Wondering, Can you watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand? You cannot watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand because the streaming service is unavailable for people in New Zealand. To enjoy it, you must switch your location from NZ to the United Kingdom with a premium VPN service like ExpressVPN.
BBC iPlayer is home to some of the best British titles, like Rugby League Challenge Cup Semi-Final 1 and Home Sweet Rome, and many more. There are also several events coming live on BBC iPlayer, such as The Night Manager, Bellator, and Formula 1. Read our guide till the end, and learn easy steps to watch your favorite shows and movies on BBC iPlayer in New Zealand.
There are no plans to extend BBC iPlayer coverage to New Zealand. But where can I watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand? You’ll need a reliable BBC iPlayer VPN like ExpressVPN with optimized servers in the UK to watch BBC iPlayer. Let’s quickly learn how to watch BBC Live in New Zealand with the best VPNs for streaming BBC iPlayer.So you can enjoy streaming one of the biggest sports events of the year FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 and Ryder Cup 2023 seamlessly live on BBC iPlayer.
Continue reading this article as we provide you with a detailed guide on ways to watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand.
BBC iPlayer NZ: How To Watch it Easily in 2023 [Quick Steps]
BBC iPlayer doesn’t work in New Zealand, but here’s how to watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand with a VPN:
- Get a VPN with fast and stable servers in the UK. We recommend using ExpressVPN.
- Install the VPN on your device and log in with your username and password.
- Connect to a server in the United Kingdom.
- Go to the BBC iPlayer website or the BBC iPlayer app and sign in.
- Watch BBC shows, movies, etc., in New Zealand in any country.
You’ll still need a VPN to subscribe to BBC iPlayer in New Zealand. Already have an account? Here’s how to download and watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand on various devices.
How To Watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand? [Video Tutorial]
It’s impossible to watch BBC iPlayer in NZ without VPN. We’ve included a well-detailed video showing you how to watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand with our recommended VPN, ExpressVPN.
Do not fret over getting a BBC iPlayer in New Zealand free trial, because the service is completely free!
What are the Best VPNs for Streaming BBC iPlayer in New Zealand [Quick Overview]
It’s not easy to bypass BBC iPlayer’s geo-restrictions, so you need to test a few premium VPNs to find one that works best. If you are wondering which VPN is the best for BBC iPlayer, luckily, we know everything about VPNs, and here are our top picks:
ExpressVPN | Surfshark | NordVPN | |
Website | https://www.expressvpn.com | https://surfshark.com | https://nordvpn.com |
Streaming Services |
|
|
|
Apps | Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android | iOS, Android, Linux, macOS, Windows | macOS, Windows, Android, Linux, iOS |
Simultaneous Connections | 5 | Unlimited | 6 |
Speed on 100Mbps Network | 92.26Mbps download speed and 89.45Mbps upload speed | 88.48Mbps download speed and 79.42Mbps upload speed | 93.42Mbps download speed and 87.68Mbps upload speed |
Best Price | NZD 10.95 /mo (US$ 6.67 /mo ) (Black Friday Deal: Grab 3 Free Months + 49% OFF 12-Month Plan) | NZD 3.27 /mo (US$ 1.99 /mo ) (Save 86% on a 24-month subscription) | NZD 9.02 /mo (US$ 5.49 /mo ) (Avail 65% off & get 3 months free on a 2 year subscription) |
Learn more about these three VPNs in our in-depth analysis section.
Why Do You Need A VPN To Watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand?
Can you access BBC iPlayer in New Zeland without VPN? No, you cannot watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand unless you subscribe to a premium VPN service like ExpressVPN, as there’s no BBC iPlayer in NZ because of the geo-blocks.
Due to copyright issues, BBC iPlayer is limited to people in the United Kingdom. If you try to access the service in New Zealand, you will get the following error message:
“BBC iPlayer only works in the UK. Sorry, it’s due to rights issues.”

