Getting Connected in New Zealand: Phone, Internet & Utilities Setup Guide (2026)

Setting up your essential services in New Zealand is one of the first practical tasks you'll face as a new arrival. Getting a mobile phone, internet connection, and utilities organized quickly helps you settle in, stay connected with family, and manage daily life efficiently.

This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about getting connected in New Zealand in 2026—from choosing mobile phone plans and internet providers to setting up power, gas, and water. We'll cover costs, providers, setup processes, and practical tips to make your first weeks in New Zealand smoother.

Mobile Phone Plans in New Zealand

Getting a New Zealand mobile number is typically your first priority. You'll need a local number for job applications, opening a bank account, registering with government services, and everyday communication.

Major Mobile Providers

New Zealand has three main mobile networks with various brands operating on them:

Spark: New Zealand's largest telecommunications company, offering extensive 4G and 5G coverage nationwide. Spark operates its own network and generally provides the widest rural coverage. Plans range from prepaid to unlimited data postpaid options. Spark also owns Skinny Mobile, a budget brand offering cheaper prepaid plans.

One NZ (formerly Vodafone NZ): The second-largest provider with strong urban coverage and competitive pricing. One NZ offers both prepaid and postpaid plans with various data allowances. The network has good 5G coverage in major cities and reliable 4G elsewhere.

2degrees: The third major network, known for competitive pricing and no-frills plans. 2degrees offers good value, particularly for data-heavy users, and has expanded its coverage significantly in recent years. While historically weaker in rural areas, 2degrees has improved substantially and now covers most populated areas well.

Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs): Several smaller providers operate on the major networks, often offering cheaper plans. These include Skinny Mobile (owned by Spark, operating on Spark's network), Warehouse Mobile (on One NZ's network), and Kogan Mobile (using One NZ's network). MVNOs typically offer lower prices but may have less comprehensive customer support.

Prepaid vs Postpaid Plans

Choosing between prepaid and postpaid depends on your situation and how long you plan to stay in New Zealand:

Prepaid plans: You pay in advance for a set amount of data, minutes, and texts. These are ideal when you first arrive because they don't require credit checks or proof of address. Most migrants start with prepaid. You can buy SIM cards at airports, supermarkets, petrol stations, or provider stores. Prices typically range from $10-$60 per month depending on data allowances.

Postpaid plans: You receive a monthly bill after using the service. These plans often include better phone deals (discounted or financed smartphones) and may offer more data for your money. However, postpaid requires proof of address, often a New Zealand bank account, and sometimes a credit check. Once you're settled with a permanent address and local banking, postpaid plans may offer better value.

Typical Costs and Data Allowances

Mobile phone plan costs in New Zealand vary significantly based on data needs:

Budget prepaid (under $20/month): Basic plans offering 1-3GB of data, unlimited texts, and limited or pay-per-minute calls. Suitable for light users who mainly message and use WiFi for internet.

Mid-range ($20-$40/month): Most common choice for migrants, offering 5-15GB of data with unlimited calls and texts within New Zealand. Sufficient for moderate browsing, maps, social media, and daily communication.

High-data ($40-$80/month): Plans with 20GB to unlimited data, unlimited calls and texts, and often including international minutes or data roaming. Good for heavy users or those working remotely who need reliable mobile data.

Data rollover, carryover, and international calling vary by provider and plan. Many plans include data rollover for unused data, while international calls to specific countries may be included or available as add-ons.

Getting Your First NZ Mobile Number

Setting up your mobile phone as a new arrival is straightforward:

At the airport: Purchase a prepaid SIM card from provider kiosks in the arrivals area. This gives you immediate connectivity for navigation, booking accommodation, and contacting people. Tourist-focused plans often include data and calls, making them perfect for your first few days.

In person at retail stores: Visit provider stores in shopping areas. Staff can help you choose appropriate plans and set up your phone. Bring your passport for identification.

Online: Once you have a New Zealand address, you can order SIM cards online from most providers. They're typically delivered free within a few days.

Supermarkets and convenience stores: Many stores sell prepaid SIM starter packs for major providers. These are convenient and available outside business hours.

Most SIMs work immediately after insertion and simple activation via text or app. New Zealand uses the standard SIM, Micro-SIM, and Nano-SIM formats. Ensure you know which size your phone requires, though most providers supply multi-size SIM cards that you can punch out to fit.

