Looking for the best eSIM for New Zealand?
Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, staying connected with reliable and fast coverage across New Zealand is essential, no matter where your journey takes you.
This guide provides an in-depth comparison of the top eSIM providers available in New Zealand, highlighting price ranges, user ratings, network coverage, key features, and exclusive deals.
Explore our carefully curated options to find the perfect eSIM plan for your needs, and use our exclusive discount links to secure the best prices.
Looking for the best eSIM for New Zealand?
This guide compares the top eSIM providers for New Zealand, including price ranges, user ratings, network coverage, key features, and exclusive deals.
Compare plans from each provider and purchase using our exclusive discount links to secure the best prices.
Best eSIM for New Zealand Comparison Table:
eSIM Provider
Price
User Ranking
4G or 5G
Main Features
Special Offer
1. Maya
$
Trustpilot 4.6
Mostly 5G
Fast, Pricing, Website
Visit Maya >>
2. Gigsky
$
Trustpilot 3.4
4G or 5G
Top Tier Networks
Visit Gigsky >>
3. Airalo
$+
Trustpilot 2.6
4G or 5G
Popular Among Travelers
Visit Airalo >>
4. Jetpac
$
Trustpilot 4.7
4G or 5G
Pricing, User Ranking
Visit Jetpac >>
5. Saily
$$
Trustpilot 4.2
3G / 4G / 5G
Technology Features
Visit Saily >>
eSIM Provider
User Ranking
Special Offer
1. Maya
Trustpilot
4.6
Visit Maya
2. Gigsky
Trustpilot
3.4
Visit Gigsky
3. Airalo
Trustpilot
2.6
Visit Airalo
4. Jetpac
Trustpilot
4.7
Visit Jetpac
5. Saily
Trustpilot
4.2
Visit Saily
Best eSIM for New Zealand Full Review
After reviewing the top eSIM providers, Maya clearly stands out as the best overall choice. It offers the widest access to 5G networks across dozens of destinations, making it ideal for fast, reliable mobile data while traveling. Maya also provides some of the most competitive prices on the market, without compromising on quality or speed. Users consistently rate it highly for both performance and ease of use, giving it excellent reviews across multiple platforms. The purchase process is simple and quick, with a clean and well-designed website that makes it easy to choose a plan, check compatibility, and activate your eSIM within minutes. While Maya currently doesn’t offer a mobile app, the website is so intuitive and mobile-friendly that most users won’t miss it. Maya also offers a choice between prepaid and unlimited plans, as well as options for single-country or regional plans, allowing users to select the best plan to fit their trip.
Why Choose Maya? Pros
✔ Rated ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (Trustpilot 4.6)
✔ Competitive pricing – $
✔ Mostly 5G speeds
✔ 24/7 customer support
GigSky is a strong choice for travelers who value network quality and connection stability above all. It partners with top-tier local carriers to deliver high-speed 4G and 5G coverage in more than 200 countries, with standout performance in North America, Europe, and Australia. This makes it especially reliable for business travelers and those needing consistent mobile data during their trip.
In addition to purchasing plans via its website, GigSky also offers dedicated mobile apps for both iOS and Android, allowing users to easily manage their eSIMs on the go. The platform is user-friendly, with a clean interface and straightforward plan selection. One of GigSky’s standout features is its cruise-specific plans, covering popular cruise lines — a rare offering in the eSIM space.
GigSky offers competitive pricing while maintaining access to premium networks worldwide. It’s a great fit for travelers who want a balance of affordability and consistent performance, especially in regions where network reliability matters most.
Why Choose GigSky? Pros
✔ Rated ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (Trustpilot 3.4)
✔ Competitive pricing – $
✔ 4G or 5G Speeds
✔ Cruise eSIM plans
✔ 24/7 customer support
Airalo is one of the most well-known eSIM brands globally, and for good reason. It offers good value for money and a wide range of country-specific plans, which makes it especially appealing for casual travelers and digital nomads alike. The platform is easy to use, with a mobile app and website that both support quick purchases and installations.
Airalo is particularly popular because of its referral program — users can invite friends and get discounts, which has helped build a loyal user base. Prices are fair, and most travelers report positive experiences, especially in major cities. Plans generally provide access to 4G or 5G networks depending on the region.
