If you are a sports fan, you must know that ESPN Plus is the choice of millions of Sports lovers. ESPN+ took the US by storm and has become one of the most popular online sports streaming services with premium content and live matches. But you can not watch ESPN+ in New Zealand due to geo-restrictions
However, you can watch major events like AFL, NRL, Rugby, Cricket, Football, and more anywhere using a premium VPN like ExpressVPN. So, in this blog, we will explain everything you need to know about watching ESPN+ in New Zealand with a VPN.
Why Does New Zealand Not Have Access to ESPN?
Due to the international content licensing policy, ESPN is unavailable in New Zealand.
But with the help of a VPN, you can change your New Zealand IP address with the server’s IP address. In this way, you can trick ESPN into believing you live in the USA, allowing you to use the service.
How to Watch ESPN+ in New Zealand [Quick Steps]
ESPN+ is a geo-restricted service only available in the US, but you can watch it anywhere with a VPN. Here’s how to get ESPN+ in New Zealand:
- Subscribe to a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN, as it offers high-speed servers.
- Download and install the VPN app on your device.
- Open the VPN app and connect to a US server (the New York server is recommended).
- Go to ESPN+ and sign up for the service by adding a payment method.
- Enjoy watching ESPN+ in New Zealand without any hassle.
Note: To watch ESPN+ content, follow the easy steps mentioned in this guide. The sports streaming service offers both monthly and annual plans.
Why Do You Need a VPN to Watch ESPN+ in New Zealand?
You need a VPN to watch ESPN+ in New Zealand because ESPN Plus is a geo-restricted sports streaming service that can only be accessed from the US. If you try to watch ESPN Plus in New Zealand, you will receive the following message on your screens:
“We’re sorry, an unexpected error occurred.”
ESPN Plus uses IP detection mechanisms to check the IP address of its visitors and block access to the service from outside the US.
If you are traveling or currently not residing in the US, you can use a premium VPN like ExpressVPN to get a US IP address and change your location to watch ESPN+ in New Zealand.
When you connect to a US server, the VPN service routes your traffic through its US server, making ESPN+ believe you’re in the United States.
VPN lets you watch all your favorite sports online on ESPN Plus in New Zealand.
How Do I Subscribe to ESPN Plus in New Zealand?
There are 4 methods to subscribe to ESPN Plus in New Zealand.
- Subscribe to ESPN+ using a US credit card
- Subscribe to ESPN+ using a Virtual Prepaid Card or Gift Card
- Subscribe to ESPN+ using a Google Gift Card
- Subscribe to ESPN+ using an Apple Gift Card
How to Subscribe to ESPN Plus By Using a US Credit Card?
ESPN Plus only accepts US Credit Cards. You can ask your friend who lives in the US to share his card details with you so you can easily buy an ESPN+ subscription in New Zealand.
You can follow these steps to subscribe to ESPN Plus using a US Credit Card:
- Get a premium VPN (we recommend ExpressVPN)
- Connect to a US server of ExpressVPN (Recommended: New York).
- Visit the ESPN website and click “Subscribe to ESPN+ Only” or “Get the Disney Bundle.”
- Now, create an account if you don’t have one. You can also log in with your Facebook account.
- Choose your desired ESPN Plus subscription plan and enter a payment method. You can also pay with PayPal and a US credit card.
- Click “Buy ESPN+.”
- ESPN will show you your billing details and when it will renew.
- Click Get Started and start watching ESPN Plus.
How to Subscribe to ESPN Plus by Using a Virtual Prepaid Card or Gift Card?
ESPN+ only accepts US payment methods. Therefore, a virtual prepaid card is the easiest way to subscribe to ESPN+ NZ.
Follow these steps on how to subscribe to ESPN Plus in New Zealand with a virtual prepaid card:
- Go to StatesCard’s official website and sign up.
- Enter all the required details.
- Add funds to your StatesCard via Credit Card or PayPal. Note that the minimum amount is $50.
- Once the funds are transferred, download the ExpressVPN app on your device.
- Connect to a US server.
- Visit ESPN Plus website.
- Click Sign Up Now and log in.
- Select your desired plan, and in the payment method, add your StatesCard number.
- Click “Buy ESPN+.”
- Now, click Get Started and enjoy streaming ESPN in New Zealand.
How to Pay for ESPN+ in New Zealand on the Google Play Store?
Thankfully, the Android version of ESPN+ permits in-app purchases. If you don’t have an American payment method, you may simply subscribe to ESPN+ with the Google Play gift card from the Android app.
