How do I activate an eSIM on iOS?

On iPhone: Go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM. Scan the QR code provided by your carrier or paste the activation code. Once added, make sure to enable Data Roaming for the eSIM only. If no service appears, toggle Airplane Mode for 10 seconds and try again.

How do I activate an eSIM on Android?

On Android: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Add eSIM. Choose to scan the QR code or enter the activation code manually. Once added, set the eSIM as your Data SIM and enable Mobile Data. Some devices may require a restart for the eSIM to be fully activated.

Can I keep my physical SIM active while using an eSIM?

Yes, you can keep your physical SIM active for calls and SMS while using the eSIM for mobile data. Most devices allow you to select which SIM handles data, calls, or texts separately.

What should I do if my eSIM does not activate?

If your eSIM fails to activate, double-check the QR code or activation code. Ensure your device is connected to Wi-Fi during activation. Restart your device, and if it still doesn’t work, contact your eSIM provider for troubleshooting or request a replacement QR code.

Best eSIM for New Zealand (2025) | Auckland, Queenstown & Hobbiton Travel

Quick Answer: Planning a trip to New Zealand in 2025? Whether you’re exploring Auckland’s skyline, hiking in Queenstown, or visiting Hobbiton, an eSIM is the easiest way to stay connected. Activate online, scan a QR code, and get instant data without visiting a local SIM shop. This guide reviews the best eSIMs for New Zealand with updated plans, prices, and coverage.

Why choose an eSIM in New Zealand?

Activate before you land at Auckland (AKL) or Wellington (WLG).
Stay online while traveling across both North and South Islands.
Avoid expensive international roaming.
Keep your WhatsApp/phone number active.

Top eSIM Providers (2025)

Airalo — affordable, flexible plans (1–20 GB).
Holafly — unlimited-style plans, great for longer stays.
Nomad — Asia-Pacific bundles (covers New Zealand, Australia, Singapore, etc.).

New Zealand eSIM Plans & Prices (2025)

Provider	Plan	Price (USD)	Validity	Best for
Airalo	1–3 GB	$5–$9	7–15 days	Short city trips
Airalo	10–20 GB	$18–$32	30 days	2+ week tours
Holafly	Unlimited-style	$29–$69	5–30 days	Heavy data travelers
Nomad	APAC bundle (5–10 GB)	$13–$27	7–30 days	Multi-country trips

Coverage & Local Networks

New Zealand has three major carriers:

Spark — wide coverage, strong in cities and highways.
Vodafone NZ (One NZ) — strong data speeds in urban areas.
2degrees — competitive plans, improving coverage nationwide.

Most eSIMs connect through Spark or Vodafone, ensuring stable service in both North & South Islands. Remote areas (Fiordland, Mt. Cook) may have weaker coverage.

Setup Guide

Buy your preferred eSIM (Airalo / Holafly / Nomad).
Receive QR code instantly.
On iPhone: Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM. On Android: Settings → Network → Add eSIM.
Scan QR code and set as Data SIM.
Enable Data Roaming (for eSIM only).

Which plan is best?

Short 1-week trip: Airalo 1–3 GB.
2–3 weeks road trip: Airalo 10–20 GB or Nomad APAC bundle.
1-month or more: Holafly unlimited-style.

Tips to Save Data

Pre-download Google Maps for North & South Island drives.
Use Wi-Fi in hotels, hostels, and airports.
Stream at lower quality to save bandwidth.

FAQs

Does NZ have 5G? Yes, in major cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.

Can I hotspot? Yes — Airalo & Nomad allow tethering, Holafly may have limits.

Do I get a local number? No — travel eSIMs are data-only, but WhatsApp and iMessage work normally.

Internal Links

Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate. Prices updated for 2025.