it is often omitted from world maps.
It is so bad that there is even a dedicated subreddit called Maps without New Zealand on them, with close to 100 000 members.
But what is the country known for? Rudby, the Haka, and the Lord of the Rings.
Oh, and the Manuka Honey is phenomenal.
But what can you actually do in the country? A lot.
Sure, you can explore Auckland, Christchurch, or Queenstown, but you would be doing yourself a disservice.
The nature in New Zealand is stunning.
The Abel Tasman National Park is famous. Franz Josef Glacier has unique tours with remarkable views, and you can go on the Hobbiton Movie Set Tours.
In short, there is no reason to be bored in New Zealand.
Before posting amazing New Zealand landscape photos online, you should know that international roaming can be expensive.
So expensive that it could be the same price as your return ticket to and from New Zealand.
Luckily, a way to avoid roaming rates is by using local SIM cards, like one from New Zealand, allowing you to enjoy local rates.
But how much do New Zealand SIM cards cost?
You can get a New Zealand SIM card for as little as 1 NZD (0.70 USD) from Warehouse Mobile. Skinny Mobile sells them for 2 NZD (1.35 USD). Spark, Vodafone & 2degrees SIM cards can be obtained for 5 NZD (3.40 USD) in their stores and resellers. Airports, like Auckland, have SIM cards too.
SIM cards are really inexpensive in New Zealand!
At least that is one of the few things that is cheap about New Zealand – getting to this country is almost never cheap.
So, now it is time to cover much more about SIM cards in this country.
In this guide, I will go over everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in New Zealand. Let's go.
Original publication: 16th of February 2020. Last updated: 31st of October 2021.
Table of Contents
Can You Buy a SIM Card in New Zealand?
Anyone is allowed to buy a New Zealand SIM card, including tourists and visitors.
Be aware that you need a phone that supports the frequencies used in the country (preferably all of them to have the most optimal experience while in New Zealand).
And your phone should be unlocked (SIM-lock-free).
Where Can You Buy a SIM Card in New Zealand?
You can buy a New Zealand SIM card in the mobile operator stores (Spark (also for Skinny Mobile), Vodafone, 2degrees & Warehouse Mobile) or other retailers, including grocery stores, electronic stores, and diaries. SIM cards are also available at airports, such as Auckland Airport.
You can buy a SIM card in the following international airports:
- Auckland Airport
- Christchurch Airport
- Queenstown Airport
You can expect to pay the following for New Zealand SIM cards:
- Spark New Zealand: 5 NZD
- Vodafone New Zealand: 5 NZD
- 2degrees New Zealand: 5 NZD
- Skinny Mobile: 2 NZD
- Warehoue Mobile: 1 NZD & 16 NZD
The following operators also have SIM cards targeting tourists:
- Spark New Zealand: 29 NZD, 49 NZD, 59 NZD, 89 NZD & 129 NZD
- Vodafone New Zealand: 29 NZD, 49 NZD, 59 NZD & 99 NZD
- 2degrees New Zealand: free (can be shipped around the world)
- Skinny Mobile: 28 NZD, 48 NZD & 88 NZD
Can You Use Your Phone in New Zealand?
New Zealand uses GSM technology for mobile communications. CDMA phones will not work in New Zealand. However, there is a 99% chance your phone supports GSM (if your phone has a SIM card slot, then it supports GSM).
Besides that, you need to be aware of the ITU regions to determine whether your phone will work in other parts of the world.
Although there are three ITU regions, you only need to know these two terms: American Frequencies and European Frequencies.
Africa, Asia (including the Middle East), Europe, and Oceania (ITU Regions 1 & 3) typically use European Frequencies, meaning phones bought in those regions can be used in countries using European Frequencies without issues.
The Americas (North-, Central, and South America + the Caribbean), ITU Region 2, use American Frequencies, which are different from the European Frequencies.
New Zealand uses primarily European frequencies for 2G, 3G, and 4G/LTE. However, they use a low-band frequency for 4G/LTE that is an American frequency (700 MHz on Band 28).
In comparison, the high-band frequency for 4G/LTE is 1800 MHz on Band 3 – the base 4G/LTE frequency for almost all nations in ITU regions 1 & 3.
If you bought your phone in the Americas (ITU region 2) and have a low/medium-end device (without Tri-Band or Quad-Band) support, then you can get a SIM card from Spark New Zealand and use its 3G network on 850 MHz.
If you purchased your phone in Africa, Asia, Europe, or Oceania (ITU regions 1 & 3) and have a low/medium-end device (without Tri-Band or Quad-Band) support, then you can get a SIM card from any operator and use 2G, 3G, and 4G/LTE.
If you have a medium/high-end device with Tri-Band or Quad-Band support, you can use your phone in New Zealand without (major) issues – also on 4G/LTE and 5G NR.
Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in New Zealand
New Zealand has three mobile network operators (Main Operators) and two Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs):
- New Zealand
- Vodafone New Zealand
- 2degrees New Zealand
- Skinny Mobile
- Warehouse Mobile
The following frequencies are used in New Zealand:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz (Vodafone New Zealand only)
- 3G: 850 MHz, 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 900 MHz (Band 8), 1800 MHz (Band 3) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
- 5G NR: 2100 MHz (Band/n1) & 3600 MHz (n78)
You can learn more about frequencies in the video below.
