🇦🇺➡️🇳🇿 Calling Kiwis: Your Ultimate Guide to Calling New Zealand from Australia
Calling friends, family, or business contacts in New Zealand from Australia is a common need. Whether you’re catching up with loved ones across the ditch, coordinating business ventures, or simply making travel arrangements, understanding the dialing process and available calling options is crucial. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to successfully call New Zealand from Australia, covering dialing codes, cost-effective methods, potential issues, and even troubleshooting tips.
## Understanding the Basics: Dialing Codes and Structure
Before diving into specific methods, it’s essential to understand the basic dialing structure for international calls. Calling New Zealand from Australia involves three key components:
1. **Exit Code (International Access Code):** This code tells your phone network that you’re making an international call. In Australia, the exit code is **0011**.
2. **Country Code:** Each country has a unique country code. The country code for New Zealand is **64**.
3. **Area Code:** New Zealand uses area codes to identify specific regions. These codes typically consist of one or two digits.
4. **Local Number:** This is the individual phone number of the person or business you are trying to reach.
Therefore, the complete dialing sequence will follow this pattern:
**0011 (Australia’s Exit Code) + 64 (New Zealand’s Country Code) + Area Code + Local Number**
**Example:** Let’s say you want to call a number in Auckland, New Zealand, with the local number 1234 5678. Auckland’s area code is 09. The dialing sequence would be:
**0011 64 09 1234 5678**
## Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Call
Now, let’s break down the process into a clear, step-by-step guide:
1. **Identify the Number:** Obtain the complete phone number you wish to call, including the area code. Double-check the area code, as using the wrong one will prevent you from connecting.
2. **Dial the Exit Code:** Begin by dialing Australia’s exit code: **0011**.
3. **Dial the Country Code:** Next, dial New Zealand’s country code: **64**.
4. **Dial the Area Code:** Enter the correct area code for the region you are calling. Here are some common New Zealand area codes:
* **Auckland:** 09
* **Wellington:** 04
* **Christchurch:** 03
* **Dunedin:** 03
* **Hamilton:** 07
* **Tauranga:** 07
* **Napier/Hastings:** 06
* **Palmerston North:** 06
* **Rotorua:** 07
* **Invercargill:** 03
5. **Dial the Local Number:** Finally, dial the local phone number of the person or business you are trying to reach.
6. **Listen for the Ring:** After dialing the complete number, listen for the ringing tone, indicating that the call is being connected.
**Important Considerations:**
* **Mobile Numbers:** New Zealand mobile numbers typically start with ‘2’. When calling a mobile number, include the ‘2’ in the area code section. For example, if the mobile number is 021 123 4567, you would dial 0011 64 21 123 4567.
* **Toll-Free Numbers:** New Zealand toll-free numbers usually begin with 0800 or 0508. However, be aware that many toll-free numbers are only accessible from within New Zealand. Check the specific terms of the toll-free number to see if it can be dialed internationally.
## Different Methods for Calling New Zealand
While directly dialing from your mobile phone or landline is the most straightforward method, several alternative options can offer significant cost savings. Here’s a breakdown of popular methods:
### 1. Direct Dialing (Mobile & Landline)
* **How it Works:** This involves dialing the complete international number directly from your phone’s keypad. As described in the step-by-step guide above.
* **Pros:** Simple, convenient, and requires no additional setup.
* **Cons:** Can be the most expensive option, especially for long calls. Call charges are typically billed per minute by your mobile or landline provider. Check your provider’s international calling rates before making the call.
* **Cost:** Varies significantly depending on your provider and plan. Expect to pay anywhere from $0.50 to $3.00 or more per minute for calls to New Zealand.
### 2. VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) Services
VoIP services allow you to make calls over the internet, often at much lower rates than traditional phone services. Popular VoIP providers include:
* **Skype:** A well-established platform offering voice and video calls to other Skype users for free and calls to landlines and mobile phones at competitive rates. You’ll need to purchase Skype Credit or subscribe to a calling plan.
* **Google Voice:** Integrated with Google accounts, Google Voice provides call management features and affordable international calling rates. Requires a Google account and the Google Voice app.
* **WhatsApp:** Primarily a messaging app, WhatsApp also allows you to make voice and video calls to other WhatsApp users for free, regardless of their location. Calls to landlines and mobiles are not possible.
* **Viber:** Similar to WhatsApp, Viber offers free calls and messaging to other Viber users. Viber Out allows calling landlines and mobile phones at competitive rates.
* **Zoom:** Known for video conferencing, Zoom also supports audio calls and international calling. Requires a Zoom account.
* **Local VoIP Providers:** Several Australian VoIP providers offer competitive international calling rates. Research and compare providers to find the best deal.
* **How it Works:** You’ll need to download the VoIP app or use a computer with a microphone and speakers. Create an account, add funds or subscribe to a plan, and then dial the number directly through the app.
* **Pros:** Significantly cheaper than direct dialing, especially for frequent or long calls. Often includes additional features like call recording and voicemail.
* **Cons:** Requires a stable internet connection. Call quality can be affected by internet speed and network congestion. May require initial setup and account management.
