HelloRoam sells eSIM data plans for China, with e SIM pricing from NZ$5.97 across 212+ carrier networks. Scan a QR code and you're connected in under two minutes, no physical SIM swap needed. Your Spark, One NZ, or 2degrees number stays active while the e-sim handles data. You can get a refund on unactivated eSIMs within 180 days, plus 24/7 live support.
- network coverage
212+- 5G support
5G- to activate
2 minutes
Last updated
China travel sim plans from HelloRoam
Sorted for less: eSIM plans for China start from NZ$5.97, with local 4G LTE and 5G mobile data on trusted carrier networks. Works on all eSIM compatible phones. Pay in NZD. Beijing and Shanghai airport SIM kiosks require passport registration and charge peak tourist rates that Kiwis can beat by ordering at home. HelloRoam delivers a China travel sim before you leave New Zealand, starting at NZ$5.97 on China Unicom 5G networks covering Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen.
China eSIM with fast 5G coverage
HelloRoam offers eSIM plans for China starting from NZ$5.97. Connect on 5G networks including China Unicom. China is a major destination for NZ travellers, especially for cultural tourism and backpacking off the beaten track.
- Plans start at NZ$5.97 with 5G speeds
- Coverage from China Unicom and 1+ other operators
- Instant activation in under 2 minutes
- 180-day money-back guarantee
- China coverage across major cities
- Network
- 5G
- Plans From
- NZ$5.97
- Activation
- Under 2 min
- Guarantee
- 180 days
How to Set Up an eSIM in China
Follow these steps to get started with an eSIM on your iPhone or Android.
Set up an eSIM on your iPhone with the HelloRoam app
Set up an eSIM on your Android with the HelloRoam app
- 1
Choose your plan and checkout online
Pick a mobile data plan for your destination and pay securely in NZD.
2Scan the QR code
Scan the QR code to install your eSIM straight away.
- 3
Activate in minutes: ready when you land
Your eSIM activates when you arrive at your destination. No SIM swap, no queues, no airport kiosk.
4Manage it all from our mobile app
Track usage, top up data, and manage your eSIMs in one spot.
Plans changed? No dramas. You're covered.
Travel plans change, and that's okay. With HelloRoam, unactivated and unscanned eSIMs qualify for a full refund within 180 days of purchase. No dramas.
Learn more about our refund policyHelloRoam China eSIM vs Spark, Vodafone NZ and 2degrees
Comparing an e SIM vs Spark, 2degrees, or One NZ roaming for China? Spark charges NZ$6/day, 2degrees NZ$5/day, and One NZ around NZ$5/day. HelloRoam eSIM starts from NZ$5.97 with local network speeds and a refund on unactivated eSIMs within 180 days. You pay less than a single day of carrier roaming and get no surprise bills.
| Feature comparison | HelloRoam | Local provider | Limited data eSIM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refund on unactivated eSIMs |  Feature available |  Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Live chat support | Feature available |  Feature available | Feature available |
| NZ$0 activation fees | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available |
| Hotspot and data sharing included | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| No data overage fees | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| QR code delivered instantly | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available |
| Premium China carrier networks | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
Why Kiwi Travellers Pick HelloRoam for Their China Trip
24/7 live support
Need help from Tokyo at midnight or London at 2am? Our support team is on 24/7. A real person responds in under 2 minutes. No bots, no hold music, no runaround. Live chat, WhatsApp, and email are all available so you get help however suits you best.
Best eSIM for China
Connect to local 4G LTE and 5G networks in China the moment you land. Buy your plan, scan the QR code, and get online when you land. No roaming charges, no SIM swap. Local carrier speeds mean maps, streaming, and messaging run without a hitch from the airport kerb.
Dual SIM: keep your NZ number
Keep your Spark, One NZ, or 2degrees number active for calls and texts. HelloRoam runs on a second eSIM line on any dual SIM phone and handles all your data in China. Family and friends ring your NZ number as normal while you browse on local data rates overseas.
212+ networks worldwide
HelloRoam eSIM connects to 212+ carrier networks across 185+ countries. Your phone picks the strongest 4G/5G or 5G signal when you land and switches as you move. That means consistent mobile internet whether you're in a major city, at a rural guesthouse, or on a highway between stops.
Data alerts before you run out
You get an alert at 80% data so you never run dry mid-trip. Top up your eSIM plan from the app with no profile reinstall and no store visit. Your data usage history stays in the dashboard so you can see exactly what you've spent and plan the rest of your trip.
Local 4G/5G speeds in China
Connect to local 4G LTE and 5G networks in China. HelloRoam picks the strongest signal for maps, streaming, and video calls wherever you travel. Local network speeds make a genuine difference when you're navigating a new city or jumping on a video call with people back home.
