Thinking of visiting New Zealand?
And do not wish to spend hundreds or even thousands on international roaming costs?
Getting a New Zealand SIM card will be the cheapest way to stay connected in the country.
So, which SIM cards are available, and how much do they cost?
Additionally, where can you get them, and is 5G NR available in the country?
I will answer all these questions in this guide.
But here is a quick answer:
You can get a New Zealand SIM card for as little as 2 NZD (1.20 USD) from Skinny Mobile & 5 NZD (2.95 USD) from Spark, One NZ (formerly Vodafone New Zealand) & 2degrees in their stores and resellers, like convenience stores and grocery stores. SIM cards are also sold at various airports, including Auckland Airport (AKL), Christchurch Airport (CHC), Queenstown Airport (ZQN) & Wellington International Airport (WLG).
New Zealand has three mobile operators and two Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs).
Below is an overview of their starter packs, prices, inclusion of minutes and SMS, whether an eSIM variant is available or not & if the mobile operator allows prepaid customers to use their 5G NR networks.
SIM Card | Starter Packs 1 | Prices | Data | Minutes | SMS | eSIM | 5G |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Spark New Zealand | 5 | 10 NZD – 129 NZD EUR | 0 – Unlimited | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
One NZ | 5 | 15 NZD – 99 NZD | 0 – 100 GB | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
2degrees | 1 | 5 NZD | N/A | No | No | Yes | Yes |
Skinny Mobile | 4 | 2 NZD – 88 NZD | 0 – 20 GB | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
Warehouse Mobile | 2 | 5 NZD & 15 NZD | 0 & 1.25 GB | Yes | Yes | No | No |
1 may include tourist SIM cards
You can get a New Zealand SIM card in the stores of these mobile operators but also from resellers.
As mentioned, they are also sold at airports like Auckland (ALK), Christchurch (CHC), Queenstown (ZQN) & Wellington (WLG).
For now, let's explore these New Zealand SIM cards.
Original publication: 16th of February 2020. Last updated: 6th of March 2024.
Table of Contents
What is the Best SIM Card in New Zealand?
New Zealand has three mobile operators and two Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) offering prepaid services easily accessible to travelers:
- Spark New Zealand
- One NZ New Zealand (formerly Vodafone New Zealand)
- 2degrees New Zealand
- Skinny Mobile (Spark New Zealand MVNO)
- Warehouse Mobile (2degrees New Zealand MVNO)
Nowadays, I do not go out of my way to test and review MVNOs because I spend that time testing travel eSIMs instead (like the ones for New Zealand).
Instead, I created dedicated guides for unpopular MVNOs (the one with a link in the list above) instead of including them in this guide (to save reading time).
But you can still click the MVNO links above if you are interested in them.
Anyone is allowed to buy a New Zealand SIM card, including tourists and visitors, from Spark, One NZ (formerly Vodafone New Zealand), 2degrees & Skinny Mobile offering prepaid services without restrictions.
- Find out which countries have SIM card registration regulations and what is required from you (lookup tool)
Where Can You Buy a New Zealand SIM Card (+Prices)?
You can get a New Zealand SIM card in Spark (also for Skinny Mobile), One NZ (formerly Vodafone New Zealand) & 2degrees stores. Resellers, like post offices, newsstands & grocery stores, also sell SIM cards. Some airports may sell (tourist) SIM cards (at higher prices).
You can expect to pay the following for New Zealand SIM cards:
- Spark New Zealand: 5 NZD
- One NZ New Zealand (formerly Vodafone New Zealand): 5 NZD
- 2degrees New Zealand: 5 NZD
- Skinny Mobile: 2 NZD
The following New Zealand mobile operators also have SIM cards targeting tourists:
- Spark New Zealand: 29 NZD, 49 NZD, 79 NZD & 129 NZD (Travel SIM)
- 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.
Use the Wise Currency Converter tool (free) for up-to-date NZD (New Zealand Dollar) to your currency (let's say USD – US Dollars) exchange rates.