BBC iPlayer Geo Restriction Error!
This message comes up because your New Zealand IP address is blocked from accessing the BBC iPlayer library.
There are several methods of changing your IP address to a UK one to stream BBC iPlayer, but a VPN offers the best solution. A VPN changes your location and secures your connection so no one can track your online activities.
Thus, the answer to how to watch BBC in NZ is a VPN. BBC iPlayer is a region-restricted website only available in the United Kingdom.
Luckily, you can stream BBC iPlayer in in New Zealand free with a premium VPN such as ExpressVPN.
What are the Top 3 VPNs for BBC iPlayer NZ in 2023 [In-Depth Analysis]
As we’ve seen, you cannot access BBC iPlayer in New Zealand without VPN, and after an extensive streaming exercise, the following are our three best VPNs:
Moreover, if you are considering using a free VPN and wondering, What is the best free VPN for BBC iPlayer? We do not recommend using one! It’s because a free VPN will only compromise your online privacy and anonymity!
1. ExpressVPN – Best VPN for BBC iPlayer NZ
- Buffer-free streaming with zero disconnections
- 3000+ servers in 105 countries
- MediaStreamer feature
- Five simultaneous connections
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Get ExpressVPN if you’re looking for a VPN that never fails to unblock BBC iPlayer while offering fast connections and no server disconnections. It’s our recommended VPN for streaming BBC iPlayer in NZ through its five optimized UK servers. Overall, ExpressVPN has 3000+ servers in 105 countries.

Use East London server and unblock BBC iPlayer instantly!
ExpressVPN doesn’t have the most servers for streaming BBC iPlayer, but the five available options are enough to surpass your streaming needs. The servers can handle many users without any effect on the streaming experience. We connected to the East London server during testing and streamed The Tourist and Four Lives without delay.
No other VPN can match ExpressVPN on unblocking capabilities as it easily bypasses iPlayer’s geo-restrictions in Mexico, Brazil, Venezuela, etc. It has the MediaStreamer feature, which makes it the best VPN to get BBC iPlayer in NZ on older devices like iPad 3.
The VPN offers lightning-quick connectivity supported by a network built for speed utilizing next-gen technology. ExpressVPN delivers 92.26Mbps download speed and 89.45Mbps upload speed on a 100Mbps network.

ExpressVPN offers fast connection speeds on our 100 Mbps connection speed.
ExpressVPN offers advanced security features like running its Private DNS on every server to make your connections faster and safer. It also provides the best-in-class encryption with the AES-256 standard and Lightway Protocol.
ExpressVPN has easy-to-use apps for Linux, Mac, Android, Windows, and iOS devices, smart TVs, and gaming consoles. It supports five simultaneous connections, but you can install it on a router to cover all your devices.
Get ExpressVPN for NZD 10.95 /mo (US$ 6.67 /mo ) (Black Friday Deal: Grab 3 Free Months + 49% OFF 12-Month Plan) with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Recommended Servers:
- London
- East London
- Wembley
2. Surfshark – Affordable VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer NZ
- 3200+ servers in 100 countries
- Affordable rates of NZD 3.27 /mo (US$ 1.99 /mo ) (Save 86% on a 24-month subscription)
- Unlimited simultaneous connections
- Decent connection speeds
Surfshark is an affordable VPN to unblock BBC iPlayer in New Zealand, as you can get it for NZD 3.27 /mo (US$ 1.99 /mo ) (Save 86% on a 24-month subscription) with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Use the London server and unblock BBC iPlayer instantly!
This VPN proves you don’t have to spend much money to access geo-restricted websites. Surfshark has 3200+ servers in 100 countries, with 360 in the United Kingdom.
We connected to a server in Manchester that unblocked BBC iPlayer immediately, allowing us to stream Lionel Messi: Destiny and access BBC Cardiff Singer of the World Competition.
Surfshark’s unblocking capability is on par with the pricier VPNs and unblocks BBC iPlayer in Japan and Mexico. It has a Smart DNS feature that allows you to unblock these and more streaming services on devices without a VPN app.
The VPN isn’t the fastest on our 100Mbps network, but it still delivers fast speeds for an uninterrupted BBC streaming experience. Surfshark records 88.48Mbps download speed and 79.42Mbps upload speed.