Regional plans for multi-country trips
Heading to Japan, Thailand, the UK, or Fiji after China? HelloRoam regional eSIM plans cover Asia-Pacific, Europe, and 185+ countries on one QR code. No SIM swapping between stops. One prepaid data plan covers your whole itinerary so you spend less time worrying about connectivity and more time exploring.
Hotspot tethering in China included
Share your eSIM data with a laptop or tablet via hotspot. No extra fees, no fiddly setup. Works on all eSIM compatible phones including iPhone and Samsung Galaxy. Useful for keeping a travel partner connected or getting a work laptop online when hotel Wi-Fi isn't up to scratch.
Best eSIM Prices for China
Compare eSIM plans for China and save versus Spark, One NZ, and 2degrees international roaming.
| Number of days | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 day | NZ$5.97 |
| 3 days | NZ$17.03 |
| 7 days | NZ$36.80 |
| 15 days | NZ$71.69 |
| 22 days | NZ$97.25 |
| 30 days | NZ$121.86 |
HelloRoam vs Other eSIM Providers for China
HelloRoam offers a refund on unactivated eSIMs within 180 days, zero activation fees, and 24/7 live support. See how HelloRoam stacks up against Airalo, Holafly, Saily, and other eSIM providers for your China trip.
| Feature comparison | HelloRoam | Airalo | Holafly | Nomad | Saily | Ubigi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Refund on unactivated eSIMs | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| 24/7 live chat support | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature available |
| NZ$0 activation fees | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Hotspot and data sharing included | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| No data overage charges | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Instant QR code delivery | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available |
| Premium China carrier networks | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Own branded carrier identity (SPN) | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature available |
What Is an eSIM and How Does It Work in China?
An eSIM is a digital SIM card built into your mobile. No plastic chip, no SIM tray to fiddle with. Scan a QR code to install it on any eSIM compatible phone and you're connected in under 2 minutes. It works as a prepaid mobile data plan for China travel with no airport SIM counter queue, no replacement SIM, and no carrier contract. Follow the step-by-step setup guide and you'll be sorted well before your flight from Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch. guide
Mobile connectivity guide for China
China has world-class 5G infrastructure in its major cities. China Unicom covers Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Xi'an, and all major tourist destinations with strong connectivity.
China's internet operates under national regulations meaning international services like Google, WhatsApp, and Facebook are blocked without a VPN. A HelloRoam eSIM gives you reliable local data. You will need a VPN app downloaded before arrival to access blocked services.
- HelloRoam connects to China Unicom 5G, China Telecom 5G in China
- 5G on China Unicom across Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Xi'an, and major cities
- Connect at Beijing Capital, Shanghai Pudong, or Guangzhou airports immediately
- Covers the Great Wall, Terra Cotta Warriors, Zhangjiajie, and Guilin
eSIM Travel Tips for China
Download a VPN before you leave New Zealand
China's Great Firewall blocks Google Maps, WhatsApp, Gmail, Instagram, and YouTube. Download a reputable VPN app before you leave NZ as VPN app stores are also blocked inside China. ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or Astrill work well in China. Your HelloRoam eSIM provides the data connection; the VPN gives you access to familiar apps.
Use Chinese alternatives for navigation
Inside China without a VPN, Baidu Maps (in Chinese) or DiDi ride-hailing are the local alternatives to Google Maps and Uber. Some NZ travellers find having both a VPN for Google Maps and downloading Baidu as a backup is the best strategy.
Activate at home before your flight from Auckland
Set up your HelloRoam eSIM at home before your Air NZ or connecting flight from Auckland. Enable data when you land at Beijing Capital or Shanghai Pudong and you are on Chinese coverage immediately.
WeChat is essential for travel in China
WeChat is the dominant messaging and payment app in China. Create a WeChat account before you arrive as it requires phone number verification. WeChat Pay linked to a foreign card is now possible and very useful in a cash-light China.
Remote areas and Tibet have restricted coverage
Tibet and some remote western Chinese provinces have additional travel restrictions for foreign visitors and may have limited connectivity. Check your visa situation for any restricted areas before planning these routes.
Mobile networks in China: what NZ visitors need to know
HelloRoam connects on China Unicom in China. China Unicom is one of China's three state-owned carriers with extensive 5G and 4G coverage across the country. All Chinese carriers operate under national internet regulations. Your HelloRoam eSIM connects automatically to the best available China Unicom signal.
- China Unicom
- 5G
- China Telecom
- 5G
HelloRoam eSIM vs NZ carrier roaming in China
Your data options for a China trip from New Zealand.
| Category | HelloRoam eSIM Recommended | Chinese SIM card | Spark, Vodafone NZ, or One NZ China roaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical cost | From NZ$6.04 total | NZ$24.03–NZ$48.07 total | NZ$17.17–NZ$34.33/day |
| Details | Plans from NZ$5.97. Buy before your flight from Auckland, activate at home, and arrive in Beijing or Shanghai already on local data. | Chinese SIM cards require passport registration and can be difficult for foreign visitors to obtain. A HelloRoam eSIM avoids this registration requirement. | China roaming from NZ carriers can cost $8 to $15 per day. A two-week China trip on roaming could cost $110 to $210. |
Prices approximate as of . Actual savings vary.
