Best eSIM for New Zealand in 2025
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Explore New Zealand with an eSIM. This technology makes it easy to stay connected while you enjoy coastal views, urban scenes, and natural landscapes. Whether you're visiting Milford Sound or Wellington, an eSIM offers a simple way to manage your mobile connectivity without swapping physical SIM cards.
With the expertise of the Cybernews research team, I’ve analyzed top eSIM options and narrowed them down to the 7 best eSIMs for New Zealand in 2025. In this article, I compare top 7 providers to help you find the most reliable and affordable choice, ensuring seamless connectivity wherever your travels take you.
I ranked the providers based on network coverage across regions, pricing, features, and customer support. Whether you need constant connectivity or occasional access, continue reading to find the perfect solution.
Best 5 eSIMs for New Zealand – shortlist
- Saily – overall the best eSIM New Zealand provider in 2025
- Airalo – New Zealand eSIM with six top-up plans
- Jetpac – most budget-friendly eSIM for New Zealand
- aloSIM – best-prepaid data plans NZ
- Holafly – best eSIM for unlimited data in New Zealand
Things to consider before choosing an eSIM for travel in New Zealand
Choosing the best eSIM for New Zealand travel can be tricky with so many options available. To make it easier, I’ve identified the most important factors to help you select the right one and avoid common issues like compatibility or coverage gaps.
- Coverage in New Zealand. Ensure the eSIM provider offers a specific plan for New Zealand or a regional plan that covers the country. Some providers may offer global plans, but they might not provide optimal coverage or pricing for New Zealand.
- Compatibility. Verify that your smartphone or tablet supports eSIM technology by checking your device settings or the manufacturer's website.
- Data plans. Select a plan that matches your usage, whether for light browsing, streaming, or heavy data consumption. Ensure the subscription covers your needs without unexpected fees.
- Activation process. Review how easy it is to activate the eSIM. A simple setup can save time and prevent connectivity issues while abroad.
- Validity period. Check the duration the plan remains active. A plan that matches your travel time can prevent unnecessary renewals or interruptions.
- Price. Compare pricing structures to find a cost-effective option that offers the required data and features without hidden costs
The best eSIMs for New Zealand travel – our detailed list
The most important thing is finding an eSIM for New Zealand travel that will meet your needs. That’s why we thoroughly tested and evaluated some of the most popular eSIM providers. We focused on their coverage, pricing, supported networks, and other key factors. Find our detailed list below.
1. Saily – the best eSIM for New Zealand in 2025
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | 200+ countries and regions, including New Zealand |
| Supported networks: | LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G |
| Starting price: | $3.79/week |
Saily is the best overall eSIM for New Zealand in 2025, offering unbeatable value by combining affordable pricing with top-notch quality. It delivers fast, reliable internet at a great price, ensuring travelers stay connected without breaking the bank. Check out the key features below, or read our full Saily review for more details.
Accessibility. While Saily doesn’t disclose which NZ networks it partners with, it promises reliable connections from New Zealand’s best networks. Also, it supports LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G networks, which means you’ll enjoy fast internet connections, depending on the network coverage in your area.
eSIM plans. If you decide that Saily is the right provider, you can choose one of its five eSIM plans: 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, or 20GB. Additionally, there's a regional plan covering 18 Asia-Oceania countries. However, all of its deals are also data-only and you can’t make phone calls or send messages without additional charges.
Saily New Zealand pricing as of March 2025Customer support. Saily is always available, offering 24/7 live chat, a ticketing system, FAQs, and a help center. It responds extremely quickly and provides detailed answers and guidelines.
Pricing. Ultimately, Saily is the second-cheapest eSIM provider on our list. You can enhance your New Zealand journey for only $3.79/week for the 1GB plan.
| Data allowance | Duration | Price |
| 1 GB | 7 days | $3.79 |
| 3 GB | 30 days | $9.49 |
| 5 GB | 30 days | $15.19 |
| 10 GB | 30 days | $25.64 |
| 20 GB | 30 days | $40.84 |
2. Airalo – incredible New Zealand eSIM with top-up options
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | 200+ countries and regions, including New Zealand |
| Supported networks: | LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G |
| Starting price: | $4.50/week |
Airalo has fantastic global coverage in 200+ countries and regions. So, aside from using it in New Zealand, you can also get a regional plan that includes Australia. If you want to learn more about its worldwide offerings, check out our full Airalo Review.