To check whether your phone will work in New Zealand, check out this page by Will My Phone Work (may be outdated or inaccurate at times).
Again, make sure your phone is unlocked. Otherwise, you will not be able to use any SIM card except the one from your home operator (meaning you have to roam internationally or buy another unlocked phone that does support the frequencies listed above).
If you want to learn how international roaming works, this guide explains it in-depth. If you wonder why it is often so expensive to roam, this article explains the hidden reason they do not want you to know.
A Note About Kogan Mobile
In the previous version of this guide, I covered Kogan Mobile New Zealand as well.
Since then, I have changed the policy of SIM cards I recommend in my guides.
Only easily accessible SIM cards for tourists get covered.
That means SIM cards that can be purchased in-person in stores (branded or resellers) and not solely online.
Kogan Mobile New Zealand SIM cards can only be ordered online. As a result, it will not be covered in this guide anymore unless this changes.
However, it may be the cheapest option in New Zealand (it certainly was back in 2020).
Moreover, it uses the Vodafone New Zealand network, which is great.
You can learn more about Kogan Mobile New Zealand on its website.
5G NR in New Zealand
Commercial 5G NR has been available in New Zealand since 2019. It is currently available on the Spark New Zealand, Vodafone New Zealand, Skinny Mobile & Warehouse Mobile networks (also to prepaid customers).
In April 2021, 2degrees announced that it had partnered with Ericsson to launch commercial 5G NR somewhere in 2021, starting in Auckland and Wellington.
It is unknown whether 2degrees will offer 5G NR to prepaid customers immediately or not.
Although 5G NR is still mostly concentrated in populated areas (like Auckland, Christchurch, Hamilton & Wellington), it is still being actively rolled out.
Best SIM Card in New Zealand
If you want to buy the best SIM card in New Zealand, I recommend going with 2degrees. It is, overall, the best mobile operator in the country. Consider Vodafone for faster speeds and 5G NR access.
SIM Card Registration in New Zealand
SIM card registration, with the use of your personal information (such as your passport), is not required when buying a SIM card in New Zealand.
New Zealand Mobile Speeds, Mobile Internet Prices & Insights
Mobile data rates are quite all over the place in Oceania.
In some countries, the cost of mobile data is basically nothing.
In others, it will cost you an arm and a leg.
So what about in New Zealand? Is mobile data expensive here? To some extent.
The average price for 1 GB of data in New Zealand is 6.99 USD, above the Oceanian average of 5.51 USD. The world average is 4.07 USD.
While many other Pacific nations have seen the cost of mobile data drop (significantly) compared to 2020, New Zealand's numbers increased a little.
Alright, let's talk about speeds. Is mobile data fast in New Zealand? Yes, it is.
New Zealand's average mobile download speed is around 84 Mbps.
This may be surprising to some because of New Zealand's remoteness.
But speeds are fast here.
Unlike Australia, with subpar broadband speeds in many places in the country, while having superior mobile download speeds.
The mobile speeds in New Zealand are almost half the broadband average of 164 Mbps.
In a year, the average mobile download speed has increased by 52.7%.
Mobile coverage is great to excellent in populated areas. However, it can be poor up in the mountains or rural New Zealand.
And you will be surprised to learn that the largest mobile operator is not necessarily the best option in the country.
With affordable SIM card prices, reasonably priced mobile data rates, great nationwide coverage, and fast mobile download speeds, you should have a smooth network experience in New Zealand.
Currency in New Zealand
New Zealand use the New Zealand Dollar with the symbol NZD (which will be used throughout this guide).
However, prices are often listed as just $ & NZ$. For example, 25 NZD = NZ$/$25.
For reference, below are some exchange rates between NZD and USD (US Dollars):
- 1 NZD = 0.70 USD
- 10 NZD = 6.95 USD
- 100 NZD = 69.35 USD
For up-to-date NZD:USD exchange rates, search NZD to USD on Google, or replace USD with the currency you use.
If your credit/debit card charges you foreign exchange fees, get yourself a Wise Borderless Account and Debit Card.
Their fees are MUCH lower than banks, and credit card companies charge you (and Wise is transparent about their fees, unlike banks).
I have saved literal THOUSANDS of Euros, my main currency, when using Wise abroad when traveling compared to my debit and credit cards. Open a Wise account FREE!
New Zealand Prepaid SIM Cards
Below, I will guide you through Spark New Zealand, Vodafone New Zealand, 2degrees New Zealand, Skinny Mobile & Warehouse Mobile, and go through:
- Background information
- Mobile coverage
- SIM card types, prices, and availability
- Recharge/top-up information
- Combo plans, data plans, and special packs (such as social media packs)
With that being said, let’s see what New Zealand has to offer to us.
Spark New Zealand
Spark New Zealand, just Spark, is the largest mobile network operator in New Zealand. It is also the oldest mobile operator in the country.
Spark uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: shut down since 2012
- 3G: 850 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28) & 1800 MHz (Band 3)
- 5G NR: 2100 MHz (Band/n1) & 3600 MHz (n78)
This is what you will learn about Spark:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Spark SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Spark New Zealand
Spark has great coverage throughout New Zealand.
