How to Watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand in 2024

BBC iPlayer provides an expansive collection of engaging content covering various genres and interests, from dramas to comedies and reality TV to news. Unfortunately, BBC iPlayer is only streaming in the UK. So, if you live in New Zealand, you can’t watch iPlayer content at all. Or, if you travel to NZ from the UK, you won’t be able to access your iPlayer account.

That said, you can download content before you leave the UK to watch anywhere for a limited time. If that’s not an option, there is a workaround to all these issues. You can unblock BBC iPlayer in NZ with a VPN. All you have to do is to connect to a UK server and the streaming platform will think you’re in the UK. 

In this article, we’ll show you how to watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand, why you need a VPN for this, and how to choose the right one. We’ll also offer step-by-step guides for how to get iPlayer on your devices, recommendations of what to watch, and answers to some FAQs. 

How to Watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand

To watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand, you have to subscribe to a VPN and connect to a UK server. Then, access BBC iPlayer and create a free account. Here are the steps: 

1. Get a subscription for a VPN that unblocks BBC iPlayer in NZ (we recommend NordVPN). 
2. Download and install the VPN on your device. 
3. Connect to a UK VPN server in any city.
4. Go to the BBC iPlayer website and click “Sign In” at the top-left of the page. 

5. Click on “Register now” to create an account. 

6. Choose your age range (“Under 16” restricts some content). 

7. Add your birth date and click “Continue.” 

8. Fill in your account details (you can find UK postcodes online to use) and click “Register.” 

9. Press "Play" on any show or movie, and then click on “I have a TV Licence. Watch now.”  

10. Select your Parental Guidance Lock preferences.



11. Now you can watch BBC iPlayer in NZ, so start streaming your favorite content!

You can stream BBC iPlayer for free in New Zealand because there's no subscription required. All you have to do is create an iPlayer account and get a VPN to unblock the streaming service. Then you can play whatever BBC content you want from NZ.

Why Do You Need a VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand?

You need a VPN to watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand because the streaming service is exclusive to the UK. Since it has to comply with strict distribution agreements around the world, iPlayer enforces geo-restrictions so you can’t access it just from everywhere. 

Accessing BBC iPlayer’s website is possible no matter where you’re located, but once you click on any title to watch BBC iPlayer in NZ, you’ll receive this error message: “BBC iPlayer only works in the UK. Sorry, it’s due to rights issues. In the UK? Here's some advice.”

This happens because streaming platforms can see your IP address when browsing the Internet. But, with a VPN, you can bypass these restrictions and access BBC iPlayer outside the UK. Once you connect to a VPN server and get a UK IP address, iPlayer will think you’re in the United Kingdom, and you’ll automatically unblock your favorite shows. 

But keep in mind that not just any VPN can do this job. You’ll need the best BBC iPlayer VPN to access the streaming platform because it detects and blocks many VPN IPs. We recommend NordVPN because it unblocks BBC iPlayer consistently, has hundreds of UK servers, and supports 4K streaming. 

The Best VPNs to Watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand in 2024

When you’re trying to find the best VPN, you’ll want to make sure it can unblock BBC iPlayer consistently. For this, it needs to have an extensive UK server network. It should also have a large worldwide server network so that you can access other streaming platforms. 

In addition, the VPN should provide amazing performance and fast speeds so you have a smooth streaming experience. Security-wise, premium VPNs offer features like obfuscation to disguise your VPN use and a kill switch to protect you from IP leaks. They also come with a strict no-logs policy, strong encryption (AES-256), and robust protocols (WireGuard and OpenVPN, for example). 

The provider should also offer compatible VPN apps for most devices like computers, mobiles, and smart TVs. Plus, it needs to allow multiple simultaneous connections for streaming on multiple screens. Finally, a 30-day money-back guarantee lets you try it risk-free, and 24/7 live chat support is necessary for troubleshooting.

Based on the criteria mentioned above, here are the 4 best VPNs for streaming BBC iPlayer in New Zealand: 

1. NordVPN - Our #1-Rated VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand in 2024
2. Surfshark - Stream BBC iPlayer in NZ with Unlimited Simultaneous Connections
3. ExpressVPN - High-Speed VPN to Get BBC iPlayer in New Zealand 
4. CyberGhost VPN - Budget-Friendly VPN for Unblocking BBC iPlayer

1. NordVPN - Our #1-Rated VPN to Watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand in 2024

NordVPN is the best VPN for streaming BBC iPlayer in New Zealand because it unblocks BBC iPlayer consistently, along with other streaming platforms. The VPN has 6,000+ servers in 67 countries around the world, including 440+ servers in 4 UK cities. Once you subscribe, you get access to UK locations like London, Manchester, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. 

Additionally, NordVPN has super-fast speeds and reliable performance, making streaming a very pleasant experience. This was consistent no matter how far away our server was from us. We were able to stream in 4K on various international services and never experienced any annoying buffering.

Security-wise, NordVPN has an audited no-logs policy, strong protocols (OpenVPN, NordLynx, and IKEv2/IPsec), and military-grade encryption (AES-256 and ChaCha20). It also comes with a customizable kill switch and a reliable ad-blocker. Many servers have obfuscation as well, so we could always use it to bypass BBC iPlayer’s blocks.

NordVPN works on systems like iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux. It can be installed on many smart TVs and streaming devices, too. The apps have an intuitive design, and it lets you connect 6 devices at the same time. So, it's enough for BBC iPlayer’s 5-screen limit. 