Accessibility. Airalo connects you to UpTheWahs from One NZ, allowing you to enjoy decent LTE speeds. Although this is not the fastest internet connection available, it is stable and moderately quick.
eSIM plans. The eSIM plans offer 1GB, 2GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, and 20GB of data. Depending on your chosen plan, they last 7, 15, or 30 days and are all data-only.
Customer support. Another great perk is that you’ll get 24/7 customer support via live chat. There is also email support, a blog page, knowledge base, or FAQ. All of these channels are superb for solving any issue that appears.
Pricing. Last but not least, Airalo offers pretty affordable prices. For example, you can get 1GB of data for $4.50/week.
| Data allowance | Duration | Price |
| 1 GB | 7 days | $4.50 |
| 2G | 15 days | $8.50 |
| 3 GB | 30 days | $11.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 days | $16.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 days | $27.00 |
| 20 GB | 30 days | $44.00 |
3. Jetpac – cheapest eSIM for NZ
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | 200+ countries, including New Zealand |
| Supported networks: | LTE, 3G, and 4G |
| Starting price: | $1 for four days |
Jetpac is a remarkably affordable eSIM provider for New Zealand travelers, offering local network access and a range of data plans tailored to your needs. Check out our full Jetpac review for more details.
Accessibility. Jetpac supports two New Zealand networks. More precisely, you can use either Spark New Zealand or 2degrees. This depends on the coverage in the part of New Zealand where you’ll be staying.
eSIM plans. There are a few plans that you can purchase if you decide to go for Jetpac. You can get 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 15GB, 20GB, 30GB, or 40GB of data. Just remember that Jetpac doesn’t come with an international phone number.
Customer support. If you encounter a problem, you can contact the experts via live chat or email or simply find an answer in the extensive FAQs section.
Pricing. Lastly, Jetpac is the most affordable eSIM provider for your trip to New Zealand. If you’re a new user, you will pay only $1 for the 1GB data plan that lasts four days.
| Data allowance | Duration | Price |
| 1 GB | 4 days | $1.00 |
| 3 GB | 7 days | $8.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 days | $10.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 days | $18.00 |
| 15 GB | 30 days | $24.00 |
| 20 GB | 30 days | $30.00 |
| 30 GB | 30 days | $44.00 |
| 40 GB | 30 days | $54.00 |
4. aloSIM – 5G New Zealand eSIM with an international phone number
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | 200+ countries and regions, including New Zealand |
| Supported networks: | LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G |
| Starting price: | $4.50/week |
aloSIM is a top choice for New Zealand, standing out with its VoIP-based international phone number through its sister app Hushed. Beyond this, it offers similar plans to other providers. Check out our full aloSIM review for more details.
Accessibility. In New Zealand, aloSIM has partnered with some of the best network providers. Enjoy the fast internet services of Vodafone NZ. You can also use LTE or 5G connections, depending on availability and network coverage in your area.
eSIM plans. We like that aloSIM offers 7 different eSIM plans, allowing you to pick the most suitable one for your needs. More specifically, you’ll be able to pick from its 1GB, 2GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, and 20GB data plans, as well as an unlimited GB plan. On top of that, each offer comes with a phone number that allows you to call your friends and family or send them text messages.
Customer support. On customer care, aloSIM has you covered. You can contact the 24/7 live chat, email support, or the thorough FAQs section.
Pricing. You can purchase the starting aloSIM deal for $4.50/week and get 1GB of data.
| Data allowance | Duration | Price |
| 1 GB | 7 days | $4.50 |
| 2 GB | 15 days | $8.50 |
| 3 GB | 30 days | $11.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 days | $16.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 days | $27.00 |
| Unlimited data | 10 days | $35.00 |
| 20 GB | 30 days | $44.00 |
5. Holafly – top choice for unlimited data in New Zealand
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | 200+ countries, including New Zealand |
| Supported networks: | LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G |
| Starting price: | $6.90 for one day |
If you want to stay connected with no data limit in New Zealand, Holafly is a great option. Check our full Holafly review for an even broader perspective on this provider.
Accessibility. Holafly is affiliated with the various highest-quality networks, giving its users guaranteed internet stability and reliable connection. It supports several generations of networks (4G, LTE, and up) right down to every corner of the country.
eSIM plans. Holafly’s unlimited data plans are perfect for the traveler who wants to experience never having to worry about finishing data. If you heavily depend on either using GPS navigation, sharing moments on social media, or streaming while on the go, Holafly is a great option.