Surfshark’s speed test results on our 100 Mbps connection speed.
Surfshark offers unlimited simultaneous connections on a single account, meaning you can install it on all your devices without a VPN. The VPN has Mac, iOS, Windows, Android, and Linux operating systems. The Smart DNS feature allows access to BBC iPlayer on Apple TV, Xbox, PlayStation, Roku, etc.
Onn security, Surfshark secures your data with industry-leading AES-256-GCM encryption and the secure IKEv2/IPsec protocol.
Recommended Servers:
- London
- Manchester
- Glasgow
3. NordVPN – Largest Server VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer NZ
- Delivers the fastest connections speeds for streaming BBC iPlayer
- Six simultaneous connections
- 5500+ servers in 60 countries
- NordLynx protocol
- Strict no-logs policy
NordVPN offers over 90 Mbps speeds to stream BBC iPlayer in New Zealand without buffering, making NordVPN the fastest VPN for BBC iPlayer. The VPN records 93.42 Mbps download speed and 87.68 Mbps upload speed, the fastest speeds from our tests.

Use the MAnchester server and unblock BBC iPlayer instantly!
NordVPN speed test results on our 100 Mbps connection impressed us the most. We recorded the following speeds:

NordVPN’s connection speeds are the fastest!
NordVPN has the most servers for streaming BBC iPlayer in NZ, with 440+ in the United Kingdom. These servers are powered by the NordLynx protocol for high connection speeds.
NordVPN has 5500+ servers in 60 countries worldwide to meet your streaming needs.
BBC iPlayer with NordVPN is a great option because we got fast speeds, and the video doesn’t lag. The NordVPN London servers give us the best connection, and we had no problems streaming Mum or Once Upon a Time in Northern Ireland.
NordVPN is a highly-compatible VPN and works on your favorite streaming device. The VPN supports Windows, Linux, iOS, macOS, and Android operating systems.
It has the SmartPlay feature, its version of Smart DNS to work on other devices like gaming consoles (PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch), Raspberry Pi, Roku, etc.
Also, you can connect six devices simultaneously on a single account. You can watch BBC iPlayer in Switzerland, BBC iPlayer in Spain, or the Netherlands on different devices at the same time without any major drop in connection speed.
NordVPN is a security-conscious VPN that secures your connection with a Kill Switch if the connection to the VPN server drops. You also get obfuscated servers to add an extra layer of security to your connection and 256-bit encryption at a price of NZD 9.02 /mo (US$ 5.49 /mo ) (Avail 65% off & get 3 months free on a 2 year subscription).
Recommended Servers:
- Manchester
- London
- Edinburgh
How to Choose the Best VPN for Watching BBC iPlayer in New Zealand?
So how do I bypass BBC iPlayer location? A VPN is the best app for bypassing BBC iPlayer’s location. But, with so many VPN providers claiming to be the best, it can take time to decide which one to get.
To help you choose the best VPNs for watching BBC iPlayer in NZ, we’ve listed the main factors to consider while selecting a premium VPN, such as ExpressVPN to unblock BBC iPlayer NZ:
- Reliable Server Network: A VPN with a good server network, including reliable servers in the UK, should be considered. We’ve selected VPNs that have reliable servers in the UK.
- Faster Network Connections: Most VPN providers, especially free ones, have outdated protocols and take time while connect to their servers. High-speed VPN must be used with modern protocols.
- Features and Security: Ideally, a VPN with an advanced encryption protocol must be used that ensure maximum online anonymity and security. A VPN should’ve features like AES 256-bit encryption protocols, DNS leak protection, and straightforward privacy policies.
- Doesn’t keep Logs: A VPN that ensures your browsing history is private and doesn’t keep any logs should be selected.
- Supported Apps for Different Streaming Devices: A VPN with compatible apps on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android should be selected so you can watch BBC iPlayer on all your favorite streaming devices without any hassle.
- 24/7 Chat Support: We’ve checked that the VPNs have good customer support ratings so that you can get your issues resolved in no time and ensure trouble-free streaming.
How to Subscribe to BBC iPlayer in New Zealand? [Easy Steps]
The BBC iPlayer is a free streaming platform for live and catch-up TV titles from all of BBC’s Channels. The channels include BBC One, BBC Two, BBC Three, BBC Four, BBC News, cBBC, and Radio 1. Here’s how to subscribe to BBC iPlayer in New Zealand:
- Sign up for a BBC iPlayer VPN like ExpressVPN.
- Log in and connect to a server in the UK. Choose the East-London server.
- Go to the BBC iPlayer website and select the “Sign In” option.

Head to BBC iPlayer website and click Sign In.
- A new page will appear; click the “Register Now” option.

Register for a BBC iPlayer account.
- Provide the required personal information and use this postal code, E1 OAA, for East London.