That said, Airalo does have a few drawbacks. Some users report inconsistent service quality in rural areas or specific countries, and unlimited plans are quite limited compared to other providers. Still, for short-term or light-to-moderate data use, Airalo remains a solid pick.
Why Choose Airalo? Pros
✔ Rated ⭐️⭐️⭐️ (Trustpilot 2.6)
✔ Fair pricing: $+
✔ 4G or 5G Speeds
✔ Popular among travelers
✔ 24/7 customer support
Jetpac is an emerging name in the eSIM world and has quickly gained a positive reputation among tech-savvy travelers. With excellent Trustpilot ratings and value-driven pricing, Jetpac is a great choice if you’re looking for a balance of affordability, performance, and ease of use.
Jetpac offers flexible data plans with a focus on transparency and simplicity. Activation is straightforward and takes just a few minutes. The provider offers good global coverage, and users consistently report solid 4G/5G speeds in popular regions including Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
The Jetpac website is well-designed, intuitive, and easy to use — making plan selection and activation simple for all users. For travelers who want more control and convenience on the go, Jetpac also offers mobile apps for both Android and iOS. The app allows advanced users to top up, monitor data in real time, and manage their eSIM with added features like emergency contacts and airport lounge access.
Why Choose Jetpac? Pros
✔ Rated ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (Trustpilot 4.7)
✔ Competitive pricing – $
✔ 4G or 5G speeds
✔ Easy-to-use website
✔ 24/7 customer support
Saily, developed by the team behind NordVPN, brings a security-conscious approach to mobile data. It’s slightly more expensive than some other eSIMs on the list, but it comes with advanced privacy features and a well-designed mobile app. If privacy and tech are high on your priority list, Saily is a smart choice.
Saily supports 3G, 4G, and 5G across many countries and offers a sleek app interface that integrates features like VPN suggestions and encrypted profiles. The service feels geared towards digital natives, remote workers, and people who care deeply about how their data is used.
Despite the higher price tag, the performance is stable and support is responsive. It’s not the best for ultra-budget travelers, but it’s perfect if you’re already using tools like NordVPN or want a more secure and tech-forward experience.
Why Choose Saily? Pros
✔ Rated ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (Trustpilot 4.2)
✔ Premium pricing – $$
✔ 3G, 4G or 5G speeds
✔ Great for privacy-focused users
✔ 24/7 customer support
What to consider whan chooing an eSIM plan for New Zealand?
Trip Duration
How long are you traveling? Is there a chance you’ll extend your stay?
In many cases, it’s better to get a longer plan upfront than to renew it multiple times.
Also, choose a plan that lasts a bit longer than your trip in case your return flight is delayed or canceled
Data Usage
How much internet do you use? and for which apps?
Light use – Email, WhatsApp messages and calls, social media.
Moderate use – Google Maps or Waze, public transport apps, ride-hailing, local searches.
Heavy use – Streaming Netflix, YouTube, Disney+. Useful for long rides or traveling with kids.
If you expect heavy use, consider an unlimited plan — but check the fine print for speed caps, network restrictions, or daily limits.
Network Type
4G, LTE, or 5G?
While choosing a plan, check what network type it supports:
4G / LTE – The standard in most countries. Reliable for maps, browsing, video calls, and streaming. LTE is basically 4G.
5G – Fastest available. Good for remote work, large uploads, or high-quality streaming. Coverage may be limited in rural areas.
3G or lower – Slow and outdated. Avoid if you rely on the internet throughout the day.
Tip: Most cheap plans offer only 4G/LTE. If a plan claims 5G, check that your device supports it and that 5G is available in the areas you’ll visit.
Single-Country or Regional Plan?
If you’re visiting several countries, a regional or global plan (like Europe or North America) may be more affordable and easier to manage.
Working While Traveling in New Zealand?
If you’re on a business trip or working remotely, don’t rely on hotel or café Wi-Fi. Get a stable and fast eSIM plan.
Look for 4G/LTE or 5G.
Make sure the provider uses reliable local networks.
A good connection is essential for video calls, file uploads, or anything work-related.