For reference, below are some exchange rates between NZD and USD (US Dollars):
- 1 NZD = 0.60 USD
- 10 NZD = 5.95 USD
- 100 NZD = 59.25 USD
For any other currency, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
(Travel) eSIMs for New Zealand
The use of (travel) eSIMs has exploded in recent years.
Not only do more phones have eSIM capability (some US-sold iPhones are eSIM-only), but the number of providers adopting technology has proliferated as well.
This includes local mobile operators offering eSIM and platforms selling eSIMs (travel eSIMs).
If you want a local New Zealand eSIM, you can get one from Spark & 2degrees.
If you do not wish to deal with registration for whatever reason, like privacy, consider getting a travel eSIM for New Zealand.
Many eSIM providers have eSIMs for New Zealand and even global eSIMs, which I discuss in my New Zealand eSIM buying guide.
Here is a quick introduction to your New Zealand travel eSIM options:
- Airalo: Nzcom (New Zealand only) & Discover+ (130 countries worldwide + up to 200 worldwide minutes & 200 worldwide SMS)
- Alosim: New Zealand
- Holafly: New Zealand – unlimited data eSIMs
- Nomad: New Zealand
Use these discount codes when getting one of these travel eSIMs:
- Airalo: APR15 for 15% off (if you have never bought an Airalo eSIM before). Otherwise, APR10 for 10% off (for existing users) – only the first 3000 users can redeem either discount code)
- Alosim: PTW for 5% off (as many times as you wish for as many eSIMs as you want)
- Holafly: PHONETRAVELWIZ for 5% off (as many times as you wish for as many eSIMs as you want)
- Nomad: ADU123 for 3 USD off (on your first-ever Nomad order only)
If you want to know about all the prices, data options & covered countries (for the regional and global eSIMs), check out my New Zealand eSIM buying guide.
New Zealand Prepaid SIM Cards Explored
Below, I will guide you through Spark New Zealand, One NZ New Zealand (formerly Vodafone New Zealand), 2degrees New Zealand & Skinny 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)
Let's see what New Zealand mobile operators can offer us.
Spark New Zealand
Spark New Zealand, just Spark, is the largest mobile operator in New Zealand.
It is also the oldest mobile operator in the country.
However, One NZ New Zealand is the largest in some quarters, so the competition between the two is fierce.
Spark uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: shut down since 2012
- 3G: 850 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1), 2300 MHz (Band 40) & 2600 MHz (Band 7)
- 5G NR: 2100 MHz (n1) & 3500 MHz/3600 MHz (n78)
- VoLTE: Yes
- VoWiFi: No
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 the best coverage in New Zealand.
This was also confirmed by Opensignal.
Below is Spark's coverage map produced by Speedtest:
However, click here to see Spark's official coverage map.
SIM Card Price – Spark New Zealand
You can get a Spark SIM card for 5 NZD in Spark stores and from resellers, like grocery stores, gas stations & convenience stores. SIM cards are also sold at Auckland Airport (AKL) and Christchurch International Airport (CHC).
If you are flying into Auckland- or Wellington Airport, click on the links above to read about the SIM card options at those airports to save some reading time.
Short-term visitors and tourists can also get the Spark Travel SIM – Spark's tourist offering.
The following four (previously five) Spark travel/tourist SIM cards are available:
Price 1 | Data | Local Minutes | International Minutes 2 | Local SMS | International SMS 2 | Validity |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
29 NZD | 2 GB | 200 minutes | 100 minutes | 200 SMS | 100 SMS | 3 months |
49 NZD | 10 GB | 200 minutes | 200 minutes | 200 SMS | 200 SMS | 3 months |
79 NZD | 50 GB | Unlimited | 200 minutes | Unlimited | 200 SMS | 3 months |
129 NZD | “Unlimited”, 100 GB 3 | Unlimited | 300 minutes | Unlimited | 300 SMS | 3 months |
1 you will be charged 25 NZD, 42 NZD, 68 NZD, or 112 NZD, respectively, if you buy your Spark Travel Pack in the duty-free area of Auckland Airport (AKL) or Christchurch International Airport (CHC)
2 to Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Portugal, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Thailand, the United Kingdom & the United States
3 100 GB high-speed data, then unlimited @ 1.2 Mbps (slow)
Do note that Spark Travel SIM cards cannot be renewed.
