So we're going over mid September for a look around and I'm thinking it would be nice to have a cell phone - both to call back home and check on the kiddos, and to call round in NZ for whatever is the issue of the day. Strictly utilitarian, I couldn't care less what it looks like, so long as it works.
I have had the same phone for a long time here in the US - probably a cheap model that came free with the plan. I use it as little as possible. Don't like talking on the cell phone that much I guess.
Can someone explain about these prepaid SIM cards and unlocked phones? I see I can buy an unlocked GSM phone on ebay for around $50. A lot of them carry the disclaimer, make sure it works with your provider prior to purchasing. Is it safe to say that I can buy just about any GSM phone or is it possible I'd get over to NZ and it wouldn't work? Also I see something about 3G phones - is that a whole different animal?
Now for the SIM card - I see a prepaid card I can buy online. It is with Vodafone. So I would be accessing Vodafone's network I guess. The rates are .49NZ off peak and .89NZ peak hours - sound about right?
Last of all, is coverage pretty good across the islands? We'll be driving from Auckland down to Christchurch and hitting many spots along the way so I'll get to test this out
I know that's a lot of questions but probably quite basic stuff for anyone familiar with the phones over there. Any advice appreciated.