Keeping in Touch in New Zealand

You shouldn’t have any problems keeping in touch in New Zealand – it’s an English-speaking country with reliable media, both local and international mobile phone providers, and an efficient postal service. Fast internet can be more expensive than in some parts of Europe and the US, though, particularly in rural areas with limited infrastructure.

Internet in New Zealand

There are a number of options when it comes to using the internet in New Zealand. These include having an ADSL or fibre line installed, or using prepaid 4G or 5G broadband. Free WiFi is available in most airports, cafés, and restaurants. Some metropolitan areas in New Zealand, such as the city centre in Wellington, also offer this convenient service. 

Phone and fibre in New Zealand are mostly owned by Chorus Limited, which provides wholesale services to ISPs. There are over 80 ISPs, but the two biggest players are Spark and One NZ.

Useful links

• One NZ
• Spark

Mobile phones in New Zealand

Mobile phone contracts and services in New Zealand are available from numerous providers, including the above-mentioned One NZ, Spark, and 2degrees – it’s worth shopping around for the best deal.

SIM cards are widely available in airports and large supermarkets. Expats can apply for phone contracts as long as they legally reside in New Zealand. Applicants need to provide two forms of identification (such as a passport and driver’s licence) as well as proof of address to sign up for a mobile phone contract in New Zealand. There are also a number of affordable prepaid options.

Postal services in New Zealand

The New Zealand postal service is known for being reliable and user-friendly. Overseas post is charged by weight. As New Zealand is quite far from the US and Europe, shipping heavy items can be expensive.