However, if you wish to keep your phone number after three months (validity of each Spark Travel SIM card) or replenish your data, call, or text allowance, you can get a regular Spark prepaid plan.
And all these tourist SIM cards allow for 5G NR access – free of charge.
- Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
It is also possible to get a Spark eSIM for the same price as a regular SIM card.
You should consider getting a travel eSIM for New Zealand because they can sometimes be cheaper than getting a SIM card from Spark.
Especially if you get an APAC (Asia-Pacific)-wide eSIM or a global eSIM.
I discuss various eSIM options of eSIM providers for New Zealand in my New Zealand eSIM buying guide, which are:
- Airalo: Nzcom (New Zealand only) & Discover+ (130 countries worldwide + minutes and SMS) – use code APR15 (15% off – first-time users only) or APR10 (10% off)
- Alosim: New Zealand – use code PTW (5% off – no limits)
- Holafly: New Zealand (unlimited data eSIMs) – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ (5% off – no limits)
- Nomad: New Zealand, APAC (up to 20 countries), SEA-Oceania (eight countries) & Global (up to 139 countries) – use code ADU123 (3 USD off – first-time users only)
As I said, check out my New Zealand eSIM buying guide for more information, as I have to continue with Spark for now.
Note that Spark offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and you have enabled it in the settings but no VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi) yet.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Spark New Zealand
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Spark New Zealand
Spark has three data-featured prepaid plans:
- Prepaid Value Packs (combo)
- Data Lovers
- Data Extras (add-on)
All Spark plans can be activated on the Spark NZ app.
I will list all the prices in NZD (New Zealand Dollar).
To convert NZD to your currency (let's say AUD – Australian Dollar) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
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 (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
Prepaid Value Packs can be activated on the Spark NZ app:
Price | Data | Social Media Data 2 | Local Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
20 NZD | 1.25 GB | N/A | 200 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days |
30 NZD | 2 GB | 2 GB | 300 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days |
50 NZD | 4 GB | 2 GB | 500 minutes | Unlimited 3 | 28 days |
80 NZD | “Unlimited”, 40 GB 1 | N/A | Unlimited 3 | Unlimited 3 | 28 days |
1 40 GB high-speed data, then unlimited @ 1.2 Mbps (slow)
2 for Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Spotify & Twitter
3 also to Australia
Unused data and minutes will roll over when your plan auto-renews or when you renew your plan before it expires.
However, you can only carry over a total of 3.5 GB and 500 minutes.
And data and calls in your carryover balance can roll over for up to 365 days.
Data Lovers – Spark New Zealand
The Data Lovers are, as the name implies, data plans (with 5G NR access).
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 for Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Spotify & Twitter
Unused data will roll over when your plan auto-renews or when you renew your plan before it expires.
However, you can only carry over a total of 3.5 GB.
And data in your carryover balance can roll over for up to 365 days.
Data Extras – Spark New Zealand
The Data Extras are data add-ons (with 5G NR access). They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.
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 |
6 NZD | Unlimited | 4 hours | App only |
9 NZD | 1 GB 1 | 28 days | BUY 9SOCIAL |
15 NZD | Unlimited | 24 hours | App only |
20 NZD | 1 GB | 28 days | BUY 20DATA |
25 NZD | 2 GB | 28 days | BUY 23DATA |
1 for Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Spotify & Twitter only
My Review – Spark New Zealand
I had the chance to try out Spark in late 2022.