Useful Travel Apps in New Zealand
Flight Booking
Hotel & Vacation Stays
Car Rentals
Dollar
Thrifty
Navigation & Transport
Ride-Hailing & Taxis
Train Travel
Attraction Tickets
eSIM Competible Devices
Always double-check on the provider’s website before buying to make sure your device supports eSIM.
Apple
- iPhone 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 16 Pro
- iPhone 16 Plus
- iPhone 16
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Plus
- iPhone 15
- iPhone 14 Pro Max
- iPhone 14 Pro
- iPhone 14 Plus
- iPhone 14
- iPhone 13 Pro Max
- iPhone 13 Pro
- iPhone 13 mini
- iPhone 13
- iPhone 12 Pro Max
- iPhone 12 Pro
- iPhone 12 mini
- iPhone 12
- iPhone 11 Pro Max
- iPhone 11 Pro
- iPhone 11
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone XR
- iPhone SE 3 (2022)
- iPhone SE 2 (2020)
- iPad Pro 11″ - 1st Gen+
- iPad Pro 12.9″ - 3rd Gen+
- iPad Pro 12.9″ - 3rd Gen+
- iPad Air - 3rd Gen+
- iPad - 7th Gen+
- iPad mini - 5th+
Samsung
- Galaxy S25 Ultra
- Galaxy S25+
- Galaxy S25
- Galaxy S24 Ultra
- Galaxy S24+
- Galaxy S24
- Galaxy S23 Ultra
- Galaxy S23+
- Galaxy S23
- Galaxy S22 Ultra
- Galaxy S22+
- Galaxy S22
- Galaxy S21 Ultra
- Galaxy S21+
- Galaxy S21
- Galaxy S20 Ultra
- Galaxy S20+
- Galaxy S20
- Galaxy Note 20 Ultra
- Galaxy Note 20
- Galaxy Z Fold5
- Galaxy Z Fold4
- Galaxy Z Fold3 5G
- Galaxy Z Fold2 5G
- Galaxy Z Fold
- Galaxy Z Flip5
- Galaxy Z Flip4
- Galaxy Z Flip3 5G
- Galaxy Z Flip
- Galaxy A54
- Galaxy A55 5G
- Galaxy A35
eSIM Video Guide
eSIM - FAQs:
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM (Embedded SIM) is a digital SIM built into your device. It lets you switch mobile providers and activate data plans without a physical SIM card. You can download and install plans online.
What’s better: eSIM or regular SIM?
eSIM is more convenient. You can activate data plans instantly without waiting for a physical card. You can also store multiple profiles and switch easily — great for travelers.
Does an eSIM include calls?
Usually not. Most providers offer data-only eSIMs.
You can use it for internet while keeping your regular SIM active for calls and texts, but that may result in extra charges.
For calls, use apps like WhatsApp, Zoom, Telegram, or Google Voice.
Does eSIM replace my regular SIM?
Not necessarily. You can use both at the same time — keep your regular number active and use the eSIM for data abroad.
How do I know if my phone supports eSIM?
Check in your settings:
iPhone: Settings > General > About > Look for “eSIM Available”
Samsung: Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Check for eSIM option
Google Pixel: Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs & eSIM
You can also find a full list of supported devices later in this guide.
Always check the eSIM provider’s site before buying.
How do I apply the discounts you offer?
All the links on our site include a built-in discount. Just click through our links to get the best available price.
How do I activate the eSIM after purchase?
After buying, you’ll get a QR code or link.
Scan the code under your phone’s cellular settings and set it as your active line.
Then, confirm you’re connected to the right network and start using it.
When should I buy the eSIM?
Buy it before your trip. Install it at home so it’s ready to go — it will only activate on your travel date or arrival.
Use your home Wi-Fi to install any apps or offline maps you’ll need to save data abroad
What to do if I run out of data?
You can always buy another plan from the same provider or check our site for deals with other providers.
Can one eSIM be used for the whole family?
It’s better if each traveler has their own eSIM. That way, you can stay in touch and help each other if someone runs out of data.
Share this guide with your travel group to get the best deals.
Who can I contact if I have eSIM issues?
All of our recommended eSIM providers offer 24/7 support and can help with setup or troubleshooting.
I'm still not sure which eSIM to choose?
Join our Facebook group to ask questions and get tips from other travelers:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/best.esim.travel/
