Tourism New Zealand's advice for visitors is simple: to use phone and data services on the local network with an overseas phone, buy a SIM card from one of the local phone companies, and a prepaid plan is the recommended option.
Before you buy
- If you plan to roam on your home SIM instead, check the price with your own provider before you go — roaming charges are set by them, not by New Zealand
- Prepaid packs vary by data allowance; compare the operators' own sites
Coverage
Main cities and towns have strong mobile coverage and 5G is available. Outside them, coverage varies a lot. In some rural and wilderness areas there is no mobile coverage at all. Do not rely on your phone to call for help in the backcountry.
Free Wi-Fi
Main airports and some regional airports offer free Wi-Fi in their terminals, and public libraries throughout the country offer free Wi-Fi as well.
Emergency calls
Calls to 111 are free and work on a mobile even if it is out of credit. Dialling 112 from a mobile in New Zealand connects you to 111 as well.
Source: Immigration New Zealand — Using mobile phones, internet, TV and radio
Source: Tourism New Zealand — Internet and power points in New Zealand
Source: New Zealand Police — Call 111
Common questions
Does 112 work in New Zealand?
Yes. NZ Police says a 112 call made from a mobile in New Zealand is put through to 111.
Will my phone work on hiking tracks?
Often not. Coverage is not available in some rural and wilderness areas. In the backcountry, carry a personal locator beacon instead of relying on a phone.
More on the NZeTA
Emergency numbers and safety
Call 111 for police, fire or ambulance, 105 for police non-emergencies. What to do in an earthquake or tsunami, and before a hike.
Driving in New Zealand
Drive on the left and carry your licence, plus an approved translation or IDP if it is not in English. Drink-drive limits and the November 2026 change.
Power plugs and voltage
New Zealand uses Type I plugs with two angled flat pins and the supply is 230 V, 50 Hz. Check your charger is rated up to 240 V before you plug it in.
Public holidays 2026–2027
Official New Zealand public holiday dates for 2026 and 2027, regional anniversary days, and the three and a half days when almost all shops must close.
Healthcare and ACC
ACC can cover visitors' accident injuries, but not illness, and most visitors pay for care. Reciprocal agreements: UK and Australia only.
Smoking, vaping and alcohol
18 to buy alcohol, tobacco or vapes, and a passport is the ID visitors can use. No smoking or vaping indoors in bars, and local liquor bans.