How to Activate an eSIM for New Zealand: Step-by-Step

eSIM from 1,00 USD · 100 MB. Networks: Vodafone (5G).

How to activate an eSIM: step by step

Do this on stable Wi-Fi at home or your hotel — not at the airport where connections are slower and more congested.

iPhone (iOS 16+)

1. Settings → Mobile Data (or Cellular) → Add Data Plan.
2. Scan the QR code from your confirmation email, or paste the activation code manually.
3. Name the plan (e.g. "Travel eSIM") to distinguish it from your main SIM.
4. Set this line as your "Mobile Data" default.
5. Enable "Data Roaming" on that line: Settings → Mobile Data → your plan → Data Roaming.

Android (Pixel, Samsung, etc.)

1. Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → Add eSIM (or "Download SIM").
2. Scan the QR code or enter the activation code.
3. Enable the new line and select it for "Mobile Data".
4. Settings → Network → your SIM → Roaming → enable Data Roaming.

Common mistakes

• "eSIM won't activate": check your phone is eSIM-compatible and carrier-unlocked.
• "I have eSIM but no internet": make sure that line is selected for data and Data Roaming is on.
• "My old SIM is still charging roaming": disable Mobile Data on your main SIM, or set it to calls/SMS only.