While it is, for now, the largest mobile operator in New Zealand, it is the slowest and has the worst 4G/LTE coverage experience (according to Opensignal).
Moreover, it has the worst 5G NR coverage and speeds too.
It does not mean that Spark is bad… but there are better options out there, I have to say.
You can read my Spark review here.
APN/Internet Settings – Spark New Zealand
- Name: Spark Data
- APN: internet
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
One NZ (formerly Vodafone New Zealand)
One NZ, formerly Vodafone New Zealand, 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.
One NZ 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)
- VoLTE: Yes
- VoWiFi: Yes
This is what you will learn about One NZ:
* Coverage
* How to Get a One NZ SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Coverage – One NZ (formerly Vodafone New Zealand)
One NZ has extensive coverage throughout New Zealand.
Below is One NZ's coverage map produced by Speedtest:
However, click here to see One NZ's official coverage map.
SIM Card Price – One NZ (formerly Vodafone New Zealand)
You can get a One NZ SIM card for 5 NZD in One NZ stores and from resellers, like grocery stores, gas stations & convenience stores. SIM cards are also sold at Auckland Airport (AKL), Christchurch International Airport (CHC), Queenstown Airport (ZQN) & Wellington International Airport (WLG).
You may have read that One NZ SIM cards are available for 2 NZD instead. However, that only applies if you order one online… which can only be delivered to New Zealand addresses. Moverover, if you are flying into Auckland- or Wellington Airport, click on the links above to read about the SIM card options there.
Short-term visitors and tourists can also get the One NZ Travel Plans – One NZ’s tourist offering.
The following four (previously three) One NZ Travel Plans/tourist SIM cards are available:
Price 1 | Data | Local Minutes | International Minutes 2 | Local SMS | International SMS 2 | Validity |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
29 NZD | 2 GB | 200 minutes | Combined with call allowance | 200 SMS | Combined with text allowance | 30 days |
49 NZD | 10 GB | Unlimited | 200 minutes | Unlimited | 200 SMS | 60 days |
69 NZD | 40 GB | Unlimited | 200 minutes | Unlimited | 200 SMS | 60 days |
99 NZD | 100 GB | Unlimited | 250 minutes | Unlimited | 250 SMS | 60 days |
1 you will be charged 25 NZD, 43 NZD, 60 NZD, or 86 NZD, respectively, if you buy your One NZ Travel SIM in the duty-free area of Auckland Airport (AKL)
2 to Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Japan, Malaysia, the Netherlands (not for 29 NZD plan), Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Taiwan (not for 29 NZD plan), Thailand (not for 29 NZD plan), the United Kingdom & the United States
While these Travel SIM cards are available at airports, they can also be obtained at many One NZ stores and even some resellers.
And all these tourist SIM cards allow for 5G NR access – free of charge.
- Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
Vodafone has no eSIMs yet. However, they are coming mid-2022 in 2023. However, they (initially) will be for postpaid customers only.
You can consider getting a travel eSIM for New Zealand, which can, in specific scenarios, be cheaper than getting a SIM card from One NZ.
Especially if you get an APAC (Asia-Pacific) eSIM (for when you visit at least two or more supported Asian and Oceanian countries) or a global eSIM (for frequent travelers visiting multiple continents).
In my New Zealand eSIM buying guide, I analyze various eSIM options of eSIM providers I have tested extensively worldwide.
But I will introduce them here quickly:
- Airalo: Nzcom (New Zealand only) & Discover+ (130 countries worldwide + up to 200 worldwide minutes & 200 worldwide SMS) – use code APR15 (15% off – first-time users only) or APR10 (10% off)
- Alosim: New Zealand – use code PTW (5% off – no limits)
- Holafly: New Zealand (unlimited data) – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ (5% off – no limits)
- Nomad: New Zealand, APAC (up to 20 countries), SEA-Oceania (eight countries) & Global (109 or 139 countries, depending on the variant) – use code ADU123 (3 USD off – first-time users only)
Once again, check out my New Zealand eSIM buying guide to learn more about these eSIM options.