However, it lags behind in many areas compared to its competitors.
Nevertheless, it does have the best 4G coverage experience in the country.
Below is Spark's 3G coverage map:
Also the 4G/LTE coverage map:
Finally, the 5G NR map:
I always like to compare official coverage maps with one made independently because some mobile operators are overly optimistic with their maps.
Ironically, this map is more favorable than it should be.
SIM Card Price – Spark New Zealand
You can buy a Spark SIM card for 5 NZD in Spark stores and other establishments, including grocery stores, electronic shops, and kiosks. It is also possible to get Spark SIM cards at Auckland and Christchurch Airports.
Short-term visitors and tourists can also get the Spark Travel SIM – Spark's tourist SIM card.
They include data, social media data (Socializer), local minutes, international minutes (to 20 countries), local SMS, and international SMS (to 20 countries) for up to 3 months.
They come in 5 variants, which are shown below:
| Price | Data | Social Media Data 1 | Local Minutes | International Minutes 2 | Local SMS | International SMS 2 | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 29 NZD | 1 GB | N/A | 200 minutes | 100 minutes | 50 SMS | 50 SMS | 1 month |
| 49 NZD | 5 GB | 1 GB | 200 minutes | 200 minutes | 100 SMS | 100 SMS | 2 months |
| 59 NZD | 10 GB | 1 GB | Unlimited | 200 minutes | Unlimited | 200 SMS | 2 months |
| 89 NZD | 25 GB | 1 GB | Unlimited | 200 minutes | Unlimited | 200 SMS | 2 months |
| 129 NZD | 50 GB | N/A | Unlimited | 200 minutes | Unlimited | 200 SMS | 3 months |
1 Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Spotify & Twitter
2 Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Portugal, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Thailand, United Kingdom & United States
Do note that Spark Travel SIM cards cannot be renewed.
It is also possible to get a Spark eSIM for the same price as a regular SIM card.
To use a Spark eSIM, you need to have one of the following devices:
- Huawei P40 (or later)
- iPhone XR/XS (or later)
- Samsung Galaxy Fold
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip
- Samsing Galaxy S20 (or later)
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Spark New Zealand
Spark top-up vouchers are sold in Spark stores and many other establishments, such as kiosks, gas stations, and grocery stores.
To top up your Spark SIM card, dial *333, select option 1, enter your phone number, select option 1 again, and enter your Voucher Code.
You can also tell the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.
You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.
Dial *333 to check your Spark balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the Spark NZ app (Android/iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Spark New Zealand
Spark has three data-featured plans:
- Prepaid Value Packs (combo)
- Data Lovers (data)
- Data Extras (data add-on)
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Prepaid Value Packs – Spark New Zealand
The Prepaid Value Packs are combo plans with data, minutes, and SMS.
Prepaid Value Packs can be activated on the Spark NZ app:
| Price | Data | Social Media Data 3 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19 NZD | 1.25 GB | N/A | 200 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days |
| 29 NZD | 2 GB | 2 GB | 300 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days |
| 49 NZD | 4 GB | 2 GB | 500 minutes | Unlimited 2 | 28 days |
| 79 NZD | “Unlimited”, 40 GB 1 | N/A | Unlimited | Unlimited 2 | 28 days |
1 40 GB high-speed data, then unlimited at 1.2 Mbps
2 also to Australia
3 Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Spotify & Twitter
Unused data and call allowances will roll over for up to 365 days. However, you can carry over only 3.5 GB and 500 minutes.
Data Lovers – Spark New Zealand
The Data Lovers are data-only plans.
Data Lovers can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 258.
| Price | Data | Social Media Data 1 | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 NZD | 1.5 GB | 1 GB | 28 days | BUY 20DATAROLLL |
| 40 NZD | 4.5 GB | 1 GB | 28 days | BUY 40DATAROLLL |
1 Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Spotify & Twitter
Unused data and call allowances will roll over for up to 365 days. However, you can carry over only 3.5 GB and 500 minutes.
Data Extras – Spark New Zealand
The Data Extras are data-only add-ons.
Data Extras can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 258.
| Price | Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 NZD | 100 MB | 28 days | BUY 5DATA |
| 9 NZD | 1 GB 1 | 28 days | BUY 9SOCIAL |
| 10 NZD | Unlimited | 24 hours | App only |
| 20 NZD | 1 GB | 28 days | BUY 20DATA |
| 23 NZD | 2 GB | 28 days | BUY 23DATA |
1 Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Spotify & Twitter
APN/Internet Settings – Spark New Zealand
- Name: Spark
- APN: internet
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Vodafone New Zealand
Vodafone New Zealand, just Vodafone, is the second-largest mobile operator in New Zealand.
It has, however, overtaken Spark New Zealand numerous times, so it could be the largest at any time.
Although using the famous Vodafone brand name, it is not owned by Vodafone anymore. Instead, the brand is run by a local investment company.
Vodafone uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
- 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 1800 MHz (Band 3) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
- 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78)
This is what you will learn about Vodafone:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Vodafone SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Vodafone New Zealand
Vodafone has great coverage throughout New Zealand.
However, it currently has the worst 4G/LTE availability.
