How to Call Australia from New Zealand: A Comprehensive Guide

Making international calls can sometimes feel like navigating a complex maze. The different country codes, area codes, and time zones can be confusing, especially if you’re not used to it. If you’re in New Zealand and need to reach someone in Australia, this guide will break down the process step-by-step, ensuring you connect without any headaches. Whether you’re calling a friend, family member, or a business contact, understanding the correct procedure is crucial. Let’s dive into the details.

Understanding the Basics: Country Codes and Area Codes

Before you even dial a number, it’s essential to understand the core components of an international phone number. These include the exit code, the country code, and the area code (if applicable). Here’s a breakdown:

• Exit Code (International Access Code): This is the code you dial to indicate you’re making an international call. For New Zealand, the exit code is 00. This tells the local telephone network that you are dialing a number outside of New Zealand.
• Country Code: Each country has its own unique country code. Australia’s country code is +61. Alternatively, some providers will also let you use 0061, but it is important to confirm what your provider needs to ensure the call is connected correctly. The ‘+’ is a replacement for your international access code. When using a mobile phone, you can use the + symbol directly, meaning you can skip dialing the exit code completely. If you’re using a landline, you will always need to dial 00, followed by 61 and then the Australian number.
• Area Code: Australia, like many countries, uses area codes to further specify the location of a phone number. Area codes vary depending on the Australian state or territory you are calling. These are followed by the specific local phone number.
• Local Number: This is the unique phone number of the person or business you’re trying to reach within the specified area code.

Step-by-Step Guide to Calling Australia from New Zealand

Now, let’s put all of this together into a simple, step-by-step guide:

1. Start with the Exit Code (00): If you’re calling from a landline, begin by dialing 00. If you’re using a mobile phone you can use the plus sign ( + ) instead.
2. Add the Australian Country Code (+61): Next, dial Australia’s country code which is 61 (or use +61 if on a mobile phone.)
3. Include the Australian Area Code: Now, you’ll need the specific area code for the location you’re calling in Australia. Here’s a list of common Australian area codes:
   • New South Wales (NSW):
     • Sydney: 02
     • Central Coast: 02
     • Newcastle: 02
     • Wollongong: 02
     • Regional NSW: 02
   • Victoria (VIC):
     • Melbourne: 03
     • Regional VIC: 03
   • Queensland (QLD):
     • Brisbane: 07
     • Gold Coast: 07
     • Sunshine Coast: 07
     • Regional QLD: 07
   • South Australia (SA):
     • Adelaide: 08
     • Regional SA: 08
   • Western Australia (WA):
     • Perth: 08
     • Regional WA: 08
   • Tasmania (TAS): 03
   • Australian Capital Territory (ACT): 02
   • Northern Territory (NT): 08

   Note: It is important to double check what area code is used, as some areas may use different area codes depending on the location. If you are not sure of the area code, the best way to confirm it would be to search online.

4. Enter the Local Number: Finally, dial the specific local phone number of the person or business you want to call. This number usually consists of 7 or 8 digits.

Example of How to dial an Australian number

Let’s consider an example: You want to call a friend in Sydney, New South Wales. Their phone number is 1234 5678. You would dial the following:

• From a landline in New Zealand: 00 61 2 12345678
• From a mobile phone in New Zealand: +61 2 12345678

Here, 00 is the exit code, 61 is the Australian country code, 2 is the area code for Sydney, and 12345678 is the local number of your friend.

Another example, if you want to call a business in Melbourne Victoria, which has a local number of 9876 5432, then you would need to dial:

• From a landline in New Zealand: 00 61 3 98765432
• From a mobile phone in New Zealand: +61 3 98765432

Here 00 or + (depending on your phone) is the exit code, 61 is the Australian country code, 3 is the area code for Melbourne and 98765432 is the local number of the business

Tips for Successful International Calls

To make your international calls as smooth and successful as possible, consider these tips:

