Buzz
Discover the correct area code and fix common calling issues
This Mytour guide will show you how to successfully dial a number in New Zealand. It’s a straightforward process—just make sure to include your country's exit code, New Zealand’s country code (Aotearoa), and the right area code before the local number. We’ll guide you through every step along the way.
Calling New Zealand from the US or Canada
- Start with 011, the international exit code for the US and Canada.
- Next, dial 64, the country code for New Zealand.
- Then, enter the area code for New Zealand (leaving out the initial 0), followed by the 7-digit local number.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Placing an International Call to New Zealand
Be mindful of the time difference. New Zealand operates on GMT+12, which means it's 12 hours ahead of the UK, 17 hours ahead of New York, and 2 hours ahead of Sydney. Aim to avoid calling during their night hours.
- From late September to early April, New Zealand shifts to GMT+13 due to Daylight Saving Time.
- If you're unsure of the current time in New Zealand, check online here.
Input your country’s international exit code. Known as the international access code, this indicates you’re making an overseas call. Use the exit code of your current location, not your home country.
- In India, the UK, and many other countries, it’s 00. Try this if you're unsure or can’t locate the exact code.
- In the US and Canada, the code is 011.
- In Australia, use 0011.
- To find other country codes, visit this website. If there are multiple options, use the one associated with your international call carrier.
Enter 64. This is New Zealand’s country code and remains the same no matter your calling location.
Dial the appropriate area or mobile code, omitting the starting zero. This directs your call to the right region or mobile network in New Zealand. If the number includes a leading zero, skip it—this is used only within New Zealand. For 8 to 10 digit numbers (excluding the zero), the area code is already included. If not, locate your contact’s city or town to find the code:
- For mobile phones, check your contact’s provider and look up the mobile code here.
- 3: Christchurch, Dunedin, Invercargill, Nelson, Timaru, Westport
- 4: Wellington
- 6: Napier, Hastings, New Plymouth, Palmerston North
- 7: Hamilton, Rotorua, Tauranga
- 9: Auckland, Whangarei
Enter the 7-digit phone number. Type in the 7-digit number of the person you're calling. If the call starts connecting before you finish dialing, something may be off. Hang up, double-check the number, and try again.
- If the number is 8 digits or longer, it may already include the area code. Avoid entering the area code twice.
Help & Troubleshooting
Using a VoIP service? You might not need the exit code. Some voice over internet (VoIP) services let you call internationally without the exit code. Try entering the number exactly as shown but leave out the exit code to see if it works.
Check that your phone plan supports international calls. Some mobile or landline plans block international calling by default. If none of your international calls go through, contact your service provider to modify your plan.
- International calls often cost more than local ones. If you plan to call abroad regularly, consider switching to a plan with better international rates.
Try alternate contact methods if a toll-free number doesn't connect. Toll-free numbers in New Zealand begin with 508 or 800 (0508 or 0800 locally). Since these aren't toll-free for international callers, they’re often blocked. Try reaching out via email or find a standard phone number that doesn’t start with a toll-free prefix.
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Cut down on international calling costs by using VoIP or internet-based calling apps, international prepaid phone cards, callback services, or discounted rate plans offered by global call providers.