Porting Your Number

If you change providers after arrival, you can keep your New Zealand mobile number by requesting a port. The process takes 1-2 business days and is handled between providers. You'll need your existing account details and must request the port from your new provider, who coordinates with your old one.

Internet and Broadband in New Zealand

Setting up home internet is essential for settling in New Zealand, whether for job searching, staying in touch with family overseas, entertainment, or working from home.

Types of Internet Connections

New Zealand offers several internet connection types with varying speeds and availability:

Fibre broadband: The fastest option, with speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to 8 Gbps (8000 Mbps) depending on your plan. Fibre is available in most urban areas and many towns through the government's Ultra-Fast Broadband initiative. If your property has fibre access, it's generally the best choice for reliability and speed. Most new migrants in cities use fibre.

ADSL/VDSL: Older technology delivered through copper phone lines. ADSL offers speeds up to 24 Mbps, while VDSL can reach up to 70 Mbps. These are being phased out as fibre expands but remain available in areas without fibre coverage. Speed and reliability depend on your distance from the local telephone exchange.

Fixed Wireless: Uses radio signals instead of physical cables. Available in some rural areas where fibre and ADSL aren't options. Speeds vary widely (typically 5-50 Mbps) depending on terrain and distance from towers.

Mobile broadband and hotspots: Uses mobile networks (4G or 5G) to provide internet access. Useful as a backup or for temporary accommodation. However, data caps make it expensive for primary home internet unless you have an unlimited data plan.

Major Internet Providers

Dozens of internet providers operate in New Zealand, but these are the most common:

Spark: The largest provider with extensive fibre and broadband networks. Offers bundles with mobile plans and home phone services. Known for reliable service but not always the cheapest.

One NZ: Strong competitor with competitive fibre and broadband plans. Often offers promotional deals for new customers, including discounted modem costs.

2degrees: Growing internet provider with competitive pricing. Known for transparent pricing without lengthy contracts.

Chorus: Owns and maintains much of New Zealand's fibre network but doesn't sell directly to consumers. Other providers use Chorus infrastructure.

Smaller providers: Companies like Skinny Broadband, NOW Broadband, Slingshot, MyRepublic, and Orcon offer competitive deals, often with lower prices than major providers. These typically use the same physical infrastructure but may differ in customer service and support.

Internet Costs and Plans

Broadband pricing depends on speed tier, data allowances, and contract terms:

Basic fibre (30-100 Mbps): Costs $60-$85 per month with unlimited data. Suitable for singles, couples, or small households with standard internet needs like browsing, streaming, and video calls.

Standard fibre (200-300 Mbps): Typically $75-$95 per month. The most popular option for families, offering enough speed for multiple devices streaming simultaneously and working from home.

High-speed fibre (900-1000 Mbps): Usually $95-$120 per month. Ideal for large households, serious gamers, people running home servers, or those who frequently upload/download large files.

Hyperfibre (2-8 Gbps): Premium plans costing $150+ per month. Only necessary for businesses or users with extreme bandwidth requirements.

Most providers offer unlimited data on fibre plans. ADSL/VDSL plans may have data caps, though unlimited options exist at higher prices. Setup fees vary—some providers waive these as promotional offers, while others charge $50-$100 for installation or modem costs.

Setting Up Internet

Getting internet connected in your New Zealand home involves several steps:

Check availability: Before signing a lease or choosing a property, verify what internet types are available at that address. Most provider websites have address checkers that show fibre availability and speeds. When searching for rental accommodation, internet availability is worth confirming.

Choose a provider and plan: Compare providers based on speed needs, price, contract terms, and customer reviews. Look for special deals—new customers often receive discounted rates for the first 6-12 months.

Sign up: You can typically sign up online or by phone. You'll need proof of address (tenancy agreement), identification, and a New Zealand bank account for direct debit payments.

Installation: For fibre connections where the property isn't already connected, a technician may need to install the fibre connection inside your home. This is usually free but requires scheduling. The provider sends you a modem that you connect to the fibre or phone line outlet. Many providers include modems free with the plan or charge $5-$10 monthly rental.

Activation: Once physical setup is complete, activation typically takes 1-3 business days for fibre, or up to 5 business days for ADSL/VDSL. You'll receive connection details and WiFi passwords to configure your network.

Most rental properties in cities have existing fibre connections, making setup quick. In newer developments or properties without previous internet service, initial fibre installation can take 2-4 weeks to schedule and complete.

