Importing phones from overseas for use in NZ

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chrislaing

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#31389 16-Mar-2009 15:41

Hi guys!

Just after a bit of advice.

I'm about to switch from telecom to vodafone, and as I understand it that means I'll be able to use handsets from overseas (e.g. US) with NZ sim cards.

What I really want to know is:

a) Am I right about being able to use US handsets in NZ?
b) Is it easy to do said importaing?
c) Are there any handsets which are so kickass that it's worth importing them?

Cheers guys :-)

Chris

Chris

sbiddle

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#201436 16-Mar-2009 16:12

Why are you so keen to import a handset rather than buy one here?

Yes handsets can be imported and will work. You need to be aware that in different markets many different models exist. Some devices do 850MHz 3G (Telecom's new network), some do 900MHz (Vodafone's new network). None do both. If you are importing a hdnset from the USA you will probably struggle to find any that do 900MHz 3G as no networks exist in the USA.

Be aware that most carriers have customised firmware on their phones which means that services such as Vodafone Live! may not work properly and you may not be able to access some features of the phone as they may be locked down.

You also need to factor in the current NZ$ which can mean that many handsets are virtually the same price here in NZ and will also come with a warranty, something you more than likely won't have buying a handset overseas.

And before you think I'm trying to put you off I'm not - I've purchased quite a few handsets overseas. You just need to be aware of the pros and cons of doing so.

nate

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#201476 16-Mar-2009 19:24

sbiddle: And before you think I'm trying to put you off I'm not - I've purchased quite a few handsets overseas. You just need to be aware of the pros and cons of doing so.

Me, on the other hand, the last (and only) time I purchased a phone from overseas, it was very frustrating and cost me a lot of money by the time I onsold it to someone else as I never got it going here.

Unless you really know what you're doing (like our resident uber geek steveo here

) I'd stick with purchasing from a retailer here.

chrislaing

41 posts

Geek
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#201481 16-Mar-2009 19:44

Awesome, thanks guys. I really appreciate the advice! :)

Chris

Pradip

33 posts

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#201487 16-Mar-2009 20:40

I really only have a few words to say

Buy NZ New!!

Mobile Phone Unlocking Specialist - http://www.unlock.net.nz