Stay connected while you travel.
Roaming lets you use your Lightwire Mobile service while you’re overseas.
If roaming is available in the country you’re visiting, you can keep using your phone number and stay connected on the go.
That means your included calls, texts, and data can still be used while you’re away, depending on your plan and destination.
Good to know
- Roaming helps you keep using your usual NZ number while you travel
- Your calls, texts, and data can continue to work in approved countries
- Service can vary depending on the country and overseas network
How roaming works
Roaming allows you to stay connected using your existing base plan in approved countries.
That means your included texts, calls, and data can still be used while you’re away.
This applies both in the country you’re visiting and when contacting local numbers back home in New Zealand.
Roaming or eSIM when travelling?
Both can be useful. The right option depends on how you want to travel.
Use roaming if you want to:
- Keep using your usual NZ number
- Receive calls and texts as normal
- Use one service without changing SIMs
- Keep things simple for a short trip
Use a travel eSIM if you want to:
- Get a separate data option for travel
- Compare local or travel data pricing
- Use data heavily while overseas
- Keep roaming turned off and use apps over data instead
Simple rule of thumb:
If you want the easiest option, roaming is usually the simplest. If you want to shop around for travel data, a separate eSIM may suit you better.
Before you travel
- Check that your destination is supported for roaming
- Make sure roaming is active on your account before you leave
- Think about whether roaming or a travel eSIM will suit your trip better
- Keep an eye on your usage while you’re away
- If you’re unsure, ask us before you travel
Supported countries
Here are the countries currently listed in your roaming guide.
| Asia | Europe | Africa & Americas |
|---|---|---|
| China | France | South Africa |
| Hong Kong | Germany | Canada |
| India | Ireland | United States |
| Japan | Italy | |
| Korea Republic | Portugal | |
| Macau | Spain | |
| Malaysia | United Kingdom | |
| Philippines | ||
| Singapore | ||
| Thailand |
Troubleshooting
A few simple checks can often get things working again.
Having trouble making calls?
- Make sure Global Roaming is active on your account. If you’re unsure, get in touch with us.
- Check your phone’s signal bars. If there’s no signal, try moving to another spot.
- Reset your phone’s network settings and reinsert your SIM card.
- Restart your phone.
Can’t receive calls while roaming?
- Check that your current location supports roaming with Lightwire.
- If roaming should be working but isn’t, reset your network settings and reinsert your SIM card.
Voicemail issues while roaming?
- Check with us whether your current location supports roaming with Lightwire.
- If the issue continues, reset your network settings and reinsert your SIM card.
Caller ID not working?
It’s normal for Caller ID to be unavailable while roaming. Some landline numbers may still appear, depending on the overseas network.
Frequently asked questions
Will I be charged if I don’t use my phone?
Roaming charges can depend on how your plan works and whether your phone connects while you’re away. If you’re unsure, it’s best to check with us before you travel.
Can I use WiFi Calling instead of roaming?
WiFi Calling may help in some situations, but it won’t always replace roaming. If you want to keep using your NZ number for calls, texts, and mobile data while travelling, roaming is usually the simpler option.
Do I need to turn roaming on before I travel?
Yes, it’s a good idea to make sure roaming is active on your account before you leave New Zealand.
Should I use roaming or buy a travel eSIM?
If you want the easiest option and would like to keep using your normal number, roaming is usually best. If you mainly want data and are happy using a separate setup, a travel eSIM may suit you better.
What if roaming isn’t working when I arrive?
Start by checking whether your destination is supported, then restart your phone, check your signal, and try resetting your network settings. If it still isn’t working, get in touch and we’ll help.
Need help?
If you’re not sure whether roaming or a travel eSIM is right for your trip, or something doesn’t look right once you arrive, we’re here to help.
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