Contract Terms and Switching Providers

Internet contracts in New Zealand typically come in two forms:

No fixed term (month-to-month): You can cancel anytime with minimal notice (usually 30 days). Slightly higher monthly costs but maximum flexibility.

Fixed-term contracts (12-24 months): Lower monthly rates in exchange for committing to a set period. Early cancellation may incur exit fees, though these are being phased out by many providers.

As a new migrant, month-to-month contracts offer flexibility if you're unsure about long-term accommodation. Once settled, fixed-term contracts can provide better value.

Power (Electricity) in New Zealand

Setting up electricity is essential in any New Zealand property. Unlike some countries, you actively choose your power provider—it doesn't automatically come with the property.

How New Zealand's Power System Works

New Zealand's electricity system separates infrastructure (the physical poles, wires, and delivery network) from retail (the companies you buy power from). Your property is connected to lines owned by a local network company, but you choose which retailer supplies and bills you for electricity.

This means you can switch power companies without any physical changes to your property. The electricity itself is identical—the difference is in pricing, billing, customer service, and any additional features like fixed-rate contracts or bundled services.

Major Power Retailers

New Zealand has numerous power retailers, each with different pricing structures and offerings:

Contact Energy: One of the largest retailers with competitive pricing and various plan options. Offers fixed-rate and flexible plans.

Mercury Energy: Major retailer with fixed-rate options and loyalty discounts. Strong presence in the North Island.

Genesis Energy: Large provider offering various plans including fixed and variable rates. Often has promotional offers for new customers.

Meridian Energy: New Zealand's largest renewable energy retailer, using 100% renewable sources. Competitive pricing with a focus on sustainability.

Electric Kiwi: Innovative retailer known for its "Hour of Power" promotion (one free hour of electricity daily that you choose). Popular with cost-conscious consumers.

Flick Electric: Wholesale electricity retailer that passes wholesale market prices directly to consumers. Can offer significant savings but requires more attention to usage during peak price periods.

Smaller retailers: Regional and niche providers like Trustpower, Nova Energy, and Pulse Energy serve specific areas or customer types.

Typical Power Costs

Electricity costs vary based on region, property size, heating type, and usage patterns. As a rough guide for 2026:

Small apartment or house (1-2 people): $100-$180 per month. Lower in summer, higher in winter due to heating.

Medium family home (3-4 people): $180-$300 per month. Varies significantly based on heating systems and hot water setup.

Large home (4+ people or with high usage): $300-$500+ per month, particularly in winter with electric heating.

Power bills include several components: a daily fixed charge (covering your connection to the network, typically $1-$2 per day), unit rates (charged per kilowatt-hour of electricity used, varying by time of day and plan), and sometimes additional levies or discounts. Understanding the realistic cost of living in New Zealand includes budgeting appropriately for power throughout the year.

Winter months see significantly higher bills due to heating, shorter days, and clothes dryer usage. Many households' winter power bills are 40-60% higher than summer months.

Setting Up Power

Connecting power to your new home is usually straightforward:

Before moving in: Arrange power connection at least 2-3 business days before your move-in date. Most retailers offer online signup with instant approval.

Information needed: You'll need your move-in address, identification, a New Zealand bank account, and the ICP number (Installation Control Point—a unique identifier for your property's power connection). The ICP number is usually in the property listing or available from your landlord.

Switching on: If the property already has an active connection and you're just switching providers, power should continue without interruption. If power has been disconnected, the new retailer arranges reconnection, which typically happens within 1-2 business days.

Deposits: Some retailers require deposits for new customers, typically one month's estimated usage ($100-$200). This is more common if you're on a temporary visa or can't provide strong credit references.

Comparing Power Plans

Choosing a power retailer involves comparing several factors:

Pricing structure: Fixed-rate plans offer price certainty for 12-24 months, protecting you from market fluctuations. Variable-rate plans change with wholesale costs and may offer savings when wholesale prices drop but increase when they rise.

Prompt payment discounts: Many retailers offer discounts (typically 15-25%) for paying on time and by direct debit. These discounts significantly affect your total cost.

Low-user vs standard-user rates: If your household uses less than 8,000 kWh annually (roughly 21 kWh per day), you qualify for lower daily charges but slightly higher unit rates. Most small households and apartments qualify as low users.

