eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM built into modern smartphones that can be activated without a physical SIM card. All three major NZ networks support eSIM, and it’s increasingly useful for travellers, people with dual-SIM phones, and anyone who wants to switch providers without waiting for a physical SIM in the mail.
Networks with eSIM: Spark, One NZ, 2degrees, Skinny Mobile
Compatible phones: iPhone XS and later, many Android flagships (Samsung S20+, Google Pixel 3+)
Activation: Online — no physical SIM needed
Best use cases: Travel (secondary international SIM), switching networks instantly, dual-SIM phones
What Is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital SIM embedded in your phone’s hardware. Instead of inserting a plastic SIM card, you activate an eSIM by scanning a QR code or downloading a profile online. Your phone can store multiple eSIM profiles and switch between them.
Key benefits:
- No waiting for a physical SIM in the mail
- Switch networks or plans instantly
- Use two numbers on one phone (personal + work, or NZ + international)
- No physical SIM slot needed (some newer phones are eSIM-only)
NZ Networks with eSIM Support (2026)
| Network | eSIM available | Prepay eSIM | Monthly SIM-only eSIM | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spark | Yes | Yes | Yes | Good eSIM activation process |
| One NZ | Yes | Yes | Yes | Strong eSIM offer |
| 2degrees | Yes | Yes | Yes | Full eSIM support |
| Skinny Mobile | Yes | Yes | Yes | eSIM for prepay combos |
| Warehouse Mobile | Limited | Check | Check | Less full-featured |
All major NZ networks now support eSIM for both prepay and monthly plans.
Compatible Phones for NZ eSIM
eSIM capability is built into phones at the hardware level. Compatible devices in NZ include:
Apple:
- iPhone XS, XS Max, XR and all later models
- iPhone 13, 14, 15 series are eSIM-capable (iPhone 14+ US models are eSIM-only)
- iPad Pro, iPad Air (some models)
Samsung:
- Galaxy S20, S21, S22, S23, S24 series
- Galaxy Z Fold and Z Flip series
- Galaxy Note 20 series
Google:
- Pixel 3, 3a and all later models
- Pixel 7, 8, 9 series
Other:
- Various newer Android flagships support eSIM — check your specific model
- Many budget Android phones do NOT support eSIM
How to Set Up an eSIM in NZ
For a New Plan
- Go to your chosen provider’s website (Spark, One NZ, 2degrees, or Skinny)
- Select a plan and choose eSIM during checkout
- Complete sign-up online
- You’ll receive a QR code by email
- On your phone: Settings → Cellular/Mobile → Add eSIM → Scan QR code
- Follow the prompts — activation usually takes a few minutes
Switching from Physical SIM to eSIM
Contact your current provider. Most will let you convert your existing number from a physical SIM to an eSIM. The process usually involves verifying your identity and receiving a new QR code.
eSIM for International Travel
This is one of the most popular uses of eSIM for NZ travellers. Options:
Option 1: Add an international eSIM When travelling overseas, add a local or international eSIM from a provider like Airalo, Nomad, or eSIM.me. Install before you leave. Keep your NZ physical SIM in your phone for calls on your NZ number if needed.
Popular international eSIM providers for NZ travellers:
- Airalo — Regional eSIMs covering Europe, Asia, Americas (from USD $5–$20)
- Nomad — Often good pricing for Pacific and Asian destinations
- Roamless — Pay-per-MB model
Option 2: Use your NZ provider’s international roaming All three NZ networks offer international roaming. Check the daily rates — typically $5–$15/day for roaming add-ons. For longer trips, a local eSIM is usually cheaper.
eSIM for Dual SIM
Many modern Android phones and iPhones support using a physical SIM + eSIM simultaneously. This allows:
- Personal number (eSIM) + work number (physical SIM)
- NZ number (physical SIM) + travel eSIM for data
- Two different NZ networks for coverage (e.g., Spark + 2degrees)
On an iPhone, you can designate one line as your default for calls and data, and switch between them in Settings.