For now, I will continue with One NZ.
Note that One NZ offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and you have enabled it in the settings.
Oh, you can also use VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – One NZ (formerly Vodafone New Zealand)
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – One NZ (formerly Vodafone New Zealand)
One NZ has five data-featured prepaid plans:
- Prepay Combo
- MyFlex Prepay (customizable combo)
- Prepay Boost Data Add-Ons
- Extra Data for Travel Plans
- One NZ Pass (social media add-ons)
All One NZ plans can be activated on the My One New Zealand app.
I will list all the prices in NZD (New Zealand Dollar).
To convert NZD to your currency (let's say AUD – Australian Dollar) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Prepay Combo – One NZ (formerly Vodafone New Zealand)
The Prepay Combo plans are combo bundles with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
The following Prepay Combo plans are available, which can be activated on the My One NZ app:
Price | Data | Local/International Minutes 1 | Local/International SMS 1 | Validity |
---|---|---|---|---|
15 NZD | 1 GB | 100 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days |
20 NZD | 1.5 GB | 200 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days |
30 NZD | 3 GB | 300 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days |
40 NZD | 8 GB | 100 minutes | 100 SMS | 28 days |
1 also to Australia
MyFlex Prepay – One NZ (formerly Vodafone New Zealand)
MyFlex Prepay is a customizable plan allowing you to set how much data (with 5G NR access) 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 just 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 | 15 NZD | 17 NZD | 18 NZD | 20 NZD | 24 NZD | 27 NZD | 32 NZD | 37 NZD | 40 NZD | 42 NZD | 57 NZD | 67 NZD |
200 minutes | 14 NZD | 16 NZD | 18 NZD | 19 NZD | 21 NZD | 25 NZD | 28 NZD | 33 NZD | 38 NZD | 41 NZD | 43 NZD | 58 NZD | 68 NZD |
300 minutes | 17 NZD | 19 NZD | 21 NZD | 22 NZD | 24 NZD | 28 NZD | 31 NZD | 36 NZD | 41 NZD | 44 NZD | 46 NZD | 61 NZD | 71 NZD |
400 minutes | 20 NZD | 22 NZD | 24 NZD | 25 NZD | 27 NZD | 31 NZD | 34 NZD | 39 NZD | 44 NZD | 47 NZD | 49 NZD | 64 NZD | 74 NZD |
500 minutes | 22 NZD | 24 NZD | 26 NZD | 27 NZD | 29 NZD | 33 NZD | 36 NZD | 41 NZD | 46 NZD | 49 NZD | 51 NZD | 66 NZD | 76 NZD |
Unlimited | 25 NZD | 27 NZD | 29 NZD | 30 NZD | 32 NZD | 36 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 auto-renews or when you renew your plan before it expires.
However, you can only carry over a total of 35 GB and 500 minutes.
And data and calls in your carryover balance can roll over for up to 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.
Prepay Boost Data Add-Ons – One NZ (formerly Vodafone New Zealand)
The Prepay Boost Data Add-Ons are, as the name implies, data add-ons (with 5G NR access). They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.
Prepay Boost Data Add-Ons can only be purchased on the My One NZ 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 – One NZ (formerly Vodafone New Zealand)
The Extra Data for Travel Plans is, as the name implies, 2 GB data add-on valid for 60 days for the One NZ Travel Plans, costing 20 NZD.
Activation is done by texting BUY EXTRADATA to 756.
Price | Data | Validity | Activation Code |
---|---|---|---|
20 NZD | 2 GB | 60 days | BUY EXTRADATA |
The One NZ Passes (Chat/Music/Social/Video Pass) are unlimited data add-ons for select chat, music streaming, social media & video streaming apps. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.