To pay for ESPN NZ using Google Play, follow these steps:
- Get a premium VPN (we recommend ExpressVPN)
- Connect to a US server of ExpressVPN (Recommended: New York).
- Create a new Gmail ID with the US as your location.
- Now open the Google Play Store with your new ID and search for the ESPN Plus app.
- You must also fund your Google account with a Google Play Gift. It is available on Amazon.
- When you have enough money in your account, open the ESPN+ app and select “Subscribe.”
- Select your desired option, and then use your Google Play funds to complete the transaction.
- You are all set. You have just signed up for ESPN+ in New Zealand.
How to Pay for ESPN+ in New Zealand Using Your Apple Account?
Users from New Zealand can also pay for ESPN+ using their Apple accounts. iOS users can easily subscribe to ESPN+ in New Zealand using their iTunes account or any other Apple-supported payment method now that ESPN+ offers in-app purchases.
For ESPN, log in with your Apple account and follow these steps on how to pay for ESPN Plus in New Zealand:
- Get a premium VPN (we recommend ExpressVPN)
- Connect to a US server of ExpressVPN (Recommended: New York).
- To change your region on your iPhone, go to Settings > Profile > Media and Purchases > Change Your Country/Region and choose United States.
- Renew the Terms of Service before going to the App Store.
- To access the US App Store, log out of your account and re-login.
- Purchase an Apple Gift Card from Amazon before continuing.
- Once you have enough money in your Apple account, download the ESPN+ app and select “Subscribe Now.”
- Select the package of your choice and complete the transaction.
- You are now prepared to enjoy ESPN+ in New Zealand.
What Are The Best VPNs to Watch ESPN Plus in New Zealand?
We have tested and evaluated 50+ VPNs on various criteria, like their unblocking abilities, servers, speed, and performance, to help you watch ESPN Plus in New Zealand. Here are the best VPNs for you:
1. ExpressVPN —Recommended VPN to Watch ESPN+NZ
- 3,000+ servers in 105 countries
- 25+ server locations in the US
- 8 simultaneous connections
- Best deal: NZD 11.28 /mo (US$ 6.67 /mo ) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free
ExpressVPN is one of the best VPNs for watching ESPN+ in New Zealand due to its exceptional speed. While connected to its New York server, we got a download speed of 87.18 Mbps, which was the best for streaming live sports in Ultra HD without buffering.
ExpressVPN has an extensive network of 3,000+ servers in 105 countries, among which there are 25+ US server locations to help you watch ESPN+.
We used the New York server to watch the content on ESPN+ and enjoyed bufferless streaming. The Buffalo server kept disconnecting and lowering the streaming quality. Hence not recommended.
ExpressVPN is one of the best ESPN Plus VPN. It offers plenty of servers in the US to help you unblock the platform. We recommend using it’s New York, New Jersey, and Chicago servers.
ExpressVPN allows you to watch your favorite content in HD and 4K because of its fast-speed servers. During testing, it gave me a download speed of 92.26 Mbps and an upload speed of 89.45 Mbps on my 100 Mbps connection.
With such amazing speeds, you can enjoy ESPN Plus live streaming free of buffering or lagging in 4K video quality and enjoy matches of UFC X Live or MLS on ESPN Plus in New Zealand.
ExpressVPN supports up to 8 simultaneous connections on one account, and you get apps for all major streaming devices, such as Android TV, Windows, iOS, macOS, and Amazon Firestick.
There’s a Smart DNS MediaStreamer feature for streaming ESPN Plus on Smart TVs, gaming consoles, and other devices that don’t offer native support for VPNs. With the help of this feature, you don’t have to worry about the ESPN app not being supported.
This best VPN for ESPN Plus is available for NZD 11.28 /mo (US$ 6.67 /mo ) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free. You can also take advantage of its 30-day money-back guarantee to try it risk-free.
- Fast speed servers
- Unlimited bandwidth
- MediaStreamer for unsupported devices
- AES-Encryption
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- It can be used on all major OS and devices
- 24/7 live chat support
- No MultiHop connections
2. Surfshark — Budget-Friendly VPN to Watch ESPN+ NZ
- 3200+ servers in 100+ countries
- 600+ servers in the US
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Best deal: NZD 4.21 /mo (US$ 2.49 /mo ) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee
Surfshark is the most budget-friendly VPN for watching ESPN+ NZ. It comes with a reasonable price of NZD 4.21 /mo (US$ 2.49 /mo ) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee, along with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
It offers 600+ servers in the US that will help you swap your IP address and watch ESPN+ in New Zealand easily. Overall, it offers 3200+ servers in 100+ countries to help you watch your favorite content online without the geo-restriction error.