* **Cost:** Varies depending on the provider and plan. Some offer pay-as-you-go options, while others offer monthly subscriptions for unlimited calls.
### 3. Calling Cards
Calling cards, also known as phone cards, allow you to make international calls at pre-determined rates. These cards can be physical cards purchased from retailers or virtual cards purchased online.
* **How it Works:** You purchase a calling card with a specific value or number of minutes. To make a call, you typically dial an access number, enter the card’s PIN, and then dial the destination number. Some virtual cards can be used directly through a mobile app.
* **Pros:** Can be cheaper than direct dialing, especially for occasional calls. Useful for those without access to VoIP services or reliable internet.
* **Cons:** Can be inconvenient to use, requiring multiple steps to make a call. Call quality can vary. Cards may have expiration dates or hidden fees. Carefully read the terms and conditions before purchasing.
* **Cost:** Varies depending on the card’s value and the calling rates to New Zealand. Compare different cards to find the best deal.
### 4. Mobile Apps with International Calling Features
Many mobile carriers and third-party apps offer specific international calling features or add-ons. These can provide discounted rates or bundled minutes for calls to New Zealand.
* **How it Works:** Check with your mobile carrier to see if they offer international calling packs or add-ons. Alternatively, explore apps like Rebtel or Localphone, which specialize in cheap international calls.
* **Pros:** Can be more convenient than calling cards. Offers discounted rates without requiring a VoIP setup.
* **Cons:** May require a subscription or upfront payment. Call quality can vary depending on the app and network conditions. Limited to mobile phone usage.
* **Cost:** Varies depending on the carrier, app, and plan. Compare different options to find the most cost-effective solution.
## Comparing Costs: A General Overview
Here’s a general comparison of the cost of different calling methods, from most expensive to least expensive (approximate):
1. **Direct Dialing (Mobile/Landline):** Highest cost per minute.
2. **Calling Cards:** Moderate cost, but can be subject to hidden fees.
3. **Mobile Apps with International Calling:** Moderately priced, often with bundled minutes.
4. **VoIP Services:** Generally the cheapest option, especially for frequent or long calls.
**Note:** Costs can vary significantly depending on your provider, plan, and the specific VoIP service or calling card you choose. Always compare prices before making a call.
## Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful planning, you might encounter issues when calling New Zealand from Australia. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:
* **Incorrect Dialing:** Double-check that you are dialing the correct exit code (0011), country code (64), area code, and local number. A single digit error can prevent the call from connecting.
* **Network Issues:** Poor network connectivity can disrupt the call or prevent it from going through. Try moving to a location with a stronger signal or using a different network (e.g., Wi-Fi instead of mobile data).
* **Blocked International Calls:** Your mobile or landline provider may have blocked international calls by default. Contact your provider to enable international calling.
* **VoIP Issues:** If using a VoIP service, ensure that you have a stable internet connection. Check your internet speed and troubleshoot any network connectivity problems.
* **Insufficient Funds:** If using a calling card or VoIP service with a pay-as-you-go option, ensure that you have sufficient funds in your account.
* **Time Zone Differences:** Be mindful of the time zone difference between Australia and New Zealand. Calling at an inconvenient hour may result in the call not being answered.
## Time Zone Considerations
New Zealand operates on New Zealand Standard Time (NZST), which is GMT+12. During daylight saving time (late September to early April), New Zealand uses New Zealand Daylight Time (NZDT), which is GMT+13.
Australia has multiple time zones:
* **Australian Western Standard Time (AWST):** GMT+8 (Western Australia)
* **Australian Central Standard Time (ACST):** GMT+9:30 (South Australia, Northern Territory)
* **Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST):** GMT+10 (Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, Australian Capital Territory)
Therefore, the time difference between Australia and New Zealand can range from 2 hours to 5 hours, depending on the specific locations and whether daylight saving time is in effect.
**Example:** If it’s 10:00 AM AEST in Sydney (GMT+10), it could be 12:00 PM NZST (GMT+12) in Auckland. Or 1:00 PM NZDT (GMT+13) during daylight savings.
Use an online time zone converter to accurately determine the current time difference before making a call.
## Tips for Saving Money on International Calls
* **Use VoIP services:** VoIP services are generally the cheapest option for international calls.
* **Shop around for the best rates:** Compare international calling rates from different providers before making a call.
* **Use Wi-Fi:** Whenever possible, use Wi-Fi instead of mobile data to make calls through VoIP apps.
* **Call during off-peak hours:** Some providers offer discounted rates during off-peak hours.
* **Consider a calling plan:** If you make frequent calls to New Zealand, consider subscribing to a calling plan that includes international minutes.
* **Keep calls short and to the point:** Be mindful of the call duration to minimize costs.
* **Use messaging apps for quick conversations:** For simple messages, use messaging apps like WhatsApp or Viber instead of making a call.
## Conclusion
Calling New Zealand from Australia is a straightforward process once you understand the dialing codes and available calling options. By following the steps outlined in this guide and considering the cost-saving tips, you can stay connected with friends, family, and business contacts across the Tasman Sea without breaking the bank. Remember to always double-check the number, be mindful of time zone differences, and choose the calling method that best suits your needs and budget. Happy calling!