One NZ passes can be activated on the My One NZ 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 for Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Snapchat, TikTok & Twitter
2 for Neon, Netflix, Sky Go, TVNZ OnDemand & Vodafone TV
3 for Apple Music, iHeartRadio, Rova, Spotify, SoundCloud & Tidal
4 for Facebook Messenger & WhatsApp
My Review – One NZ (formerly Vodafone New Zealand)
I had the chance to try out Vodafone in late 2022 before it rebranded to One NZ.
While it is, for now, the second-largest mobile operator in New Zealand, it is also the second-best performer (on paper) according to Opensignal and Speedtest.
What Vodafone does well is that it has the most extensive 5G NR reception.
However, its 5G NR speeds are often not remarkable (speeds you would expect on 4G/LTE or even 3G instead).
But Vodafone does have a large variety of data-featured prepaid plans, which is lovely for those who love choice.
And its SIM cards are sold at all international airports, which its competitors cannot say.
You can read my Vodafone review here.
APN/Internet Settings – One NZ (formerly Vodafone New Zealand)
- Name: VFNZ Internet
- APN: vodafone
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched. I suspect the APN name (VFNZ Internet) will change in the future, but the name can be whatever (even your name if you want) as long as the APN (vodafone) is set correctly.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
2degrees New Zealand
2degrees New Zealand, just 2degrees, is the smallest and youngest mobile operator in New Zealand.
While 2degrees may be small, it does have a high-quality network.
Right now, it has the fastest 5G NR network in New Zealand.
2degrees uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: N/A – shut down in 2018
- 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28), 900 MHz (Band 8) & 1800 MHz (Band 3)
- 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78)
- VoLTE: Yes (but not fore prepaid)
- VoWiFi: Yes
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 extensive coverage throughout New Zealand.
For some reason, 2degrees joined the 5G NR rollout party late.
While Spark New Zealand and Vodafone New Zealand already had 5G NR early/mid-2021, 2degrees launched its 5G NR network in early 2022 (although it was live in December 2021).
It may be behind now, but it could quickly catch up or be of better quality.
We just have to wait and see.
Below is 2degree's coverage map produced by Speedtest:
However, click here to see 2degree's official coverage map.
SIM Card Price – 2degrees New Zealand
You can get a 2degrees SIM card for 5 NZD in 2degrees stores and from resellers, like grocery stores, gas stations & convenience stores. SIM cards are also sold at Auckland Airport (AKL – Take Home) and near Christchurch International Airport (CHC – 2degrees Frankston, Noel Lemming & The Warehouse) and Wellington International Airport (WLG – The Warehouse).
If you are flying into Auckland- or Wellington Airport, click on the links above to read about the SIM card options at those airports to save some reading time.
Short-term visitors and tourists can order the 2degrees Visitor SIM – 2degrees tourist offering.
It is free and can be shipped worldwide for free too (no delivery costs).
You get 5 international minutes (fixed only) to call to Australia, Canada, China, Fiji, India, Ireland, Samoa, Tonga, the United Kingdom & the United States.
Besides this small benefit, the 2degrees Visitor SIM has no practical benefits, as you can only purchase regular plans with the SIM card.
Besides those perks, regular 2degrees plans can be purchased with the 2degrees Visitor SIM.
You may have to call 200 to activate your 2degrees SIM card.
- Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
It is also possible to get a 2degrees eSIM for the same price as a regular SIM card.
You may want to get a travel eSIM for New Zealand, which can be cheaper than getting a SIM card from 2degrees (in some cases).
Especially when getting an eSIM covering popular APAC (Asian-Pacific) destinations if you do not stay in just New Zealand or a global eSIM valid for up to a year if you want one eSIM to work practically worldwide.
My New Zealand eSIM buying guide analyzes various eSIM options of eSIM providers I have tested extensively worldwide.