Bundling: Some retailers offer discounts for bundling internet, power, and mobile services. However, always compare the total cost against separate providers—bundled isn't always cheapest.

Government-funded comparison websites like Powerswitch and Consumer NZ's Powerswitch service let you compare retailers based on your estimated usage and address.

Gas in New Zealand

Natural gas is available in many urban areas but isn't as universal as electricity. Whether you need gas depends on your property's appliances and location.

Gas Availability

Reticulated natural gas (piped to your property) is primarily available in larger cities and towns, particularly in the North Island. Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, and New Plymouth have extensive gas networks. South Island gas availability is limited, with Christchurch having some coverage but many areas relying solely on electricity or bottled LPG.

Many modern New Zealand homes are all-electric, particularly newer builds and apartments. Gas is typically used for cooking, hot water heating, and space heating in properties that have gas connections.

Natural Gas Retailers

If your property has natural gas, you choose a gas retailer similarly to electricity:

Contact Energy, Genesis Energy, and Nova Energy: Major suppliers offering both electricity and natural gas, often with bundle discounts.

Vector: Owns much of Auckland's gas network and also retails gas to consumers.

Gas costs typically range from $40-$100 per month for households using gas for cooking and hot water. Homes using gas for space heating will see higher bills, particularly in winter.

LPG (Bottled Gas)

In areas without reticulated gas, many properties use LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) in bottles. This is common for cooking, hot water, and heating in rural areas or properties without natural gas connections.

LPG is delivered by companies like Genesis, Contact Energy, Rockgas, and On Gas. You typically rent or buy gas bottles, which are refilled or exchanged when empty. Costs depend on usage but generally range from $80-$150 per refill for standard household bottles.

Water in New Zealand

Water supply and billing vary significantly across New Zealand depending on where you live.

Council Water Supply

Most urban properties receive water from the local council. In many areas, water is included in council rates (property taxes paid by the landlord), meaning tenants don't pay separate water bills.

However, some councils charge water rates separately, particularly in areas with water meters. Auckland, for instance, charges for water usage above a certain threshold. Wellington includes water in rates for residential properties. Christchurch meters water and charges for usage.

When renting, check whether water costs are included in rent or if tenants pay separately. This should be specified in your tenancy agreement.

Private Water Supply

Rural properties and some smaller towns may use private water supplies like rainwater tanks, bore water, or rural water schemes. These systems require different maintenance and may have usage limitations, particularly during droughts.

If your property uses tank water, understand the tank capacity, maintenance requirements, and what happens during dry periods. Some properties have backup systems connecting to council supply if tanks run low.

Water Costs

Where water is charged separately, costs typically range from $30-$80 per month for average household usage. This usually includes wastewater (sewerage) charges as well as fresh water supply.

Setting Up Utilities: Practical Timeline

When arriving in New Zealand, tackle utilities setup in this order for the smoothest experience:

Day 1 (Arrival): Purchase a prepaid mobile SIM at the airport for immediate connectivity. This lets you make calls, use maps, and access the internet while arranging everything else.

Days 1-3: Once you have temporary accommodation, open a bank account if you haven't already. A New Zealand bank account is required for most utility providers' direct debit payments.

Week 1 (Before moving into permanent accommodation): Arrange internet connection at least 2-3 days before your move-in date. Sign up for power (and gas if applicable) to ensure services are active when you arrive at your new home.

First month: Once settled with a permanent address, consider switching from prepaid to postpaid mobile if it offers better value. Review internet speeds and coverage to ensure they meet your needs. Compare power retailers if you weren't able to thoroughly research before moving in.

Having connectivity sorted early in your arrival makes everything else easier—from job searching and apartment hunting to staying in touch with family. The first six months in New Zealand involve numerous administrative tasks, and having reliable communication and internet access makes these far more manageable.

Money-Saving Tips for Utilities

New arrivals can reduce utility costs with these strategies:

Compare before committing: Use comparison websites for power, internet, and mobile plans. Don't just accept your landlord's suggestion—you can choose any provider.

Look for new customer deals: Many providers offer promotional rates, waived setup fees, or discounted initial periods for new customers. Time your signup to maximize these offers.

Bundle cautiously: Bundling internet, mobile, and power can offer discounts but isn't always the cheapest option. Compare the bundled price against individual providers.

Consider prepaid mobile initially: Prepaid plans avoid credit checks and proof of address requirements when you first arrive, and you can switch to postpaid later if it offers better value.