• Check Time Zone Differences: Australia has multiple time zones, and they can be different from New Zealand. Check the time in the region you’re calling to avoid calling at inconvenient hours. Australia has five main time zones, from West to East they are Western Standard Time (AWST), Central Standard Time (ACST), Eastern Standard Time (AEST), Central Daylight Time (ACDT) and Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT). It’s important to know that, except for Western Australia, Daylight Savings Time is in effect from October to early April in other States, so keep this in mind when making a call.
• Use a Reliable Phone Service: Ensure that your phone service provider allows for international calls and has a clear line. Some internet-based calling apps (such as Skype, WhatsApp and Viber) can provide cheaper alternatives to standard international phone services. However, ensure you are using the latest version of the app to avoid any issues with call quality.
• Have the Full Number Ready: Double-check that you have the correct country code, area code, and local number before you dial. This will prevent frustrating connection errors.
• Consider Call Costs: International calls can be expensive. Check with your phone service provider about their international call rates and available calling plans.
• Check for specific dialing instructions: Depending on your service provider, they may require certain dialing instructions that differ from the basic steps outlined above. It is always best to confirm with your provider if you are unsure.
• Avoid Poor Reception Areas: If you are making the call via mobile, ensure that you have adequate coverage in your area. If the signal is weak you may have issues connecting or staying connected for the call.
• Be aware of potential distractions: When making a call, make sure that you are in a quiet area so you can concentrate on the conversation. If you are in a noisy area it may be difficult to hear the person on the other end of the phone line.

Alternative Calling Options

While making direct calls is common, there are alternative ways to contact someone in Australia, especially if you’re trying to reduce costs:

• Internet-Based Calling Apps: Apps like Skype, WhatsApp, Viber, and FaceTime allow you to make voice or video calls over the internet. These are often cheaper or even free if both parties have the app and are connected to Wi-Fi. This can often be an easier and less expensive method than direct dialing on a standard mobile or landline connection.
• Social Media Platforms: Many social media apps now include voice and video calling options. This is a simple alternative, particularly if you are already using these apps to communicate with your contacts. If the person you want to talk to is not available for a call, these platforms allow you to leave messages which they can access when it suits them.
• Calling Cards: Some calling cards or pre-paid phone services can offer lower international call rates. These can be found in local shops and supermarkets and are generally easier to use than trying to set up an online calling service.
• Use a calling plan: If you regularly make international calls, it may be worthwhile looking at the calling plans offered by your service provider, as these will often be cheaper than using pay-as-you-go rates.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, even when you follow all the steps correctly, you might encounter issues. Here are some common problems and how to fix them:

• Incorrect Number: The most common issue is an incorrect phone number. Double-check each digit to ensure you’ve entered it correctly, including the exit code, country code, area code, and local number. It is a good idea to get the person you are calling to send you their number in a text so that you can copy and paste it into your contacts list, reducing the risk of entering incorrect numbers.
• Connection Problems: If you’re using a mobile phone, ensure you have a strong network connection. If you’re using a landline, verify that your line is working correctly. If you have an internet-based calling service, check that your WiFi signal is strong. Consider disconnecting from your WiFi and reconnecting if it seems as though your connection is unstable.
• Call Blocked: Occasionally, some numbers might be blocked due to security reasons or other settings. If you believe the number you are dialing is correct, and there is no issue with your phone line, you should contact your service provider for assistance.
• High Call Costs: If you’re concerned about high call costs, double-check with your service provider that you have a suitable plan in place or consider using internet-based calling options instead.
• Problems with area codes: When you try to dial a number it will sometimes say that the number is not correct, this can sometimes be because you have not dialed the correct area code, make sure that you double check what the correct area code is for the area you are calling.

Conclusion

Calling Australia from New Zealand doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following the steps in this guide and understanding the required codes, you can easily connect with friends, family, or business contacts across the Tasman Sea. Remember to double-check all the digits, be mindful of time zone differences, and explore alternative calling options to make the process as seamless and cost-effective as possible. With a little preparation, you can make international calls with confidence. Happy calling!

If you have any further questions or require any additional assistance, feel free to reach out to your phone service provider. They will be able to give you information on the best way for you to make your international calls.