Enter the required information to register for a BBC iPlayer account.
- Enter all your details and finish by clicking the “Register” button. Verify the account by clicking the link sent to your email, and you’re done.
Pro Tip: You don’t need a TV license when streaming BBC iPlayer with ExpressVPN but click “Yes” if a notification asks if you have one.
What Devices Are Compatible With BBC iPlayer in New Zealand?
Wondering on which devices can I watch BBC iPlayer? You can watch BBC iPlayer New Zealand free with ExpressVPN on various devices as follows:
- PS5, PS4, PS3
- Windows
- Different Smart TV brands
- Mac
- Chromecast
- iOS (iPad, iPhone, iPod 6)
- Xbox 360 and Xbox One
- Android devices (smart TV, Tablet, Phone)
- Firestick
- Apple TV
- Roku
How to Download and Watch BBC iPlayer NZ on Devices?
After connecting to a UK server, you can stream BBC iPlayer from the app or directly from the website. Here’s how to download the BBC iPlayer app in New Zealand in any country on various devices:
How do I download BBC iPlayer NZ on iOS?
How to get BBC iPlayer New Zealand? Here’s how to download BBC iPlayer app on an iOS device in NZ:
- Launch the ExpressVPN app and connect to a server in the UK (preferably East London).
- Go to Settings of your iOS device and click on your profile.
- Select Media and Purchases > Country/Region > and change to the UK, and Agree to the Terms and Conditions.
- Enter the requested information and provide any valid UK address.
- Go to App Store to download the BBC iPlayer app.
- Log in and enjoy your BBC iPlayer iPhone experience in NZ.
How can I watch BBC iPlayer NZ on my Android?
Planning to watch BBC iPlayer in in New Zealand live on Android? Follow the easy steps below:
- Sign in to Google Play Store on an Android device with two or more Gmail accounts.
- Launch ExpressVPN and connect to a UK server (preferably East London).
- Go to Play Store and search for the BBC iPlayer app. You’ll notice the app won’t show up, so switch to a different account without closing Play Store.
- Search for the BBC iPlayer Android app again. Download and install it.
- Log in and start streaming.
How do I download BBC iPlayer NZ on Computer or Laptop?
You don’t have to install the BBC iPlayer app in in New Zealand on a Windows or Mac laptop or computer. Log in to the site via a browser as follows:
- Fire up ExpressVPN and connect to a UK server (preferably East London).
- Go to bbc.co.uk.
- Log in with your username and password.
- Search for your favorite show, film, or New Zealand documentary BBC iPlayer and start streaming.
How do I watch BBC iPlayer NZ on Roku?
BBC iPlayer is present on the Roku Channel Store, but you can only access it with a British-origin account. Here’s how to install BBC iPlayer in in New Zealand on Roku and enjoy BBC on demand NZ:
- Reset your Roku device.
- Install ExpressVPN on your Wi-Fi router and connect to a UK server (preferably East London).
- Connect your Roku device to your smart TV and sign up for a UK account.
- Go to the Roku Channel Store to get the BBC iPlayer Roku app.
- Launch the app, sign in and enjoy your BBC iPlayer Roku streaming experience in NZ.
How do I download BBC iPlayer NZ on Firestick?
Wondering, Is BBC iPlayer available on Firestick? Yes, it is! Here are the steps to watch BBC iPlayer on Firestick in New Zealand :
- Go to the Developer Options under Firestick Settings to allow installation from unknown sources.
- Install the Downloader app on your Firestick.
- Launch the app and use it to install the ExpressVPN app.
- Open ExpressVPN and connect to a server in the UK (preferably East London).
- Restart the Amazon Fire Stick to apply the changes.
- Install the BBC iPlayer app, sign in and stream BBC iPlayer in New Zealand on Firestick.
How to Get BBC iPlayer NZ on Apple TV?
Wondering, how does Apple TV work NZ on BBC iPlayer? here are the steps to follow:
- Connect the Apple TV device to your TV.
- Go to Settings, General, then Region.
- Switch to the UK and provide the requested information.
- After changing locations, go to the App Store and download the BBC iPlayer app.
- Install the app.
- Set up ExpressVPN to your home router and connect to a UK server (preferably East London).
- Sign in to BBC iPlayer on Apple TV and stream your favorites.
How to Get BBC iPlayer NZ on Smart TV?
BBC iPlayer works on a smart TV, and here’s how to download the app in NZ:
