Top up your prepaid SIM
Topping up a prepaid SIM is quick and easy, and there are usually several different ways to do it. On this page, we’ll cover how to top up your prepaid SIM and how often you need to do it to keep your service active.
How to top up your prepaid SIM
You can top up your prepaid SIM in a variety of ways. Below is a summary of the most common methods used in New Zealand. These methods apply whether you have a physical SIM card or an eSIM. Keep in mind that the exact steps might vary slightly depending on your provider.
Top up online
- Create an account and log in to your provider’s website. If you don’t want to create an account, many NZ providers offer a one-off top up or “Guest Top Up” option.
- Register a payment method. You can usually choose between a credit or debit card, or digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Some providers now also support BNPL services like Afterpay for larger value packs.
- Navigate to the top up section.
- Enter the mobile number you wish to top up.
- Select your preferred prepaid plan (often called Value Packs) or the credit amount you want to add.
- You’ll typically receive a confirmation on the screen or via SMS once the top up is successful.
Top up via app
- Download your provider’s app from App Store or Google Play.
- Log in to your account.
- Find the Top Up tab and follow the prompts to complete your payment.
Top up via call or SMS
To top up over the phone, you’ll need to dial a specific service number or use a USSD code (like *100# or *888#) and follow the automated prompts. Topping up via text works similarly; you usually send a specific keyword (like “TOPUP”) to a short code provided by your telco.
Generally, you need to have a payment card already linked to your account to use these methods. You can find the specific numbers or codes on your provider’s website.
Top up via voucher
Topping up with a voucher, you first need to buy a top up code from a physical store. These are usually printed directly on your store receipt rather than a physical card. Vouchers are available at your provider’s brand stores, as well as supermarkets like Woolworths, New World, and PAK’nSAVE, or at dairies, NZ Post outlets, and most petrol stations (like Z, BP, or Mobil).
The voucher will have a unique code that you provide to your telco by entering it into your provider’s app, calling them, or texting the code to their service number. Instructions are usually printed directly on your receipt.
Set up “auto top up”
Many providers offer an “auto top up” service. This is a great option if you use your prepaid SIM every month and have a plan that fits your needs for data, calls, and texts.
To set it up, select your prepaid plan, choose a schedule (e.g., every 28 days or monthly, or when your balance gets low), and link your payment method. Your SIM will then stay active without you having to remember the expiry date.
Can I top up a prepaid SIM that isn’t my own?
Yes, most New Zealand providers allow you to top up a SIM for someone else as long as you have their mobile number. The easiest way to do this is through the provider’s website using the “Guest Top Up” feature. You simply enter the mobile number of the person you want to help out.
You can also do this over the phone. The automated system may ask if you want to top up the number you’re calling from; select “no” and enter the mobile number you wish to top up instead.
Can I add extra data to my prepaid SIM?
This depends on your provider. Most NZ telcos allow you to buy data add-ons or extra data packs if you run out of data before your plan expires. Some providers also offer “data clocks” or similar features for short-term unlimited data.
Please note! The validity period for extra data is usually limited (often 7, 14, or 30 days) or it may expire at the same time as your main plan. Check with your provider to see how long your add-on lasts.
Keep in mind that buying extra data can be more expensive per GB. If you find you’re running out of data often, it might be more cost-effective to switch to a plan with a higher data allowance next time you top up.
Check if your provider offers data rollover
In NZ, many prepaid plans allow you to carry over unused data to the next month as long as you renew your plan on time, which can save you from needing to buy extra add-ons.
How often do I need to top up my prepaid SIM?
Most standard prepaid plans in New Zealand run on a 28-day or a 30-day (monthly) cycle. After this time, you’ll need to top up again to renew your inclusions. If you are on a long expiry or pay as you go (PAYG) credit plan, your balance might last much longer.
Importantly, the SIM card itself has a service expiry. To keep your SIM active and prevent your number from being disconnected, you must top up or use the service (like making a paid call or sending a text) at least once every 6 to 12 months (depending on the provider). If you don’t, the provider will deactivate the SIM, and you may lose your mobile number.