Below is Vodafone's coverage map. Do note this map is more favorable than it should be:
SIM Card Price – Vodafone New Zealand
You can buy a Vodafone SIM card for 5 NZD in Vodafone stores and other establishments, including grocery stores, electronic shops, and diaries. It is also possible to get Vodafone SIM cards at Auckland, Christchurch & Queenstown Airports.
Short-term visitors and tourists can also get the Vodafone Travel Plans – Vodafone’s tourist SIM card.
They include data, local minutes, international minutes (up to 19 countries), local SMS, and international SMS (up to 19 countries) for up to 60 days.
They come in 4 variants, which are shown below:
| Price | Data | Local Minutes | International Minutes 1 | Local SMS | International SMS 1 | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 29 NZD | 1.5 GB | 200 minutes | Combined with local | 200 SMS | Combined with local | 30 days |
| 49 NZD | 5 GB | 200 minutes | Combined with local | 200 SMS | Combined with local | 60 days |
| 59 NZD | 10 GB | Unlimited | 200 minutes | Unlimited | 200 SMS | 60 days |
| 99 NZD | 20 GB | Unlimited | 200 minutes | Unlimited | 200 SMS | 60 days |
1 Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Japan, Malaysia, Netherlands (not for 29 NZD plan), Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Taiwan (not for 29 NZD plan), Thailand (not for 29 NZD plan), United Kingdom & United States
The Vodafone Travel Plans can be purchased at the following locations:
- Airports
- iSite Visitor Information Centers (Devenport, Princess Wharf, Waiheke & Warkworth)
- Vodafone stores
- Auckland (Vodafone store at 128 Queen Street & Sky City)
- Queenstown (Vodafone store at 42 Beach Street)
- Wanaka (Vodafone store at 31 Dunmore Street)
- Wellington (Vodafone stores at Shop 3, 190 Lambton Quay & 90 Cuba Street)
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Vodafone New Zealand
Vodafone top-up vouchers are sold in Vodafone stores and many other establishments, such as kiosks, gas stations, and grocery stores.
To top up your Vodafone SIM card, text the Voucher Code to 887 or call 777 and follow the instructions.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would text 123456 to 887.
You can also tell the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.
You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.
Text BAL to 777 to check your Vodafone balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the My Vodafone New Zealand app (Android/iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Vodafone New Zealand
Vodafone has six data-featured plans:
- Prepay Combo (combo)
- MyFlex Prepay (customizable combo)
- Big Data Combos (data)
- Prepay Boost Data Add-Ons (as the name suggests)
- Extra Data for Travel Plans (as the name suggests)
- Vodafone Pass (social media add-ons)
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Prepay Combo – Vodafone New Zealand
The Prepay Combo plans are combo bundles with data, minutes, and SMS.
The following Prepay Combo plans are available:
| Price | Data | Social Media Data 2 | Local/International Minutes 1 | Local/International SMS 1 | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13 NZD | 250 MB | Unlimited | 100 minutes | 100 SMS | 28 days |
| 15 NZD | 1 GB | Unlimited | 100 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days |
| 20 NZD | 1.5 GB | Unlimited | 200 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days |
| 25 NZD | 2 GB | Unlimited | 300 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days |
| 35 NZD | 4 GB | Unlimited | 300 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days |
| 45 NZD | 5 GB | Unlimited | 400 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days |
| 55 NZD | 10 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 28 days |
1 to Australia only
2 Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Snapchat, TikTok & Twitter for 1 year
MyFlex Prepay – Vodafone New Zealand
MyFlex Prepay is a customizable plan allowing you to set how much data and how many New Zealand & Australia minutes you want.
Each MyFlex Prepay plan needs at least 250 MB of data and 100 minutes, costing 13 NZD.
With every configuration, unlimited New Zealand & Australia minutes can be added for 1 NZD.
The following MyFlex Prepay options are available:
| Data/Minutes 1 | 250 MB | 1 GB | 1.25 GB | 1.5 GB | 1.75 GB | 2 GB | 3 GB | 4 GB | 5 GB | 8 GB | 10 GB | 25 GB | 40 GB |
| 100 minutes | 13 NZD | 14 NZD | 17 NZD | 18 NZD | 20 NZD | 22 NZD | 27 NZD | 32 NZD | 37 NZD | 40 NZD | 42 NZD | 57 NZD | 67 NZD |
| 200 minutes | 14 NZD | 15 NZD | 18 NZD | 19 NZD | 21 NZD | 23 NZD | 28 NZD | 33 NZD | 38 NZD | 41 NZD | 43 NZD | 58 NZD | 68 NZD |
| 300 minutes | 15 NZD | 16 NZD | 19 NZD | 20 NZD | 22 NZD | 24 NZD | 29 NZD | 34 NZD | 39 NZD | 42 NZD | 44 NZD | 59 NZD | 69 NZD |
| 400 minutes | 20 NZD | 21 NZD | 24 NZD | 25 NZD | 27 NZD | 29 NZD | 34 NZD | 39 NZD | 44 NZD | 47 NZD | 49 NZD | 64 NZD | 74 NZD |
| 500 minutes | 22 NZD | 23 NZD | 26 NZD | 27 NZD | 29 NZD | 34 NZD | 36 NZD | 41 NZD | 46 NZD | 49 NZD | 51 NZD | 66 NZD | 76 NZD |
| Unlimited | 25 NZD | 26 NZD | 29 NZD | 30 NZD | 32 NZD | 34 NZD | 39 NZD | 44 NZD | 49 NZD | 52 NZD | 54 NZD | 69 NZD | 79 NZD |
1 also to Australia
Unused data and minutes will roll over when your plan renews. Up to 35 GB and 500 minutes can be carried over for 360 days.