Customer support. The customer support offers 24/7 assistance via live chat, email, and an extensive FAQ section. Their team is responsive and well-equipped to help resolve any issues quickly, whether you need technical guidance or help setting up your eSIM.
Pricing. Though the price might be slightly higher than other providers on the list, the added value of unlimited data makes the difference worth it.
| Data allowance | Duration | Price |
| Unlimited data | 1 day | $6.55 |
| Unlimited data | 3 days | $12.25 |
| Unlimited data | 7 days | $28.40 |
| Unlimited data | 15 days | $48.35 |
| Unlimited data | 30 days | $71.15 |
6. GigSky – best for flexible international travel beyond New Zealand
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | 200+ countries, including New Zealand |
| Supported networks: | LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G |
| Starting price: | $4.49 for seven days |
GigSky stands out for its flexible international plans, making it a good option for travelers visiting multiple countries beyond New Zealand. For more details, check out our full GigSky review.
Accessibility. With LTE/4G/5G speed, GigSky provides fast and stable internet for most locations. GigSky’s various regional and global plans allow you to go from one country to another without needing to obtain a new eSIM for each destination.
eSIM plans. GigSky’s plans are data only, meaning that voice calls and message exchanges need to happen through apps like Whatsapp and Skype. It offers plans that extensively cover New Zealand, but what makes it stand out is the capability of working in many countries with its Asia Pacific bundle.
Customer support. GigSky has strong customer support in the form of email and a help center. 24/7 live chat is not supported by the platform but you have access to extensive setup guides and FAQ.
Pricing. GigSky is not the cheapest provider for sure, but the price is justified by the ability to keep one eSIM with you in multiple countries rather than having a hassle switching providers.
| Data allowance | Duration | Price |
| 100 MB | 7 days | $0.00 |
| 1 GB | 7 days | $4.49 |
| 3 GB | 15 days | $9.34 |
| 5 GB | 30 days | $13.59 |
| 10 GB | 30 days | $22.94 |
| Unlimited data | 7 days | $22.94 |
| Unlimited data | 15 days | $41.64 |
7. Nomad – NZ eSIM with numerous plans
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | 200+ countries and regions, including New Zealand |
| Supported networks: | LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G |
| Starting price: | $4.50/week |
Nomad is one of the most flexible eSIM providers in New Zealand, offering a wide range of options from unlimited custom plans to regional and fixed data plans. For a deeper look at how it stacks up globally, check out our full Nomad review.
Accessibility. Nomad collaborates with Spark NZ, meaning you can expect good internet access and widespread cellular network availability in New Zealand.
eSIM plans. Nomad offers Regular Plans with fixed data limits of 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 15GB, and 20G, and they also offer quite cheap unlimited data plans that let you customize your data based on how long you need it and how much high-speed data you want each day. Once you use up your daily high-speed limit, you can still browse at a lower speed.
Customer support. Although Nomad lacks live chat support on their website, you can submit a ticket and get in touch with their support team via email. As a result, you’ll solve your issue in a few hours.
Pricing. Nomad is pretty cost-efficient, allowing you to buy the 1GB data plan for $4.50/week.
