Here’s the quick answer:
When texting to New Zealand from Australia send your text message to: +64 [NZ country code] + 21, 22, 27, or 28 [mobile phone prefix] + [mobile number] Example: +64 21 1234567
You’ve probably been in this situation before – you need to reach a friend, family member, or business contact in New Zealand, but you’re sitting in Australia wondering exactly how to send that text message.
This guide will cover the ins and outs of texting from Australia to New Zealand, ensuring your message gets delivered without any hassle.
Understanding Country Codes for Texting Phone Numbers In New Zealand
Before you send text messages to New Zealand, you need to know the basic formatting rules. The country code for New Zealand is +64, which you’ll need to use when sending any SMS from Australia.
When texting a New Zealand mobile number, you’ll need to:
- Start with the plus sign (+) or use 0011 as an alternative to the plus symbol
- Add the country code (64)
- Add the mobile number without the leading zero
For example, if the New Zealand mobile number is 021 123 4567, you would enter it as +64 21 123 4567 or 0011 64 21 123 4567 in your phone.
Formatting the New Zealand Mobile Number Correctly
New Zealand mobile numbers typically begin with a ’02’ prefix followed by a digit that indicates the mobile network. Here’s a breakdown of the major networks:
- 021: Vodafone NZ
- 022: 2degrees
- 027: Spark (formerly Telecom NZ)
- 028: Spark
When sending an SMS from Australia, you need to drop that first zero.
So if you’re texting a Vodafone NZ number like 021 5678 9012, you would format it as: +64 21 5678 9012
Getting this format right is essential to ensure your message reaches the recipient’s phone. One wrong digit, and your carefully crafted message might never arrive!
Finding the Best Mobile Plan for Texting New Zealand
If you regularly text New Zealand, consider these options:
- Vodafone’s international plans often include New Zealand in their coverage area
- Optus offers plans with included international texts to 140 countries including New Zealand
- Telstra has international add-ons that can reduce your per-message cost
For frequent texters, look for plans offering:
- Unlimited 32GB or unlimited 80GB options with international texting
- Add-on packs specifically for trans-Tasman communication
- Dedicated international messaging bundles
Using Online SMS Platforms
There’s another great option and that is using an online texting platform like 160.com.au to send SMS messages overseas, including to New Zealand.
The benefits of using an online texting platform include:
- You can text any country at very affordable rates
- The ability to send messages from your computer (no need to use your phone)
- Easy tracking of your message history
- Options for scheduling messages in advance
If you’re sending multiple messages or texting for business purposes, these platforms can be a real lifesaver and might save you some money too.
Simply paste in the NZ mobile number, type your message and click “send SMS” – that’s it.
After you’ve entered in the mobile number you can automatically add this contact to your contacts list for next time so you don’t need to paste in their number again.
To send an international text message to New Zealand for free, sign up here.
Are There Free Alternatives for Texting NZ from Australia?
There are definitely ways to avoid international texting charges:
- WhatsApp allows free messaging between Australia and New Zealand
- Facebook Messenger works well for casual connections
- Viber offers free texting with good call quality too
- Signal provides end-to-end encryption for more secure communications
These apps use your internet connection rather than the traditional SMS service, saving you money while still maintaining your connection with the recipient.
Troubleshooting If You’re Struggling to Send Text Messages From Your Australian Number
If your message isn’t going through, check these common issues:
- Verify you’ve entered the correct country code (+64 or 0011 64)
- Ensure you’ve removed the leading zero from the mobile number
- Check that you have sufficient credit or international texting allowance
- Make sure you haven’t blocked international services on your account
- Confirm your recipient’s number is current and active
Sometimes, network issues between Australia and New Zealand can cause temporary delays, so if your message isn’t delivered immediately, give it a few minutes before trying again.
Time Zone Differences When Texting NZ
Before hitting send, remember that New Zealand is usually 2 hours ahead of Eastern Australia (and sometimes more depending on daylight savings).
Staying Compliant While Texting Internationally
If you’re a business sending marketing messages or commercial texts to New Zealand, you need to comply with both Australian and New Zealand regulations regarding electronic messages.
Key compliance points include:
- Getting prior consent before sending marketing SMS
- Including clear identification of your business
- Providing a clear opt-out mechanism
- Respecting time restrictions for commercial messages
What Are the Alternatives to Sending a Text Message to New Zealand?
Making an International Call to New Zealand
Sometimes texting just won’t cut it. For more complex discussions, you might prefer to call. To make an international call to New Zealand:
- Dial the international access code (0011 from Australia)
- Enter New Zealand’s country code (64)
- Dial the area code without the leading zero
- Enter the local number
Be aware that international calls are typically charged at our low-cost international rates but are still more expensive than texts.