With MyFlex Prepay, you are automatically enrolled into the DataUp program.
With each renewal, you will get 10% bonus data that stacks up.
At your 10th renewal, you will get double the data allowance for the same price.
Big Data Combos – Vodafone New Zealand
The Big Data Combos are combo plans, emphasizing data, with data, minutes, and SMS.
The following Big Data Combos are available:
| Price | Data | Social Media Data 2 | Local/International Minutes 1 | Local/International SMS 1 | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40 NZD | 8 GB | Unlimited | 100 minutes | 100 SMS | 28 days |
| 60 NZD | 25 GB | Unlimited | 300 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days |
| 80 NZD | 40 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | Unlimited | 28 days |
1 to Australia only
2 Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Snapchat, TikTok & Twitter for 1 year
Unused data and minutes will roll over when your plan renews. Up to 35 GB and 500 minutes can be carried over for 360 days.
Prepay Boost Data Add-Ons – Vodafone New Zealand
The Prepay Boost Data Add-Ons are, as the name implies, data add-ons. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.
Prepay Boost Data Add-Ons can only be purchased on the My Vodafone New Zealand app:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 5 NZD | 500 MB | 1 day |
| 10 NZD | 750 MB | 7 days |
| 20 NZD | 1 GB | 28 days |
| 25 NZD | 1.5 GB | 28 days |
| 45 NZD | 2.5 GB | 28 days |
Extra Data for Travel Plans – Vodafone New Zealand
The Extra Data for Travel Plans is, as the name implies, an exclusive data add-on for the Vodafone Travel Plans.
It gives 1 GB of data valid for 60 days, costing 20 NZD.
Activation is done by texting BUY EXTRADATA to 756.
| Price | Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 NZD | 1 GB | 60 days | BUY EXTRADATA |
The Vodafone Passes (Chat/Music/Social/Video Pass) are unlimited data add-ons for select chat, music streaming, social media, and video streaming apps. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.
Vodafone passes can be activated on the My Vodafone New Zealand app:
| Price | Plan | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 NZD | Chat Pass 4 | Unlimited | 1 day |
| 2 NZD | Music Pass 3 | Unlimited | 1 day |
| 2 NZD | Social Pass 1 | Unlimited | 1 day |
| 3 NZD | Chat Pass 4 | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 5 NZD | Video Pass 2 | Unlimited | 1 day |
| 5 NZD | Music Pass 3 | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 5 NZD | Social Pass 1 | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 5 NZD | Chat Pass 4 | Unlimited | 28 days |
| 10 NZD | Video Pass 2 | Unlimited | 7 days |
| 10 NZD | Music Pass 3 | Unlimited | 28 days |
| 10 NZD | Social Pass 1 | Unlimited | 28 days |
| 20 NZD | Video Pass 2 | Unlimited | 28 days |
1 Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Snapchat, TikTok & Twitter
2 Neon, Netflix, Sky Go, TVNZ OnDemand & Vodafone TV
3 Apple Music, iHeartRadio, Rova, Spotify, SoundCloud & Tidal
4 Facebook Messenger & WhatsApp
APN/Internet Settings – Vodafone New Zealand
- Name: VF WEB
- APN: vodafone
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
2degrees New Zealand
2degrees is the smallest mobile operator in New Zealand. However, it is the best mobile operator in many categories.
2degrees uses the following frequencies:
- 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE:700 MHz (Band 28), 900 MHz (Band 8) & 1800 MHz (Band 3)
This is what you will learn about 2degrees:
* Coverage
* How to Get a 2degrees SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – 2degrees New Zealand
2degrees has great coverage throughout New Zealand.
It has the best 4G availability.
Below is 2degrees' coverage map. Do note this map is more favorable than it should be:
SIM Card Price – 2degrees New Zealand
You can buy a 2degrees SIM card for 5 NZD in 2degrees stores and other establishments, including grocery stores, electronic shops, and diaries.
You may have to call 200 to activate your 2degrees SIM card.
Short-term visitors and tourists can order the 2degrees Visitor SIM and get it delivered at home in or out of New Zealand.
Although you will be saving the 5 NZD new SIM card fee, you will also get 5 international minutes to call to Australia, Canada, China, Fiji, India, Ireland, Samoa, Tonga, United Kingdom & United States.
Besides those perks, regular 2degrees plans can be purchased ith the 2degrees Visitor SIM.
2degrees SIM cards get deactivated if there has been no activity for 365 days (no top-up for 365 days or no activity for 365 days).
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – 2degrees New Zealand
2degrees top-up vouchers are sold in 2degrees stores and many other establishments, such as grocery stores, diaries & retailers.
The credit of each top-up is valid for 365 days.
To top up your2degrees SIM card, text your VoucherCode to 201, dial *100#, or call 201 and follow the instructions.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would text 123456 to 201.