| Data allowance | Duration | Price |
| 1 GB | 7 days | $4.50 |
| 3 GB | 30 days | $9.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 days | $11.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 days | $13.00 |
| 15 GB | 30 days | $20.00 |
| 20 GB | 30 days | $23.00 |
Best eSIM providers for New Zealand compared
If you’re only here for the main features that each of the best eSIM providers offers, we've got you. Let’s briefly go over through our comparison table and see what you’ll get from the best NZ eSIM providers:
| Brand | Rating | Plan duration | Data sharing | Unlimited data | Calls | GB per plan | Support | Compatibility | Price |
| Saily | 7 and 30 days | Yes | No | No | 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, and 20GB | In English via knowledgebase, email, and FAQs | iOS, Android, Windows | $3.79-$48.84 | |
| Airalo | 7, 15, and 30 days | Yes | No | No | 1GB, 2GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, and 20GB | In English via live chat | iOS, Android, Windows | $4.50-$44.00 | |
| Jetpac | 4, 7, and 30 days | Yes | No | No | 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 15GB, 20GB, 30GB, and 40GB | In English via live chat | iOS, Android, Windows | $1.00-$54.00 | |
| aloSIM | 7, 15, and 30 days | Yes | No | Yes | 1GB, 2GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB and Unlimited GB | In English via live chat | iOS, Android, Windows | $4.50-$44.00 | |
| Holafly | Free choice | Yes | Yes | No | Unlimited | Email, live-chat, FAQ section | iOS, Android, Windows | $6.90-$139.90 | |
| GigSky | 7, 15 and 30 days | Yes | Yes | No | 100MB, 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, unlimited | Email, help center, setup guides, FAQ | iOS, Android, Windows | $4.49-$41.64 | |
| Nomad | 7 and 30 days | Yes | No | No | 1GB, 5GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB, unlimited | In English via the help center, email, and FAQs | iOS, Android, Windows | $4.50-$48.00 |
How we tested and ranked these eSIMs for New Zealand
With the help of the CyberNews research team, I reviewed various eSIMs based on strict criteria to determine the best eSIMs for New Zealand. Here’s a quick glimpse into the factors we considered for our ranking:
| Coverage | Does it have regional and local plans? |
| Network connection | Does it support 4G and 5G networks? Is connecting to the network is fast and seamless? |
| Compatibility | Is it compatible with iOS and Android? Does it support multiple devices? |
| Data plans | Does it offer a variety of flexible data options to meet different usage needs? |
| Price | Is it budget-friendly? Is everything included in the price? |
- Coverage (25%). The first thing that I focused on is the coverage of the eSIM. More precisely, I’m interested if there are New Zealand plans and whether they’re only local or you can find regional and global ones.
- Network connection (25%). Another significant thing is the network connection. Nobody wants old mobile connection technology, so I list only those eSIMs with LTE, 3G, 4G, and 5G connections.
- Data plans (20%). I compared the variety and flexibility of data plans offered, ensuring options for different data usage needs and durations.
- Compatibility (15%). The compatibility of the eSIMs is the next factor I consider. A wider range of compatibility makes it more likely that you’ll be able to use it on your specific phone. However, remember that not all older devices will support eSIMs.
- Price (15%). Last but not least, I must consider the price. As this is often a deal breaker, I pick only eSIM providers with budget-friendly costs. As you can see, all the providers we’ve listed cost around $4.50/week
Benefits of using eSIM New Zealand
Travelers to New Zealand in 2025 can use eSIMs for easy and reliable connectivity. Key benefits include:
- Flexible data plans. You can choose from various eSIM data packages that fit both short trips and longer stays.
- Security. Public Wi-Fi isn’t always safe, but with an eSIM, you can use prepaid mobile data for secure online banking, maps, and communication.
- No need for a physical SIM card. eSIM is activated via an app, so there's no need to remove your current SIM card.
- Instant data access. Go online immediately upon arrival, avoiding delays at airport stores or reliance on unreliable Wi-Fi.
- Effortless activation. Skip the trip to a store – activate your eSIM directly from your phone’s app.
- Affordable connectivity. Save up to 90% compared to roaming fees, with plans starting at $3.79/week – cheaper than local SIM cards.
Now, let’s see the differences between a physical SIM and an eSIM:
| Operator | Price | eSIM provider | Price |
| O2 | $6/day | Saily | From $3.79/week |
| Vodafone | $6/day | Airalo | From $4.50/week |
| Three | $5/day | Jetpac | From $1 for four days |
| AT&T | $2.05/MB | aloSIM | From $4.50/week |
| Rogers | $15/10MB | Holafly | From $6.90 |
| Telstra | $3/MB | GigSky | From $4.49 |
| Optus | $1/MB | Nomad | From $4.50/week |
How to Manage Your eSIM
To have seamless eSIM usage, you must learn how to manage your eSIM. There are a few tips and tricks that you can implement, such as monitoring data usage, switching profiles, and topping up data.
More precisely, you can monitor your data usage directly from the eSIM app, or if you have an iPhone, you can add a widget showing how much data you have left for use. You can also easily top up your data amount. You can do this from the app’s settings, where you’ll find a top-up or similar option.
Lastly, you can easily switch profiles by opening your phone’s settings. Then, you need to find ‘Connections’ or ‘Network & internet’ and select which eSIM profile you would like to use.