Best time to visit China from New Zealand
China is best visited in spring from April to May or autumn from September to October. Summer is very hot and humid across eastern China. Winter is cold in the north but excellent for fewer crowds. The Chinese New Year (Golden Week in January/February) and National Day Golden Week in October see massive domestic travel and tourist site overcrowding.
Reviewed by HelloRoam Editorial Team
Reviewed by HelloRoam Editorial Team
Top Destinations in China
Beijing
HelloRoam works across Beijing, China. Pick your data plan and connect the moment you arrive.
China Mobile and Unicom run 5G in Beijing. Note that many foreign apps need a VPN to function in China.
Shanghai
HelloRoam keeps you connected in Shanghai with fast mobile data. Browse our Shanghai eSIM plans for China.
China Mobile 5G blankets Shanghai. Activate your eSIM before landing and have your VPN ready at Pudong Airport.
Chengdu
HelloRoam provides reliable data coverage in Chengdu, China for travelers on the go.
China Mobile 5G covers Chengdu well. The metro has excellent signal, but bring a VPN for standard apps.
Guangzhou
HelloRoam delivers mobile data in Guangzhou, keeping you online throughout China.
China Mobile 5G covers Guangzhou and the metro network. Use a VPN to access apps like Google and WhatsApp.
Shenzhen
HelloRoam connects you in Shenzhen via China Mobile and China Unicom 5G networks. Coverage is strong at Bao'an International Airport and across the Futian CBD. A china esim plan works from the moment you cross the border from Hong Kong.
Turn on your HelloRoam eSIM before crossing from Hong Kong at Futian or Luohu checkpoints to stay online without a gap.
Suzhou
Arrive in Suzhou ready to connect. HelloRoam covers all of China with fast data.
Suzhou near Shanghai has China Unicom 5G. The high-speed train from Shanghai has consistent signal.
Zhengzhou
Stay connected in Zhengzhou with HelloRoam eSIM data plans that work across China.
Zhengzhou has China Mobile 5G in the city and around Zhengzhou East high-speed rail station.
Showing slide 1 of 7
Reviews
What Kiwi Travellers Say
Real reviews from Trustpilot and the App Store, quoted as written.
40k+ travellers have used HelloRoam
Cat
On a trip to Europe, my hotel Wi-Fi was so slow and outside Wi-Fi was unreliable. I couldn’t take it anymore so I got helloroam for a few days. It was tricky to set up correctly because of the primary settings (with my original number). But I reached out to their customer service via WhatsApp. Super responsive and helpful, with specific and clear steps to troubleshoot. Appreciate having 4G roaming instead of being stuck with in and out Wi-Fi during my trip!!
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Very good experience! The eSIM was easy to set up and worked great in London. It was much cheaper than it would have been to use my own operator there.
Ilona
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
metulker
Hard to set up but help was good
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Reuben
Really happy with HelloRoam. Everything worked as expected, from messaging and Google Maps through to streaming without any issues. Easy to use, reliable and affordable. Would happily use them again when travelling.
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Angeline
Reliable connection. Reasonable pricing.
Rated 4 out of 5 by this reviewer
Last updated
China eSIM Questions
How much does a China data plan cost for New Zealand travellers?
A China travel sim from HelloRoam starts at NZ$5.97 on China Unicom 5G networks. HelloRoam activates by QR code before you fly from New Zealand. Coverage spans Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen. No physical SIM card swap, no passport registration at the counter.
Which China plan suits Kiwis visiting Beijing or Shanghai?
Kiwis visiting China pick a data plan from HelloRoam on China Unicom and China Telecom 5G networks covering major cities. Plans start at NZ$5.97 with no contract. Activate by QR code at home before boarding in Auckland. No airport SIM kiosk, no NZ carrier roaming fees on arrival.
What is the best eSIM for China from New Zealand?
For Kiwi travellers, HelloRoam is a simple eSIM option for China. Plans start from NZ$5.97 across 212+ carrier networks in 185+ countries. Buy online, scan the QR code at home on Wi-Fi, and connect the moment you land. It's cheaper than Spark roaming at NZ$6/day, 2degrees at NZ$5/day, and One NZ travel passes. You get local 4G/5G speeds, a refund on unactivated eSIMs within 180 days, and 24/7 live chat support.
How much does an eSIM cost for China?
eSIM plans for China start from NZ$5.97. That's well under what Spark charges for roaming ($6/day) or 2degrees ($5/day for selected countries). Fixed data plans run from 1GB to 20GB. Unlimited daily plans suit longer stays, OE trips, and remote work. All plans include local 4G LTE and 5G with no overage charges and no carrier contract.