You can also tell the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.
You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.
Text bal to 233 or dial *100*1# to check your 2degrees balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the 2degrees app (Android/iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – 2degrees New Zealand
2degrees has four data-featured plans:
- Fortnightly Prepay Plans (combo)
- Monthly Prepay Plans (combo)
- Data Clock (short-term unlimited data)
- Add-Ons (data add-ons)
Click the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Fortnightly Prepay Plans – 2degrees New Zealand
The Fortnightly Prepay Plans are combo bundles with data, minutes, and SMS.
Fortnightly Prepay Plans can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 233:
| Price | Data | Local/International Minutes 1 | Local/International SMS 1 | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 NZD | 650 MB | 100 minutes | Unlimited | 14 days | 10plan14D |
| 15 NZD | 1.25 GB | 150 minutes | Unlimited | 14 days | 15plan14D |
| 20 NZD | 2 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 14 days | 20plan14D |
1 to Australia only
Fortnightly Prepay Plans auto-renew.
Monthly Prepay Plans – 2degrees New Zealand
The Monthly Prepay Plans are combo bundles with data, minutes, and SMS.
Monthly Prepay Plans can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 233:
| Price | Data | Local/International Minutes 1 | Local/International SMS 1 | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 NZD | 250 MB | 100 minutes | Unlimited | 1 month | 10plan1M |
| 19 NZD | 1.25 GB | 200 minutes | Unlimited | 1 month | 19plan1M |
| 30 NZD | 2.5 GB | 300 minutes | Unlimited | 1 month | 30plan1M |
| 40 NZD | 4 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1 month | 40plan1M |
| 55 NZD | 10 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1 month | 55plan1M |
| 70 NZD | 25 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1 month | 70plan1M |
| 85 NZD | 40 GB 2 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1 month | 85plan1M |
1 to Australia only
2 unlimited data after exhausting your data allowance @ 1 Mbps
Unused allowances will roll over when your plan renews. Carry over balance is valid for 1 year.
Monthly Prepay Plans auto-renew.
Data Clock – 2degrees New Zealand
The Data Clock is an unlimited data option from 15 minutes (0.40 NZD) to 1 day (7 NZD). They cannot be purchased as standalone plans, and you need to have a plan worth at least 15 NZD to activate Data Clock.
Data Clock has to be activated on a separate app (Android/iOS):
| Price | Data 1 | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 0.40 NZD | Unlimited | 15 minutes |
| 0.70 NZD | Unlimited | 30 minutes |
| 0.95 NZD | Unlimited | 45 minutes |
| 1 NZD | Unlimited | 1 hour |
| 1.50 NZD | Unlimited | 2 hours |
| 2 NZD | Unlimited | 4 hours |
| 3 NZD | Unlimited | 8 hours |
| 4 NZD | Unlimited | 12 hours |
| 6 NZD | Unlimited | 15 hours |
| 7 NZD | Unlimited | 1 day |
1 speed to be reduced to 1 Mbps after exhausting 40 GB in a calendar month
Do note that Data Clock cannot be paused when activated.
You can, however, purchase multiple Data Clocks at a time, which will run after each other.
Add-Ons – 2degrees New Zealand
The Add-Ons are data add-ons. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.
Add-ons can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 233:
| Price | Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 NZD | 500 MB | 1 month | Buy 500MB |
| 20 NZD | 1 GB | 1 month | Buy 1GB |
| 50 NZD | 15 GB | 1 month | Buy 15GB |
| 99 NZD | 12 GB | 6 months | Buy 12GB |
Add-ons auto-renew. To cancel auto-renewal, replace Buy from the Activation Code with Stop to 233.
APN/Internet Settings – 2degrees New Zealand
- Name: 2degrees
- APN: internet
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Skinny Mobile
Skinny Mobile, sometimes referred to as just Skinny, is a Spark New Zealand MVNO. It is actually directly owned by Spark New Zealand.
To learn about Skinny Mobile’s frequencies, jump back to Spark New Zealand’s frequencies.
This is what you will learn about Skinny Mobile:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Skinny Mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Skinny Mobile
Skinny Mobile is a Spark New Zealand MVNO, meaning Skinny Mobile uses the Spark New Zealand network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.
To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with Skinny Mobile, jump to the Spark New Zealand Coverage section.
SIM Card Price – Skinny Mobile
You can buy a Skinny Mobile SIM card for 2 NZD in Spark New Zealand stores (not a mistake) and various other retailers, including grocery stores, gas stations, and electronic shops – even diaries. It is also possible to get SIM cards at Queenstown Airport
You may have to call 456 to activate your Skinny Mobile SIM card.
Short-term visitors and tourists can also get the Spark NZ Travel SIM – Skinny Mobile’s tourist SIM card.
They includes data, New Zealand & Australia minutes, international minutes (to 24 countries), and New Zealand & Australia SMS for up to 60 days.
