Best eSIM Options and Plans - The Definitive New Zealand Guide

Our guide explains eSIM technology, which kinds of devices are equipped with eSIM chips, examples of how this technology can be useful and which mobile networks in New Zealand support eSIM devices.

Updated 8 April 2023

Summary:

An eSIM is an electronic SIM card embedded within a device's hardware rather than a physical card that can be removed and inserted into a device.
Because the eSIM is not a physical card, it doesn't need to be swapped or replaced when switching mobile providers; this can all be done with a few clicks on the device.
Depending on your device, you may be able to have more than one SIM and/or eSIM profile(s) active at the same time.
Only Spark, One NZ and 2Degrees support eSIM technology in New Zealand. Spark is the only one to offer plans for wearable technology (smart watches with eSIMs), but other providers plan to start offering this service shortly.
Are you travelling overseas? This guide isn't for you. We suggest reading trusted guides such as the best eSims for international travel and best eSim providers, which list options for anyone travelling in Asia, North America and Europe.
Do you want to migrate from a SIM card to an eSIM? Spark, One NZ and 2Degrees will make the switch for you in any one of their stores. The activation is free of charge.

Our guide covers the following:

Know This First: Who would find an eSIM useful?

Travellers: eSIMs are ideal for frequent travellers who need to switch between different networks and plans when visiting different countries. With an eSIM, they can activate a new plan and avoid having to purchase a physical SIM card every time they arrive in a new location.
Internet of Things (IoT) devices: eSIM technology is well-suited for (IoT) devices, such as smart home appliances, wearables, and connected cars. eSIMs can enable these devices to be always connected to a mobile network without requiring a physical SIM card.
Business users: eSIMs can be useful for businesses with a large number of employees who need to be connected to a mobile network. With eSIM technology, companies can provision multiple devices with the same network and plan, making it easier to manage their mobile communications.
Remote workers: eSIMs are ideal for remote workers who need to be connected to a mobile network but do not want to be tied to a particular network or plan. With an eSIM, they can easily switch between different networks and plans without having to purchase a physical SIM card or change their device.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is a virtual SIM card that has been pre-installed within a device's hardware. Unlike a regular SIM card, an eSIM cannot be removed from the device. Instead, it is programmed with the necessary information that is required to connect to a mobile network.
This information is stored in the device's memory and can be updated “over-the-air” (OTA), the process of remotely activating an eSIM card without the need for a physical SIM card.
With an OTA eSIM activation, the user can simply scan a QR code or enter an activation code provided by their mobile network operator into their device to download the eSIM profile. This eliminates the need for physically inserting a SIM card into a device.
The OTA process also enables users to switch mobile network operators and download multiple eSIM profiles on a single device without needing to physically change SIM cards.

What’s the difference between eSIM and eSIM profile?

An eSIM, or Embedded SIM, is a small electronic chip that is embedded directly into a device, such as a smartphone or a smartwatch, and is used to store subscriber identity and network credentials. It is an alternative to the traditional physical SIM card, which is inserted into a device's SIM card slot.
An eSIM profile, on the other hand, is the digital profile that is downloaded onto the eSIM chip in order to activate a mobile plan. The eSIM profile contains the subscriber's network credentials, such as phone number, data plan, and other subscription details, which are stored in the eSIM chip.
In other words, an eSIM is the physical hardware component that stores the digital eSIM profile, which contains the user's subscription details. The eSIM profile is what allows the user to activate a mobile plan on their eSIM-enabled device without the need for a physical SIM card.
Important: Not all devices are compatible with eSIM technology, and not all mobile networks offer eSIM plans. If you're considering an eSIM plan, you should check with your network and device manufacturer to ensure compatibility.

What devices use eSIM technology?

Not all phones offer eSim technology. However, many devices now support this technology, including (but not limited to):

Apple iPhones: All iPhones released since the iPhone XR support eSIMs.
Google Pixel phones: Google Pixel phones released since the Pixel 2 support eSIMs.
Samsung Galaxy phones: Samsung Galaxy phones released since the Galaxy S20 support eSIMs.
iPad: All iPad models released since the 3rd generation support eSIMs.
Apple Watch: All Apple Watch models released since the Series 3 support eSIMs.
Samsung Galaxy Watch: 4G and later
Huawei: P40 Pro
OPPO: X3 Pro, X5 and X5 Pro

If you have another device, we suggest Googling "(device make and model) + esim" to see if you can use an eSim.

What Should I Consider When Getting an eSIM Plan?