Does my phone support an eSIM?
Most smartphones launched after 2019 are compatible with an eSIM. If you're not sure whether your phone supports it, we’ve got a handy guide to check eSIM compatibility. For a quick recap, here are the main ways to find out:
Samsung has widely adopted eSIM technology across its flagship devices. Models such as the Galaxy S21 series and newer, as well as foldable phones like the Galaxy Z Flip and Fold series, are eSIM-compatible. To verify compatibility, navigate to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager and look for the option to add an eSIM. Alternatively, check for IMEI (eSIM) in your phone's settings.
Not all iPhones support eSIMs, but models starting from the iPhone XR and later are equipped with this feature. For example, the iPhone 15 series primarily uses eSIMs and lacks a physical SIM slot. Older models like the iPhone 6, 7, and 8 do not support eSIMs. To check compatibility, refer to Apple’s official list of supported devices.
How to activate an eSIM in New Zealand
Need help activating your eSIM? I’ve got you covered. There are 3 main methods to activate your eSIM, depending on your provider.
This is one of the most common ways to activate eSIM. Here’s how you can do it:
- Sign up and choose a plan that suits your needs. I recommend Saily eSIM. Get 5% OFF for any plan
- Download and install the app from your eSIM provider
- Tap activate in the app to start the installation
The eSIM will be automatically installed on your device. You might need to adjust some settings to complete the activation.
QR-based installation is similar to the app-based method, but instead of using a button to activate, you'll scan a QR code. Here's how it works:
- Select a data plan to purchase
- Download your eSIM provider’s app
- After purchase, you will receive a QR code via email, along with clear instructions for installation and activation
- Scan the QR code to begin the process
- To activate the eSIM, set it as your primary data SIM and enable roaming
While less common, manual eSIM installation is still an option with some providers. Though it involves a few more steps, it’s still fairly straightforward:
- Purchase an eSIM plan directly from your provider’s website or app
- You'll get an eSIM activation code, along with an SM-DP+ address and additional details
- For iOS devices, go to Settings > Mobile Data, then input the provided eSIM details.
- For Android, navigate to Settings > Network and Internet, and look for the option to add a new eSIM manually
Providers will typically offer detailed instructions on setting up your eSIM. I recommend following their specific guide to ensure a smooth activation process.
The specific instructions will differ according to your particular device. We've got you covered if you need help using your eSIM on a Samsung device. Alternatively, if you want a hand with setting up your eSIM on your iPhone, we also have a guide for that.
Best eSIM for New Zealand: final thoughts
Staying connected while traveling can be challenging, but getting an eSIM for New Zealand makes it much easier. Whether you are navigating the streets of Wellington or booking a last-minute tour in Queenstown, having reliable data can make all the difference.
Choosing the right provider comes down to three important factors. First, consider coverage, especially if you plan to visit remote areas. Second, check the data allowances to avoid running out at the worst moment. Finally, look for a provider that offers a simple setup process.
There is an eSIM plan for every type of traveler, whether you need a lot of data or just a way to stay in touch with home. My top recommendation is Saily because it offers strong coverage, flexible data options, and an easy setup.
FAQ
Can you get eSIM in New Zealand?
Yes, eSIMs are available in New Zealand. Numerous providers offer affordable plans with fast activation, reliable 4G/5G coverage, and flexible options to suit your travel needs.
Which eSIM is best for travel to New Zealand?
Saily is the top choice for travel to New Zealand. It offers robust nationwide coverage, flexible data plans, and affordable pricing, ensuring reliable 4G/5G connectivity for streaming and staying connected.
Can I get an eSIM for Australia and New Zealand?
Yes, you can get an eSIM for both Australia and New Zealand from providers like Airalo, Jetpac, and others. These providers offer seamless coverage, flexible data plans, and easy activation, making it hassle-free to stay connected while traveling in both countries.
What is the cheapest eSIM for New Zealand?
One of the cheapest eSIM options for New Zealand is Saily, with plans starting at $3.79/week, offering great coverage at an affordable price. Airalo is another budget-friendly option, providing low-cost data plans. Nomad also offers competitive pricing for short-term stays, keeping you connected without high costs.
Does Airalo work in New Zealand?
Yes, Airalo works in New Zealand. More precisely, it offers six different NZ offers. It also has regional and global eSIMs for New Zealand and the surrounding region.
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