They come in 3 variants, which are shown below:
| Price | Data | Local Minutes 1 | International Minutes 2 | Local SMS 1 | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 28 NZD | 2 GB | 200 minutes | 200 minutes | 200 SMS | 30 days |
| 48 NZD | 6 GB | 200 minutes | 200 minutes | 200 SMS | 60 days |
| 88 NZD | 20 GB | N/A | N/A | N/A | 60 days |
1 also to Australia
2 Bangladesh, Belgium, Canada, China, Denmark, France, Fiji, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Ireland, Italy, Malaysia, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Singapore, Sweden, Thailand, United Kingdom & United States
Spark NZ Travel SIM cards can be purchased at:
- Auckland Airport (Relay – arrivals)
- I-SITE Princess Wharf
- I-SITE SkyCity
- Queenstown Airport (Paper Plus – main entrance)
Text My Number to 2424 to see your Skinny Mobile phone number.
Skinny Mobile SIM cards get deactivated if there has been no activity for 12 months (no top-up for 12 months or no activity for 12 months).
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Skinny Mobile
Skinny Mobile top-up vouchers are sold in Spark New Zealand stores (not a mistake) and many other establishments, such as grocery stores, diaries & retailers.
To top up your Skinny Mobile SIM card, text TOPUP VoucherCode to 2424.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would text TOPUP 123456 to 2424.
You can also tell the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.
You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.
Text BAL to 2424 to check your Skinny Mobile balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the Skinny Mobile app (Android/iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Skinny Mobile
Skinny Mobile has four data-featured plans:
- Weekly Prepay Mobile Plans (combo)
- 4-Week Prepay Mobile Plans (combo)
- Data Binge (short-term unlimited data)
- Data Add-Ons (as the name implies)
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Weekly Prepay Mobile Plans – Skinny Mobile
The Weekly Prepay Mobile Plans are combo plans with data, minutes, and SMS.
Weekly Prepay Mobile Plans can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 2424:
| Price | Data | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 NZD | 100 MB | 60 minutes | 750 SMS | 7 days | BUY WEEKLY |
| 20 NZD | 10 GB 2 | Unlimited 1 | Unlimited 1 | 7 days | BUY20PLAN |
1 also to Australia
2 Endless Data – unlimited data after exhausting your data allowance @ 1.2 Mbps
Weekly Prepay Mobile Plans auto-renew. To disable auto-renewal, text STOP to 2424.
Unused data and minutes will roll over when your plan renews.
4-Week Prepay Mobile Plans – Skinny Mobile
The 4-Week Prepay Mobile Plans are combo plans with data, minutes, and SMS.
4-Week Prepay Mobile Plans can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 2424:
| Price | Data | Local/International Minutes 1 | Local/International SMS 1 | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 NZD | 250 MB | 100 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days | 9PLAN |
| 16 NZD | 1.25 GB | 200 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days | 16PLAN |
| 26 NZD | 2.5 GB | 300 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days | 26PLAN |
| 36 NZD | 4.5 GB 2 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 28 days | 36PLAN |
| 46 NZD | 12 GB 2 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 28 days | 46PLAN |
| 70 NZD | 40 GB 2 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 28 days | 70PLAN |
1 to Australia only
2 Endless Data – unlimited data after exhausting your data allowance @ 1.2 Mbps
4-Week Prepay Mobile Plans auto-renew. To disable auto-renewal, text STOP to 2424.
Unused data and minutes will roll over when your plan renews.
Data Binge – Skinny Mobile
The Data Binge bundles are unlimited data options from 10 minutes (0.50 NZD) to 12 hours (4 NZD). They can be purchased as standalone data plans.
Data Binge can be purchased on the Skinny Mobile or by texting DATABINGE to 2424:
| Price | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| 0.50 NZD | Unlimited | 10 minutes |
| 1 NZD | Unlimited | 1 hour |
| 2 NZD | Unlimited | 4 hours |
| 4 NZD | Unlimited | 12 hours |
Do note that Data Binge cannot be paused when activated.
You can, however, purchase multiple Data Binge at a time, which will run after each other.
Data Add-Ons – Skinny Mobile
The Data Add-Ons are, as the name implies, data add-ons. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.
Data Add-Ons can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 2424:
| Price | Data | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 NZD | 200 MB | 7 days | BUY DATA200 |
| 8 NZD | 600 MB | 7 days | BUY DATA600 |
| 10 NZD | 1 GB | 28 days | BUY DATA1GB |
| 15 NZD | 2 GB | 28 days | BUY DATA2GB |
| 30 NZD | 5 GB | 28 days | BUY DATA5GB |
APN/Internet Settings – Skinny Mobile
- Name: SkinnyData
- APN: wapaccess.co.nz
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Warehouse Mobile
Warehouse Mobile is a mobile brand by The Warehouse. It is a 2degrees MVNO.
To learn about Warehouse Mobile's frequencies, jump back to 2degrees' frequencies.
This is what you will learn about Warehouse Mobile:
* Coverage
* How to Get a Warehouse Mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – Warehouse Mobile
Warehouse Mobile is a 2degrees MVNO, meaning Warehouse Mobile uses the 2degrees network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.
To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with Warehouse Mobile, jump to the 2degrees Coverage section.
SIM Card Price – Warehouse Mobile
You can buy a Warehouse Mobile SIM card for 1 NZD with 5 NZD credit or 16 NZD with 16 NZD credit in The Warehouse or Warehouse Stationery stores.