Here is a quick introduction to them:
- Airalo: Nzcom (New Zealand only) & Discover+ (130 countries worldwide + call and text feature) – use code APR15 (15% off – first-time users only) or APR10 (10% off)
- Alosim: New Zealand – use code PTW (5% off – no limits)
- Holafly: New Zealand (these eSIMs have unlimited data) – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ (5% off – no limits)
- Nomad: New Zealand, APAC (15 or 20 countries, depending on the variant), SEA-Oceania (eight countries) & Global (up to 139 countries) – use code ADU123 (3 USD off – first-time users only)
For more information, such as the prices and data allowances, check out my New Zealand eSIM buying guide.
But let's continue with 2degrees for now.
Note that 2degrees offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and you have enabled it in the settings.
Oh, you can also use VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi).
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – 2degrees New Zealand
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – 2degrees New Zealand
2degrees has four data-featured prepaid plans:
- Fortnightly Prepay Plans (combo)
- Monthly Prepay Plans (combo)
- Data Clock (short-term unlimited data)
- Add-Ons
I will list all the prices in NZD (New Zealand Dollar).
To convert NZD to your currency (let's say AUD – Australian Dollar) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
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 (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
Fortnightly Prepay Plans can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 233:
Price | Data | Local Minutes 1 | Local 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 also to Australia
Unused data and minutes will roll over when your plan auto-renews or when you renew your plan before it expires.
Your carryover balance can roll over for up to one year.
Monthly Prepay Plans – 2degrees New Zealand
The Monthly Prepay Plans are combo bundles with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & 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 | 1.5 GB | 200 minutes | Unlimited | 1 month | 19plan1M |
30 NZD | 3 GB | 300 minutes | Unlimited | 1 month | 30plan1M |
45 NZD | 8 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1 month | 45plan1M |
60 NZD | 15 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1 month | 60plan1M |
85 NZD | 120 GB | Unlimited | Unlimited | 1 month | 85plan1M |
1 also to Australia
2 40 GB high-speed data, then unlimited @ 1.2 Mbps
Unused data and minutes will roll over when your plan auto-renews or when you renew your plan before it expires.
Your carryover balance can roll over for up to one year.
Data Clock – 2degrees New Zealand
The Data Clock is an unlimited data option (with 5G NR access) 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 from the 2degrees app called Data Clock (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 | Deactivation Code |
---|---|---|---|---|
10 NZD | 500 MB | 1 month | Buy 500MB | Stop 500MB |
20 NZD | 1 GB | 1 month | Buy 1GB | Stop 1GB |
50 NZD | 15 GB | 1 month | Buy 15GB | Stop 15GB |
99 NZD | 12 GB | 6 months | Buy 12GB | Stop 12GB |
Add-ons auto-renew. To cancel auto-renewal, text the Deactivation Code to 233.
My Review – 2degrees New Zealand
I had the chance to try out 2degrees in late 2022.
On paper, it has the best coverage and the fastest (5G NR) speeds.
And I can confirm this too based on my experiences in multiple cities.
- You can read my 2degrees review here.
APN/Internet Settings – 2degrees New Zealand
- Name: 2Degrees Internet
- 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 sub-brand.
It is a youth-focused brand. However, anyone, including the elderly, can get Skinny Mobile SIM cards 🤪.
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 sub-brand, 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 get a Skinny Mobile SIM card for 2 NZD in Spark New Zealand stores (yes, they are sold there too) and from resellers, like grocery stores, gas stations & convenience stores. SIM cards are also sold at Auckland Airport (AKL) and Queenstown Airport (ZQN).
If you are flying into Auckland- or Wellington Airport, click on the links above to read about the SIM card options at those airports to save some reading time.
Short-term visitors and tourists can also get the Skinny Mobile NZ Travel SIM – Skinny Mobile’s tourist offering.
The following three Skinny NZ Travel SIM cards are available:
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 to Bangladesh, Belgium, Canada, China, Denmark, France, Fiji, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Ireland, Italy, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Singapore, Sweden, Thailand, the United Kingdom & the United States
Skinny Mobile NZ Travel SIM cards can be purchased at:
Auckland Airport (Relay – arrivals hall)not anymore- I-SITE Princess Wharf
- I-SITE SkyCity
- Queenstown Airport (Paper Plus – main entrance)
You may have to call 456 to activate your Skinny Mobile SIM card.