- Change your smart TV region to the United Kingdom.
- Configure ExpressVPN to your router on the same Wi-Fi.
- Get the BBC iPlayer app.
- Fire up the BBC iPlayer app and add it you’re your favourite channels list.
- Launch it and log in.
- Stream your BBC iPlayer favourites in NZ on a smart TV
What to Watch on BBC iPlayer in New Zealand in 2023?
BBC iPlayer has a lot of titles on the platform with plenty to watch as follows:
Top Shows to Watch on BBC iPlayer in New Zealand
How can I watch BBC iPlayer shows in New Zealand? You can watch BBC shows in New Zealand with ExpressVPN. Here are some of the top shows on the platform:
Top Movies to Watch on BBC iPlayer New Zealand
You’ll have plenty of options on BBC iPlayer if you like streaming movies, and here are some great ones:
The Omen | The Snail and the Whale |
The Exorcist | Deborah James |
Poltergeist | Superworm |
Purple Rain | King of Thieves |
Kung Fu Panda 3 | Madonna: Truth or Dare |
Best Live Sports available to Stream on BBC iPlayer in New Zealand
Here are some of the Live Sports events to stream on the BBC iPlayer in New Zealand with ExpressVPN:
Rowing World Championships | Cycling World Championship |
FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 | Tennis: Surbiton Trophy |
Ryder Cup 2023 | World Athletics Championships |
What Channels are available to Stream on BBC iPlayer in New Zealand?
Here are the channels available on BBC iPlayer to stream in NZ:
BBC One |
BBC Two |
British tv |
BBC Three |
Alba |
S4C |
BBC News |
Scotland |
BBC Parliament |
BBC Four |
CBeebies |
Radio 1 |
What’s New on BBC iPlayer in November 2023?
Here’s what’s new on BBC iPlayer in November 2023:
How to Fix BBC iPlayer Not Working in New Zealand With A VPN?
BBC iPlayer works in NZ with a VPN, but you might experience some issues while streaming. Try these fixes to get rid of all “BBC iPlayer not working” errors:
- BBC iPlayer has blacklisted the servers used by your VPN provider – switch to ExpressVPN to get the best unblocking capability.
- BBC iPlayer identifying your location – clear your browser cookies to eliminate any information showing your location.
- Your GPS location and IP address don’t match – use a VPN with secure protocols and enhanced encryption.
- BBC iPlayer has updated its geo-blocking system – switch to a regularly updated VPN provider.
- The IP address is leaking – sign up for a VPN that covers the entire traffic of your device.
If the above steps don’t work for you, then you can check our in-depth guide about various methods to fix BBC iPlayer not working issues in New Zealand.
Can I Use a Free VPN to Stream BBC iPlayer in New Zealand?
So, Can you watch BBC iPlayer with free VPN? Yes, you can use a free VPN to stream BBC iPlayer in New Zealand, but we are totally against them because they are unsafe and slow.
Many VPNs offer access to watching BBC iPlayer in New Zealand free, but they offer a poor streaming experience. Streaming requires much bandwidth, and the free VPN servers are filled to the brim, leading to excruciating slow connections.
Free VPNs aren’t safe as they make money off their users by tracking, recording, and selling their online data. If price is a concern, you can simply leverage the 30-day money-back guarantee that comes with ExpressVPN!
FAQs:
Is BBC iPlayer free to stream in New Zealand?
Can I use BBC iPlayer in New Zealand?
Is it legal to stream BBC iPlayer with a VPN in New Zealand?
Can I watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand free without VPN?
I just pressed yes on BBC iPlayer in New Zealand when it asked if I have a license. Is there a problem with it?
Can I play BBC iPlayer downloaded content in New Zealand?
How to watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand on a non-Smart TV?
Wrapping It Up!
Sadly, you cannot watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand because it’s only available in Britain. BBC iPlayer is an incredible streaming service and is a favorite for many UK residents, but it is geo-restricted.
Also, the best part about this service is you can easily delete the BBC iPlayer account anytime and anywhere.
However, you can switch your location with a VPN to stream BBC iPlayer shows like Rillington Place, The Woman in the Wall, etc.
So, you now know how to watch BBC in NZ. Subscribe to ExpressVPN, our recommended VPN, for the best BBC iPlayer streaming experience in New Zealand in any country.