You may have to call 800 to activate your Warehouse Mobile SIM card.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Warehouse Mobile
Warehouse Mobile top-up vouchers are sold in The Warehouse or Warehouse Stationery stores and many other establishments, such as kiosks, gas stations, and dairies.
The following top-up options are available:
| Top-Up | Validity |
|---|---|
| 5 NZD | 90 days |
| 10 NZD | 90 days |
| 15 NZD | 90 days |
| 20 NZD | 90 days |
| 25 NZD | 90 days |
| 30 NZD | 90 days |
| 40 NZD | 90 days |
| 50 NZD | 90 days |
To top up your Warehouse Mobile SIM card, dial *101*VoucherCode# or call 801 and follow the instructions.
For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *101*123456#.
You can also recharge online with debit and credit cards. However, only New Zealand-issued cards are accepted.
Dial *100# or text BAL to 801 to check your Warehouse Mobile balance.
You can also top up and check your balance on the My Warehouse Mobile app (Android/iOS).
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Warehouse Mobile
Warehouse Mobile has two data-featured plans: Combo (as the name implies) & Packs (add-ons).
Combo – Warehouse Mobile
The Combo plans are combo bundles with data, minutes, and SMS.
To activate a Combo plan, text the Activation Code to 801:
| Price | Data | Local/International Minutes 1 | Local/International SMS 2 | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 NZD | 500 MB | 200 minutes | Unlimited | 31 days | Buy 12COMBO |
| 16 NZD | 1.25 GB | 200 minutes | Unlimited | 31 days | Buy 16COMBO |
| 38 NZD | 5 GB | 200 minutes | Unlimited | 31 days | Buy 38COMBO |
1 to Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, England (UK), Germany, India, Israel, Malaysia, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Scotland (UK), Singapore, South Korea, United States, Wales (UK)
2 to Australia only
Unused data will roll over and can be stored for up to 90 days.
Multiple Combo plans can be activated simultaneously.
Packs – Warehouse Mobile
The Packs are data, call, or text add-ons. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.
Text the Activation Code to 801 to activate Packs:
| Price | Data | Local/International Minutes 1 | Local/International SMS 2 | Validity | Activation Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 NZD | N/A | 200 minutes | N/A | 31 days | Buy 4Talk |
| 4 NZD | N/A | N/A | Unlimited | 31 days | Buy 4Text |
| 4 NZD | 500 MB | N/A | N/A | 31 days | Buy 4Data |
| 8 NZD | 1.25 GB | N/A | N/A | 31 days | Buy 8Data |
| 30 NZD | 5 GB | N/A | N/A | 31 days | Buy 30Data |
1 to Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, England (UK), Germany, India, Israel, Malaysia, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Scotland (UK), Singapore, South Korea, United States, Wales (UK)
2 to Australia only
Unused data will roll over and can be stored for up to 90 days.
APN/Internet Settings – Warehouse Mobile
- Name: Warehouse Mobile
- APN: warehouse
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Other Ways to Stay Connected When Traveling in New Zealand
Getting a New Zealand SIM card is the best way to stay connected in the country. You have learned that SIM cards are cheap, plans are rather generous, and speeds are blazing fast.
But sometimes, getting a local SIM card is not possible.
Perhaps you have a SIM-lock phone. Maybe the mobile operator you prefer to go with does not support the frequencies your phone uses, or you cannot be bothered to deal with SIM card registration in every country you are visiting.
Luckily, there are other ways to get online when in New Zealand.
However, these methods may be more expensive than getting a SIM card from the local mobile operators.
International Roaming
International roaming is the most convenient way to stay connected when traveling in other countries because you do not have to buy a new SIM card, have to deal with SIM card registration regulations, nor have multiple phone numbers to deal with.
However, international roaming has proven to be expensive in many cases, especially compared to buying local SIM cards. That is why many travelers are not fond of international roaming.
International roaming has its pros and cons. However, it is important to know how it works. This in-depth guide explains it all.
Find out whether your mobile operator has attractive roaming rates for New Zealand here.
Using an International SIM Card or Travel SIM Card
International SIM cards are SIM cards made for the traveler in mind. Using them is often cheaper than international roaming.
However, they are almost always more expensive than using a local SIM card.
There are many other advantages and disadvantages of getting international SIM cards, which you can learn about here.
Using a Mobile Hotspot (Pocket WIFI)
Mobile hotspots, or pocket WIFI, are small devices that connect to the local operators of the country you are visiting.
Mobile hotspots are ideal for families or those traveling in a large group, as they allow you to connect multiple devices to one hotspot without the need of each traveler having to buy a SIM card.
You can either buy a mobile hotspot or rent one.
The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in New Zealand
Getting a SIM card from 2degrees or Vodafone would do you well when considering a New Zealand card.
Local Prepaid SIM Cards in Other Oceanian Countries
Visiting other countries in Oceania? Check out my Oceania SIM card buying guide, covering other Oceanian nations, such as:
Going to other places around the world? Then you should also check out my sim card buying guides for other destinations around the world.
Next Steps to Enhance Your Travel Experiences
Looking for the next steps to enhance your phone travel experiences? Here is what to do:
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Learn About Your Phone Travel Options
You can buy local prepaid SIM cards, international SIM cards, mobile hotspots, or roam internationally.
Each of these options has its pros and cons. Learn more about them, and find the best option for you.
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