To unblock ESPN Plus in New Zealand, we used the Los Angeles server. We have trouble connecting to ESPN+ on the Boston server, so avoid using it!
The Surfshark VPN is the most budget-friendly VPN for watching ESPN+ in New Zealand. We recommend using its Chicago, Los Angeles, and Seattle servers for buffer-free streaming.
Rest assured, despite its budget-friendly price tag, Surfshark offers great performance. Our tested servers deliver fast speeds so you can enjoy streaming your favorite sports online without buffering.
While connected to its Los Angeles server, we got a download speed of 88.48 Mbps and an upload speed of 79.42 Mbps on our 100 Mbps connection. Judging from the results, you won’t have to experience any buffering while streaming.
Furthermore, you get unlimited simultaneous connections on a single account. So, with one Surfshark subscription, you can live stream ESPN+ sports on as many devices as you want and even share it with your friends and family.
Surfshark provides a CleanWeb, Kill Switch, AES-256 encryption, Bypasser, and Camouflage Mode.
Surfshark also offers easy-to-use apps for various devices like Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Firestick, etc. There is a 30-days money-back guarantee to help you try it risk-free.
- Easy-to-use apps
- 7-day free trial for Android and iOS
- Unlimited simultaneous connection
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- It can be used on all major OS and devices
- 24/7 live chat support
- Some servers are slow and require some additional time to connect
3. NordVPN —Largest Server Network VPN to Watch ESPN+ NZ
- 6000+ ultra-fast servers in 61 countries
- 1970+ servers in the US
- 6 simultaneous connections
- Best deal: NZD 6.75 /mo (US$ 3.99 /mo ) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend
NordVPN is a popular VPN service among streamers known for its largest server network. Owing to its impressive server count, there is no geo-restricted platform that this VPN can’t unblock.
There are 6000+ ultra-fast servers in 61 countries, including more than 1970+ servers located in various US cities to help you watch your favorite sports on ESPN Plus.
To stream ESPN Plus, we used the New York server of NordVPN and enjoyed bufferless streaming. The Atlanta server #8321 of NordVPN kept disconnecting. Thus, it should not be used.
NordVPN features one of the largest server networks for watching ESPN Plus NZ. We recommend using its Atlanta, Dallas, and Chicago servers for lag-free streaming.
Each of NordVPN’s servers supports Ultra HD streaming, offering fast speeds. With these servers, you can also watch your favorite channels from anywhere, like Peacock TV channel and Voot in New Zealand.
We also conducted speed tests to ensure NordVPN can handle 4K streaming, and the results were excellent, as expected. We got a download speed of 86.49 Mbps and an upload speed of 79.42 Mbps on our home connection speed of 100 Mbps.
NordVPN allows up to six simultaneous connections, with apps for various devices, along with a Smart DNS feature for streaming on Smart TVs, Apple TV, gaming consoles, and devices that don’t have native support for VPNs.
You can get NordVPN for just NZD 6.75 /mo (US$ 3.99 /mo ) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend and a chance to try it risk-free using its 30-day money-back guarantee.
- 6 simultaneous connections
- Unblocks all major streaming platforms
- Smooth lag-free streaming
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- It can be used on all major OS and devices
- 24/7 live chat support
- The desktop app can be a bit slow
Does ESPN+ Work With VPN?
As ESPN+ uses an IP tracking tool to know your location, a VPN helps you trick ESPN+ into thinking you live in an American city. It happens when you connect to a server located in the USA on a VPN application.
Well, all VPNs are not perfect. Therefore, we recommend using only premium VPNs like ExpressVPN.
Can I Use a Free VPN to Watch ESPN+ in New Zealand?
Yes, free VPNs seem attractive, but there are hard chances that you will find any free VPN that can bypass the strict restrictions on ESPN+ and help you watch it in New Zealand.
It is because ESPN Plus is clever in identifying the VPNs and free VPNs are easiest to find out due to the higher number of connections on them.
You won’t have a smooth streaming experience if you find any. Free VPNs offer very slow speeds, due to which there are lots of buffers. Also, free VPNs are risky to use as they invade your privacy. These VPNs are famous for tracking your data and selling it to third parties.
For a bufferless and risk-free streaming experience, we recommend using only trustworthy VPNs like ExpressVPN.
What is The Difference Between ESPN and ESPN+?
ESPN Plus is a Video On Demand streaming platform by ESPN. The Walt Disney Company owns both ESPN and ESPN Plus.
