Whether you’re planning to visit a friend in Sydney, make a consultant call to Melbourne, or wish to chat and catch up with family in Perth, knowing how to call an Australian number from New Zealand is crucial. Even though you’re essentially next door, the calling process is riddled with steps, codes, and considerations—especially if comparing mobile versus landline calling, or international dialling formats and fees. Here is the detailed guide showing how to call from NZ to Australia, so you can have a hassle-free phone call.

How to make a call from NZ to Australia? International Format, Codes and Cost

#1:- International Dialling Format for making a call from NZ to AU

Since Australia is a different country, calling Australia from New Zealand should use the international dialling format. Here’s the standard format you should follow:

Country code + area code (without 0) + phone number

Here is an example of the above format.

+ 61 + Area Code (without 0) + Phone Number

Here is the detailed breakdown of this format:

• 61 – Australia Country Code.
• Area Code – These define the states and territories.
• Phone Number – Landline (8 digits), Mobile number (9 digits)

#2:- Australian Area Codes Table

Here are the area codes for Australia regions. This information will be useful if you are calling from a landline.

Example: To call a Sydney landline number (02) 9123 5432 from NZ, you would dial:

+61 2 9876 5432

Alternatively, you can dial 0061 2 9123 5432.

#3:- Calling Australian Mobile Numbers from NZ

Australian mobile numbers usually begin with 04 when they are dialled from Australia. But when you make the call from New Zealand, you should follow the international standard.

• Avoid the 0
• Add the +61 country code
• Dial the remaining digits

Example: If you want to call an Australian mobile number 0412 345 678 from New Zealand, dial: +61 412 345 678

Alternatively, you can dial 0061 412 345 678

#4:- Roaming and Local SIM options for Calling Australia

If you’re in New Zealand and using your mobile to call Australia, you have a couple of options:

a. Roaming

If your mobile plan includes international roaming, you can dial using the international format. However, be aware of the often high roaming charges.

b. Using a Local NZ SIM

Most of the local NZ telecom providers usually offer free calling to Australia in their plans. Spark, 2degrees, and One NZ have plans that include offers and add-ons that significantly reduce the cost of calling Australia. If you want to regularly call an Australian number, consider the appropriate plan or add-ons.

#5:- Cost Considerations: Avoiding Bill Shock

If you are not on the right plan, you will probably be shocked seeing the bill after making calls to Australia. Here’s how to keep costs under control:

a. Use VoIP or Internet Calling

There are many apps like WhatsApp, Zoom, Facebook Messenger, FaceTime, etc, that allow free calls over Wi-Fi or mobile data. To make calls like this, both you and the recipient need internet access and the app on the phone. Please keep in mind that this is not an option if you are calling from a landline or calling to a landline.

b. Buy an International Calling Add-On

Most NZ mobile providers offer reasonably priced add-ons or packs for calling Australia. For example:

• Spark NZ: Offers “International Value Packs” with cheap rates to call Australian numbers.
• 2degrees: Bundled packs that include Australian minutes.
• One NZ: Offers monthly and pay-as-you-go international call options.

c. Prepaid Calling Cards

Prepaid international calling cards are available at supermarkets or online. These allow you to call Australia by dialling a local access number and entering a PIN, making them cost-effective if used correctly.

#6:- Quick Reference Examples

Conclusion

You’ll find the process of calling Australia from New Zealand easy if you know the area codes and a few helpful tips. Whether you’re placing a quick call to a friend or engaged in a lengthy business discussion, knowing the proper format and the most cost-effective way can help you avoid wasting time and money, as well as the resulting headache. The good news is, in the age of smartphones, internet calling apps and competitive mobile plans, it has never been easier to keep in touch across the Tasman Sea. So when you need to make that call to Australia again, just refer back here and dial away!