Set up direct debit: Most utilities offer discounts (10-25%) for paying by direct debit. These savings add up significantly over a year.

Review usage and plans: After a few months, review your actual mobile data usage and internet speeds. You might be paying for more than you need, or conversely, constantly exceeding limits and paying excess charges.

Take advantage of free power hours: Retailers like Electric Kiwi offer free power periods. Running dishwashers, washing machines, and charging devices during these times can reduce bills.

Energy-efficient habits: New Zealand homes aren't always well-insulated compared to Europe or North America. Being mindful of heating/cooling usage, closing curtains at night, and using cold water for washing reduces power bills significantly.

Important Differences from Other Countries

Migrants often find some aspects of New Zealand's utility setup different from their home countries:

Active provider choice: You must actively select and set up utilities. They don't automatically transfer with properties. Landlords provide connection details but not the service itself.

No lengthy contracts required: Unlike some countries where 12-24 month contracts are standard, most New Zealand utilities offer flexible month-to-month options, though fixed-term contracts may have better rates.

Competitive market: The deregulated utilities market means you have genuine choice and can switch providers easily. Take advantage of this by comparing options.

Deposits for temporary visa holders: Some providers require deposits from people on temporary visas or without strong credit histories. This is refundable when you close your account.

Pay-after usage: Most utilities bill after usage (monthly or bimonthly), unlike prepaid systems common in some countries. Budget accordingly for bills that arrive after the consumption period.

Utilities and Your Tax

While utilities aren't directly related to income tax, there are a few points worth noting:

When you set up your IRD number and tax, ensure your address is correct—this is where any tax correspondence arrives. Similarly, utility providers use your address for billing, so keep all providers updated if you move.

If you're self-employed or work from home, you may be able to claim a portion of utilities as business expenses. Keep records of bills if this applies to you, and consult an accountant about eligibility and claiming procedures.

Common Utility Setup Mistakes to Avoid

New migrants frequently encounter these issues when setting up utilities:

Waiting until move-in day: Don't wait until you're moving in to arrange utilities. Book services at least 3-5 days in advance to ensure they're active when you arrive.

Not checking existing connections: Verify what's already connected at your property before choosing providers. Some properties have fibre but the new tenant doesn't realize and signs up for slower ADSL.

Ignoring prompt payment discounts: Many people focus on advertised rates but forget to account for prompt payment discounts. These can be 20%+ and dramatically affect your actual costs.

Overestimating internet speed needs: The fastest plan isn't always necessary. A 100 Mbps fibre connection handles most household needs perfectly well at lower cost than 900 Mbps plans.

Not canceling properly when moving: Always officially close accounts when moving. Simply stopping payments can leave you with debt and affect your credit rating.

Accepting default providers: Don't just use whoever the landlord suggests or whoever is already connected. You have choice—use it to find the best value.

Resources and Support

Several resources help with utilities setup and comparison:

Powerswitch (powerswitch.org.nz): Free government-backed service comparing power and gas retailers.

Broadband Compare (broadbandcompare.co.nz): Comparison service for internet providers, plans, and coverage.

Consumer NZ: Independent consumer organization offering product and service reviews, including utilities.

Citizens Advice Bureau: Free service helping with consumer rights, including utility disputes and setup questions.

Tenancy Services: Government service providing information about tenant rights regarding utilities in rental properties.

Final Thoughts

Getting connected with phone, internet, and utilities is an essential part of settling into New Zealand life. While it might seem overwhelming at first—particularly with so many provider choices—the process is generally straightforward once you understand the basics.

The key takeaways for new migrants are: start with a prepaid mobile for immediate connectivity, arrange internet and power before moving into permanent accommodation, use comparison tools to find the best value rather than accepting default options, and take advantage of new customer deals and promotions.

New Zealand's competitive utilities market works in your favor as a consumer. Unlike some countries where choices are limited or monopolies exist, you have genuine options and can switch providers relatively easily. Taking time to research and compare can save you hundreds of dollars per year while ensuring you get the service quality you need.

Most migrants find that after the initial setup, utilities become background services that simply work. The flexibility to change providers if you're unsatisfied means you're never locked into poor service or high prices for long periods.

Getting these essential services organized quickly helps you focus on the more important and exciting aspects of your new life in New Zealand—building your career, making friends, exploring the country, and truly settling into your new home in Aotearoa.