ESPN Plus works without a cable TV subscription, whereas ESPN requires it. On ESPN Plus, you can watch all the content on ESPN Insider, plus selected original shows, documentaries, live programs,s and on-demand content that ESPN offers.
How Much Does it Cost for ESPN+ NZ?
Here are the details of the ESPN+ cost:
The ESPN Plus price in New Zealand is $10.99 (NZ$ 17.58 per month) for a monthly plan or $109.99 (NZ$ 175.97 per year) for a yearly plan, saving around 15 percent.
In addition, ESPN Plus offers a $14.99 (NZ$ 23.98/month) package with Disney Plus and Hulu, which saves subscribers $11/month compared to purchasing each program alone.
Additionally, ESPN Plus provides exclusive UFC pay-per-view events for $79.99 (NZ$ 127.97) to current customers. You can also sign up for the ESPN Plus free trial in New Zealand on its website to enjoy ESPN+ streaming free.
How to Get ESPN+ on Different Devices in New Zealand?
You can get ESPN Plus NZ on the following devices with the help of a VPN service via the ESPN+ app or the ESPN+ official website:
- PC
- Android
- iPhone and iPad
- Amazon Firestick and Fire TV
- Roku
- Apple TV
- Chromecast
- Kodi
How Can I Watch ESPN+ on my Android in New Zealand?
Follow these steps on how do I get ESPN Plus in New Zealand on Android:
- Subscribe to ExpressVPN and connect to a US server (New York is recommended).
- Navigate to the Google Play Store > Account > Add Another Account.
- Enter a new Gmail ID with the US as a region.
- Sign in to the Google Play Store using your new ID.
- Install the official ESPN+ app from the Google Play Store.
- Sign in and access ESPN+ to watch live sports.
How Do I Download ESPN+ on my iPhone & iPad in New Zealand?
Follow these steps on how to watch ESPN Plus in New Zealand on iPhone & iPad:
- From your iOS device, go to Settings.
- Tap on your Apple ID.
- Click Media & Purchases > View Account > Sign in to your account.
- Go to Country/ Region and change it to the US.
- Subscribe to ExpressVPN and connect to a US server. (Recommended server: New York)
- Visit the App Store and download the ESPN+ iOS app.
- Enjoy watching your favorite sports.
How Do I Get ESPN+ on My Computer in New Zealand?
ESPN Plus is available on almost all browsers, and accessing the service is simple on your PC. Just follow these steps to get ESPN Plus in New Zealand on your computer:
- Subscribe to ExpressVPN and download its app on your device.
- Connect to a US server (the New York server is recommended).
- From your web browser, head to the ESPN Plus website.
- Click the login icon in the upper right corner and enter your account details.
- Once logged in, you can enjoy watching ESPN+ on your PC.
How to Install ESPN+ on FireStick in New Zealand?
Follow these steps to watch ESPN+ on Firestick:
- Launch your Firestick and go to Settings.
- Go to Country Settings and change it to the US.
- Input a valid US address and a zip code.
- Click update.
- Now, download ExpressVPN from the Amazon App Store.
- Log in and connect to a US server. (Recommended Server: New York)
- Revisit the App Store and download the ESPN Plus app.
- Log in to your account and start streaming.
How Can I Get ESPN+ on Apple TV, Roku, Smart TVs, and Gaming Consoles in New Zealand?
You can watch ESPN+ on devices like Apple TV, Roku, and Smart TVs without Android OS, PS4, PS5, and Xbox, by using voice commands or through the home screen.
Follow these steps to watch ESPN+ Roku, Apple TV, Smart TVs, Gaming Consoles, and other devices:
- Set up ExpressVPN on your router.
- Connect your device to the VPN-enabled router and launch it.
- Download the ESPN app on the streaming device of your choice.
- Open the app and go to Settings.
- Scroll down to Account Information.
- Log in to your ESPN Plus account and get an activation code.
- Visit espn.com/watch/activate on your PC, phone, etc.
- Follow the directions to log in to your account.
- Once the account is activated, you will get a confirmation message on your TV screen.
- Navigate to the ESPN+ app and enjoy streaming.
Which Sports to Watch on ESPN+ in New Zealand?