Text My Number to 2424 to see your Skinny Mobile phone number.
- Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
Skinny Mobile has no eSIMs.
You should consider getting a travel eSIM for New Zealand because they can sometimes be cheaper than getting a SIM card from Skinny Mobile.
Especially if you get an APAC (Asia-Pacific)-wide eSIM or a global eSIM.
I discuss various eSIM options of eSIM providers for New Zealand in my New Zealand eSIM buying guide, which are:
- Airalo: Nzcom (New Zealand only) & Discover+ (130 countries worldwide + minutes and SMS) – use code APR15 (15% off – first-time users only) or APR10 (10% off)
- Alosim: New Zealand – use code PTW (5% off – no limits)
- Holafly: New Zealand (unlimited data eSIMs) – use code PHONETRAVELWIZ (5% off – no limits)
- Nomad: New Zealand, APAC (up to 20 countries), SEA-Oceania (eight countries) & Global (up to 139 countries) – use code ADU123 (3 USD off – first-time users only)
As I said, check out my New Zealand eSIM buying guide for more information, as I have to continue with Skinny Mobile for now.
Note that Skinny Mobile offers VoLTE (Voice over LTE (4G)) if your phone supports it and you have enabled it in the settings but no VoWiFi (Voice over WiFi) yet.
Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Skinny Mobile
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Skinny Mobile
Skinny Mobile has four data-featured prepaid plans:
- Weekly Prepay Mobile Plans (combo)
- 4-Week Prepay Mobile Plans (combo)
- Data Binge (short-term unlimited data)
- Data Add-Ons
All Skinny Mobile plans can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 2424.
I will list all the prices in NZD (New Zealand Dollar).
To convert NZD to your currency (let's say AUD – Australian Dollar) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.
Click 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 bundles with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & 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 1 | Unlimited 2 | Unlimited 2 | 7 days | BUY20PLAN |
1 10 GB high-speed data, then unlimited @ 1.2 Mbps
2 also to Australia
Unused data and minutes will roll over when your plan auto-renews or when you renew your plan before it expires.
To disable auto-renewal, text STOP to 2424.
4-Week Prepay Mobile Plans – Skinny Mobile
The 4-Week Prepay Mobile Plans are combo bundles with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.
4-Week Prepay Mobile Plans can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 2424:
Price | Data | Local Minutes 1 | Local SMS 1 | Validity | Activation Code |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
9 NZD | 250 MB | 100 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days | 9PLAN |
17 NZD | 1.50 GB | 200 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days | 17PLAN |
27 NZD | 3 GB | 300 minutes | Unlimited | 28 days | 27PLAN |
40 NZD | 5 GB 2 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 28 days | 40PLAN |
50 NZD | 15 GB 2 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 28 days | 50PLAN |
70 NZD | 40 GB 2 | Unlimited | Unlimited | 28 days | 70PLAN |
1 also to Australia
2 4.5/12/40 GB high-speed data, then unlimited @ 1.2 Mbps
Unused data and minutes will roll over when your plan auto-renews or when you renew your plan before it expires.
To disable auto-renewal, text STOP to 2424.
Data Binge – Skinny Mobile
The Data Binge are unlimited data options (with 5G NR access) 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 app or by texting DATABINGE to 2424:
Price | Data | Validity |
---|---|---|
0.50 NZD | Unlimited | 10 minutes |
1 NZD | Unlimited | 1 hour |
3 NZD | Unlimited | 4 hours |
5 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 (with 5G NR access). 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: Data
- APN: wapaccess.co.nz
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in New Zealand
Getting a SIM card from One NZ or 2degrees would do you well when considering a New Zealand card.
Going to other places around the world? You should also check out my SIM card buying guides for other destinations worldwide.