Which networks does eSIM work on in China?
HelloRoam connects to local carrier networks in China and your phone picks the strongest 4G LTE or 5G signal on arrival. Coverage spans major cities, airports, highways, and popular tourist areas. For Kiwis heading out of Auckland (AKL), Wellington (WLG), Christchurch (CHC), or Queenstown (ZQN), data is ready the moment you land.
How do I get an eSIM for China before my trip?
Buy your China eSIM on helloroam.com or the HelloRoam app before you fly from AKL, WLG, CHC, or ZQN. Scan the QR code in your phone Settings to install at home on Wi-Fi. Your eSIM activates automatically when you land in China. The whole process takes under two minutes. No airport kiosk, no SIM swap.
Does iPhone work with a China eSIM?
iPhone XS and all newer models support eSIM for China. Open Settings, tap Mobile Data, then Add eSIM, and scan the HelloRoam QR code. Your Spark, One NZ, or 2degrees number stays active on the physical SIM line while HelloRoam handles data in China. That includes iPhone 15, 16, and SE models from 2020 onward.
Does a HelloRoam eSIM work in China?
Yes, HelloRoam eSIM plans work across China on China Unicom. Note that many international apps and websites are blocked in China. Download a VPN before arriving to access Google, WhatsApp, and other familiar services.
Do I need a VPN with my HelloRoam eSIM in China?
Your HelloRoam eSIM provides the data connection but China's internet regulations block Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, and other services. Download a reputable VPN app before leaving New Zealand. VPN apps cannot be downloaded once you are inside China.
How much does an eSIM for China cost?
HelloRoam eSIM plans for China start at NZ$5.97. Larger plans suit longer backpacking trips through multiple Chinese cities and regions. Compared with roaming charges from home carriers, a HelloRoam plan costs significantly less for a typical trip to China. There are no hidden fees or surprise charges on your home bill.
Which network does HelloRoam use in China?
HelloRoam eSIM for China connects on China Unicom with 5G coverage. China has 2 network partners in the HelloRoam system. Your phone selects the best available signal automatically. Install the eSIM at home in New Zealand and it connects the moment you land.
How many days does the China eSIM last?
HelloRoam eSIM plans for China come in durations from 12 to 30 days depending on the data size you choose. China has 5G coverage via China Unicom. A longer plan suits NZ travellers on extended OEs or big trips. Select your plan, scan the QR code at home, and connect from the moment you land.
How much data do I need in China?
Most NZ travellers in China use 3 to 10 GB per week for maps, social media, messaging, and video calls home. China has 5G coverage on China Unicom. A 5 GB plan suits short trips while a 10 to 20 GB plan covers longer stays. Select your plan, scan the QR code, and you are sorted before your flight.
Does China have 5G coverage?
Yes, China has 5G coverage through China Unicom. HelloRoam eSIM plans connect on the best available 5G signal across China. Install your eSIM in New Zealand before you leave and connect on arrival.
Is a SIM card or eSIM better for China?
An eSIM is the better choice for China for most NZ travellers. HelloRoam eSIM plans start at NZ$5.97 with 5G coverage on China Unicom. An eSIM costs less than a physical SIM card from airport shops in China. Select your plan, scan the QR code at home, and connect within minutes of landing.
What to Know Before You Buy
eSIM requires an unlocked, eSIM-compatible device. Check your phone settings before buying.
Travel eSIMs are data-only, so your Spark, One NZ, or 2degrees number keeps handling calls and texts as normal on your primary SIM.
Coverage quality varies by location within China. Urban areas typically have strong 4G/5G coverage, while rural or remote areas may have limited connectivity.
Install your eSIM before you head off. Activation requires an internet connection, which may not be available at your destination airport.
Transparency Notice
- Service Provider Name (SPN)
- That's HelloRoam you see up in your phone's status bar, not a mystery reseller name. The SPN is a standard field baked into every eSIM profile, and most travel eSIM resellers do not bother provisioning their own.
- Public Network Name (PNN)
- The PNN is the network name field in your eSIM profile, set out in 3GPP TS 31.102 (EF_PNN). Your phone can read it to show the name of the network you're connected to.
- Access Point Name (APN)
- Your HelloRoam eSIM sets its own Access Point Name automatically when it installs, so your mobile locks onto the strongest local network without you touching a single setting.
What you see is our standard retail pricing across 185+ countries, nothing marked up for the page you landed on. Plans get recommended off real traveller feedback and actual network performance, not guesswork. You can get a refund on unactivated eSIMs within 180 days.
Future Syncs Limited 124 City Road, London, EC1V 2NX, UK +44 203 916 6249 help@helloroam.com Reg. No. 15950168