Here are some of the top most-streamed sports events to watch on ESPN+ in New Zealand in 2024:
Sun Belt Basketball Championship | Womens March Madness | NCAA College Basketball Conference Tournaments |
NCAA Basketball Mens ACC Tournament | NCAA Basketball Mens ACC Tournament | NCAA Basketball Mens Big 12 Tournament |
College Basketball Big West Tournament | Womens March Madness 2024 on Roku | Womens March Madness 2024 on Chromecast |
Womens March Madness 2024 on iPhone | Womens March Madness First Four | Womens March Madness 2024 on Firestick |
Womens Basketball Invitational Tournament 2024 | Womens March Madness First Round | Womens March Madness Second Round |
KBO League | Gairo League | National Ice Hockey League |
Zumama Pro League | Fantasy Football | Russian Tramp Squads Pro |
Stanley Cup Pro League | UFC 299 | Pro Rugby |
What Good Shows Are on ESPN Plus in New Zealand?
ESPN+ gives you access to live streaming and world-class athletic events from various sports. While the main ESPN channel has the best NHL, MLB, NBA, and NFL coverage, ESPN+ also has many live games and programs. ESPN+, on the other hand, ESPN+ excels in its coverage of niche sports.
Shows are available for every professional sports event, like NBA, NHL, UFC, etc. Some of the most popular shows on ESPN Plus right now are:
Popular Shows on ESPN Plus | |
30 for 30 | Sports Nation |
Eli’s Places | Peyton’s Places |
Rowdy’s Places | Man In The Arena |
More than an Athlete | La Brea |
30 for 30 Shorts | Big Sky |
The Fantasy Show | Jessica Jones |
Skins | Grimm |
First Kill | Once Upon a Time |
What Are The Top Picks on ESPN Plus?
Here are some of the top and most popular content to view on ESPN Plus
- The US Open Tennis Championships 2023
- MLB Little League Classic 2023
- Ligue 1 2023
- The Traitors Australia 2023
- La Liga 2023
- Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement 2023
- UFC 291 Dustin Poirier vs Justin Gaethje 2
- Fantasy Football 2022
- NCAA Basketball Mens ACC Tournament 2022
- Big 12 Men’s Tournament 2023
- Laliga Santander
- NCAA Baseball
Can You Watch ESPN+ Without a TV Provider?
You don’t need cable TV to watch ESPN Plus. You can use live TV streaming services to watch ESPN+ on your web, mobile devices, smart TVs, and other devices like Apple TV, Firestick, and Roku.
Here are some streaming services on which you can watch ESPN+ Live stream without a cable TV subscription:
- YouTube TV
- Sling TV channel
- Fubo TV
- Live TV on Hulu
- AT&T TV
- Vidgo
- Film TV
- Hulu & Disney+ Bundle
Why is ESPN+ in New Zealand Not Working?
There could be many reasons why ESPN subscription NZ is not working, but the most common reasons are outages, slow internet connection, or malicious data/ cache.
If ESPN NZ is not working, try these fixes:
- Force close the ESPN Plus app and relaunch it.
- Check your network connection.
- Update the ESPN+ app on your device.
- Log out of your ESPN+ account and re-login.
- Clean cache and data of ESPN.
- Allow popups from the ESPN+ website.
More Guides From ESPN+
- Which are the best shows on ESPN Plus: Here are some of the best ones you can watch on ESPN+.
- How can you watch ESPN Plus on FireStick: Follow this guide to watch ESPN Plus on FireStick.
- How can you watch ESPN Plus on Kodi: Read along to learn how you can watch ESPN+ on Kodi.
- How to watch ESPN without cable: Here is how you can watch ESPN without cable.
- How to fix the ESPN Plus Error 1008: This guide will help you fix your 1008 error.
- How to watch ESPN Plus on Roku: If you want to watch ESPN+ on Roku then follow this guide.
FAQs:
Is ESPN Plus available in New Zealand?
How do I access ESPN+ in New Zealand?
How can I watch ESPN+ New Zealand for free?
How do I change my location on ESPN Plus?
Can a free VPN unblock ESPN Plus in New Zealand?
Can 30 for 30 sports documentaries be viewed in New Zealand on ESPN+?
Is ESPN+ on Amazon Prime?
Is it legal to watch ESPN+ in New Zealand with a VPN?
How much is ESPN+?
Conclusion
We hope now you know how to get ESPN Plus NZ. ESPN Plus offers the latest sports events you can watch anywhere with a premium VPN.
With the help of a VPN like ExpressVPN, you can enjoy live streaming all the latest matches and sports events like ESPN Plus NZ UFC.
Will ESPN Plus be available in New Zealand? The streaming platform hasn’t announced the release date of ESPN Plus in New Zealand.
If you have any further questions on how to watch ESPN+ Plus live, feel free to ask us in the comments section below.