Just as you'd select a phone network, an eSim is not different. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Network coverage and reputation: Make sure that the network you're considering has good network coverage in the areas where you'll be using your device. Check their coverage maps as a starting point, and reviews from other users to see how satisfied they are with the network's service will give you an insight to how reliable the service is.
Data speeds: If you'll be using your device for data-intensive activities like streaming or video conferencing, make sure that the network offers fast data speeds in your area (e.g. 4G or 5G).
Plan pricing: Compare the pricing of eSIM plans from different networks to ensure you're getting a good value. Look for hidden fees or charges that could add up over time.
Plan flexibility: Make sure that the network offers plans that are flexible enough to meet your needs; for example, plans that allow you to adjust your data allowance or other features as needed.
Activation process: Check the network's activation process to make sure it's easy and straightforward. Some networks may require you to visit a store in person to activate your eSIM, while others may allow you to activate your plan remotely.
Device compatibility: Ensure your device is compatible with the network's eSIM technology. Some networks may only support eSIMs on certain devices, so it's essential to check before signing up for a plan.

eSIM Networks and Plans Available in New Zealand

Before joining any network, please check the coverage to make sure the reception is adequate for your needs:

Spark

Spark was the first mobile network in New Zealand to support eSIM devices and is currently the only one with plans for wearable devices. Spark offers three plans for wearable devices, all of which are charged monthly and offer unlimited data (but only the first 40 GB at maximum speed):

Kids Smart Plan – For Spacetalk watch; it also requires a subscription to the AllMyTribe App, which is not included in the plan
One Number Wearable Plan – For Apple Watch, you need to have a qualifying mobile plan for your iPhone. This plan shares SMS and minutes with the primary phone plan.
Endless Wearable Plan – For Samsung watch, provides unlimited SMS texts to NZ mobiles, and unlimited minutes to Spark mobiles and NZ landlines. Setting up the watch requires a phone that is connected to the Spark network.

As well as their wearable plans, Spark supports eSIMs for mobiles and tablets through their plans, serving personal, business and government customers.

Spark has put together a list of devices that are compatible with their eSIM plans, but they also have a disclaimer that they can “only guarantee eSIM works on a device purchased from Spark”.

One NZ (previously known as Vodafone)

Starting in 2023, One NZ supports eSIM devices through their various plans. If your mobile has an eSIM, you can simply sign up for a plan through their website, they’ll email you a QR code and you can activate your profile on your phone without having to visit the store. At the moment, One NZ only supports eSIMs in mobiles and tablets but they plan to introduce plans for wearable devices later this year.

2degrees

2degrees also supports eSIM devices, but not wearables at the moment. They have plans with limited and unlimited data, and with eSIMs, they can be purchased and activated remotely using a QR code.

Pros and Cons of eSIMs

Pros:

No physical SIM card: eSIMs eliminate the need for a physical SIM card, making it more convenient for users to switch networks or devices.
Multiple profiles: eSIM technology enables users to store multiple profiles on their devices, allowing them to switch between networks or plans without having to swap SIM cards.
Remote provisioning: eSIMs can be provisioned remotely, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card to be shipped to the user.
Greater security: eSIM technology is more secure than regular SIM cards, as it is more difficult to clone or steal an eSIM.

Cons:

Limited availability: eSIM technology is still relatively new and is not yet widely available.
Compatibility issues: Some devices may not support eSIM technology, which can limit the user's options.
Dependence on technology: eSIMs rely heavily on technology, which means that they are vulnerable to issues such as software bugs, network outages, and hacking.
Network lock-in: When networks lock their eSIMs to their own network, eSIM technology can make it more difficult for users to switch networks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is an electronic SIM card that is embedded within a device's hardware, rather than being a physical card that can be removed and inserted.

How are eSIMs different from regular SIM cards?

The most obvious difference between an eSIM and a regular SIM card is the physical format. A regular SIM card is a small plastic card that can be removed from a device and inserted into another device, whereas an eSIM is embedded within the device's hardware. eSIMs are also programmable, which means that they can be updated over-the-air, whereas regular SIM cards cannot be updated remotely.

How do eSIMs work?

eSIMs store the information required to connect to a mobile network in the device's memory, which can be updated over the phone.

What are the benefits of using an eSIM?

Some benefits of eSIMs include greater convenience, improved security, the ability to store multiple profiles on a single device, and remote provisioning.

Can I use an eSIM with any network?

This depends on the network and device. Some networks may lock their eSIMs to their own network, and some devices may only support certain networks.

Can I use an eSIM with multiple networks?

Yes, eSIMs can store multiple profiles, allowing users to switch between networks or plans without swapping physical SIM cards.

What devices support eSIM technology?

Many smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches now support eSIM technology, including Apple iPhones, Google Pixel phones, Samsung Galaxy phones and watches, Huawei phones, iPads, and Apple Watches.

How do I activate an eSIM?

The activation process for an eSIM varies depending on the device and network. Some networks allow users to activate an eSIM online, while others require a physical visit to a store.

Is eSIM technology secure?

Yes, eSIM technology is more secure than regular SIM cards, as it is more difficult to clone or steal an eSIM.

Can I transfer my eSIM to another device?

Yes, if the new device supports eSIM technology and is compatible with the network.

Do eSIMs have a phone number?

Yes, eSIMs are assigned a phone number, just like regular SIM cards.

Can I use eSIMs internationally?

Yes, eSIMs can be used internationally, but roaming charges will almost certainly apply.

Can eSIMs be hacked?

While eSIM technology is generally more secure than regular SIM cards, it is not immune to hacking.

Can I use an eSIM and a physical SIM card at the same time?

Some devices support dual-SIM technology, allowing users to use an eSIM and a physical SIM card simultaneously.

How do I remove an eSIM from a device?

Since eSIMs are embedded within the device's hardware, they cannot be physically removed. However, you can easily activate and deactivate eSIM profiles with a few clicks.

eSIM technology is likely to become more widespread in the future, as more devices and networks adopt this technology.

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