What is an eSIM and how is it different from a physical SIM?

eSIM is a digital SIM built right into your phone or device. A physical SIM get's inserted into a phone, while an eSIM just needs to e activated.

Which phones support eSIM at One NZ?

Most modern mobile phones from Apple, Samsung, and Motorola support eSIM. You can view our full list at https://one.nz/mobile/esim/phones-tablets/

Can I use eSIM on a smartwatch or wearable?

Yes, many wearables like Apple Watch (Cellular models) support eSIM. You'll need to pair it with an eligible One NZ plan and activate it using the Watch app on your iPhone.

How do I transfer my eSIM to a new iPhone?

Use the 'Transfer from Nearby iPhone' option in Settings > Cellular on your new iPhone. Make sure both iPhones are nearby, running the latest iOS, and have Bluetooth and Wi-Fi turned on.

Can I switch back to a physical SIM later?

Yes, but you'll need to request a replacement physical SIM from One NZ. Contact customer care or visit a store.

Can I use eSIM when travelling internationally?

Yes, you can activate a travel eSIM while keeping your One NZ eSIM on the same device — if your phone supports dual eSIM use.

How many eSIMs can I store on my device?

Most phones support storing 5–8 eSIMs, but usually only 1 or 2 can be active at a time.

Is eSIM more secure than a physical SIM?

Yes, eSIMs are built into your device and harder to clone or steal. Always use device security features like passcodes and remote lock.

Can I activate an eSIM online without visiting a store?

Yes, many compatible phones can activate eSIM directly through My One NZ or the device settings.

Is eSIM available on prepaid plans at One NZ?

Currently, eSIM is supported on Pay Monthly plans. Prepaid support may vary.

eSIM. Embedded SIM for phones and wearables. One NZ.

What is eSIM?

eSIM means "embedded SIM", which means it's a digital SIM that's built into your phone, or maybe your tablet, or your watch.

An eSIM lets you connect to our network quickly, also letting you manage multiple numbers on a single phone. eSIMs are perfect for travellers to NZ too.

Getting set up is easy - just download and activate your eSIM, and then connect to our network in a matter of minutes. You can convert a physical SIM into an eSIM with us too.

Traditional SIM cards are a small, physical chip that you would slot into your phone. Whether it is physical or digital, the SIM identifies your phone number, letting you connect to a mobile network. There are still plenty of phones that use a physical SIM card, while newer model phones have eSIM capability.

Benefits of eSIM

You can manage two phone numbers, like Work and Personal.

Convenience

There's no need for a physical SIM card.
Activate your plan digitally.

Multiple numbers

Manage your personal and work numbers on the same phone - or device.

The smart way to connect

eSIM is the hassle-free, green alternative to physical SIM cards.

eSIM is now available for Pay Monthly connections, for Prepay using Prepay Plus, MyFlex, Pay and Go or Travel, SIM swaps and OneNumber for Wearable devices like Apple Watch.

A woman in a blue beanie and green jacket looking at a smartphone near a shoreline.

How to activate your eSIM

New to One NZ? Set up your eSIM in minutes.

There are two ways you can download an eSIM onto your mobile device.

If you visited a retail store and received an on-screen notification to download your eSIM, simply tap the notification and follow the on-screen prompts.

Otherwise, you'll need to download your eSIM by scanning the QR code provided to you in the welcome email.

eSIM Quick Transfer for Apple

You can easily switch from a physical SIM to an eSIM, or transfer your eSIM from one Apple device to another without needing to visit a One NZ retail store, or involve One NZ in the process.
Learn how to switch here.

Set up eSIM on iPhone or iPad

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