eSIM data plans for New Zealand

Two kinds of plan cover New Zealand: a set amount of gigabytes on Vodafone's 4G/5G network, or a daily unlimited plan on Spark NZ's 3G/4G network. The choice comes down to how you use data more than how long you're staying.

Gigabytes or unlimited by day

The fixed data plans run from 1GB over a week to 50GB over a month, so a short weekend trip and a month of steady use are both covered by picking the right size. They suit anyone who checks maps, messages and email without heavy streaming. The unlimited plans are priced per day instead, from a single day up to thirty, and suit someone who wants to stream video, make video calls, or simply not think about how much they've used. Each one carries a fair use policy, with speed reduced for the rest of the day once a daily amount of use is passed.

Buying ahead of your trip

Validity starts the first time the eSIM connects to a network in New Zealand, not on the day you buy it or install it. That means you can install any of these plans before you fly and it will sit ready, with the countdown only beginning once you land and connect. New Zealand also asks every arriving traveller, citizens included, to complete the New Zealand Traveller Declaration before landing, a free online arrival declaration that can be filled in up to 24 hours ahead through the NZTD website or app.

If you use up your data

On the fixed data plans, once the data is used the plan stops, and a top-up on the same eSIM brings it straight back, so a 5GB or 10GB plan can be extended rather than replaced. Starting with a smaller size and adding more only if the trip calls for it is straightforward.

Hotspot and tethering

Every plan, fixed data or unlimited, allows hotspot and tethering, so the eSIM in your phone can share its connection with a laptop or tablet when needed.