All NordVPN plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Plus, knowledgeable reps are available 24/7 on live chat for any questions you might have. 

2. Surfshark - Stream BBC iPlayer in NZ with Unlimited Simultaneous Connections

Surfshark is an excellent choice if you're looking to stream BBC iPlayer in NZ because it unblocks iPlayer from anywhere. It comes with 212 UK servers in 4 cities: London, Manchester, Glasgow, and Edinburgh. On top of that, it works with any other streaming services you might want to watch thanks to its 3,200+ servers in 100 countries.

You'll never have to worry about buffering or waiting for videos to load because Surfshark is capable of blazing speeds and consistent performance. It didn't matter whether we connected to nearby or more remote servers, because we always enjoyed the same quality of streaming support. Skipping through 4K videos was a breeze.

Surfshark takes your privacy very seriously, which is why it offers a reliable kill switch and follows a strict no-logs policy. Plus, your VPN usage will be hidden thanks to its network-wide obfuscation called Camouflage Mode. It comes with AES-256-enabled OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols, as well as WireGuard paired with ChaCha20 encryption.

This VPN can be installed on any popular devices and operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, Linux, smart TVs, routers, and more. Best of all, it allows unlimited simultaneous connections for protecting all your screens and other devices.

Surfshark backs its plans by a 30-day refund period, so you can take your time testing it. Lastly, customer support is available around the clock if you need any help.

3. ExpressVPN - High-Speed VPN to Get BBC iPlayer in New Zealand

ExpressVPN excels in unblocking BBC iPlayer and other streaming services in New Zealand. It has a large server network of over 3,000 servers in 105 countries, including server coverage in 5 UK locations: Docklands, London, Wembley, Midlands, and East London. 

The VPN comes with impressive speed and stable performance. In our tests, we were always able to stream HD and 4K videos without any quality drops. What’s more, there was no buffering when we skipped through the videos. This means you'll be able to easily watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand on the highest quality settings.

When it comes to security, ExpressVPN has a built-in kill switch, strong AES-256 encryption, and an audited no-logs policy. For enhanced protection, it supports secure protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2, and Lightway. The latter is an excellent option for streaming. Plus, all servers are obfuscated, so streaming services won’t see you’re using a VPN.

ExpressVPN is compatible with every popular operating system, so you can easily use it on devices running Windows, Android, macOS, iOS, or Linux. What’s more, it has a router app, so you can use it with devices that don’t support VPNs natively (like game consoles or smart TVs). 

Finally, ExpressVPN allows 8 simultaneous connections. It also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee and 24/7 live chat support. 

4. CyberGhost VPN - Budget-Friendly VPN for Unblocking BBC iPlayer

CyberGhost VPN made our list for a number of good reasons - namely, it easily unblocks BBC iPlayer in New Zealand, plus plenty of other streamers. Moreover, it has 11,500+ servers in 100 countries with 1,130+ UK servers in 3 cities (London, Manchester, and Berkshire). 

One downside, though, is CyberGhost lacks obfuscation. However, we were still able to access services that block VPN traffic, like iPlayer, Netflix, and Hulu. While it provides medium-fast streaming speeds on nearby servers, some distant servers are a bit slower. There might be some delays in loading videos, depending on the service and server combo.

CyberGhost, fortunately, has top-notch security features. For instance, it has an always-on kill switch to prevent IP leaks in case the VPN connection drops. In addition, it offers bank-grade AES-256 encryption, an audited no-logs policy that has been proven true, and strong protocols like OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, and WireGuard.  

The provider has beginner-friendly, easy-to-install apps for almost any device. This includes computers, tablets, smartphones, smart TVs, and more. Plus, you can use the VPN on 7 devices at the same time, so it’s very convenient.  

CyberGhost offers budget-friendly plans, and the longer ones come with a generous 45-day money-back period. You'll also have peace of mind knowing there's 24/7 support via live chat for troubleshooting. 

How to Get BBC iPlayer in NZ on Your Devices?

Depending on the device you want to watch BBC iPlayer on, there are different ways to get BBC iPlayer in NZ. In general, all you have to do is get a reliable VPN and you’ll be able to automatically watch your favorite titles. To make this easier, we made a few step-by-step guides.

How to Get BBC iPlayer on Windows or Mac

To enjoy BBC iPlayer on your Windows or macOS device, you can utilize a VPN and access the BBC iPlayer website. Here's a simple guide:

1. Obtain a VPN with UK servers (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN client on your computer.
3. Connect to any UK server provided by the VPN.
4. Visit the BBC iPlayer website and log in to your account.
5. Start streaming your preferred shows.

How to Get BBC iPlayer on Android

Getting the BBC iPlayer app on your Android device is straightforward and doesn't require downloading the app from Google Play Store. Here's how: 

1. Subscribe to a VPN that unlocks BBC iPlayer (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN client on your Android device.
3. Connect to a UK server offered by the VPN.
4. Obtain the BBC iPlayer's APK file from a trusted source like APKMirror.
5. Install the BBC iPlayer app manually by tapping on the downloaded file.
6. Launch BBC iPlayer, log in, and start streaming.

How to Get BBC iPlayer on iOS

While iOS devices have certain limitations, you can still access the BBC iPlayer app with the help of a VPN. Here's what you need to do:

1. Get a VPN compatible with iOS devices (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN client from the App Store.
3. Connect to a UK server provided by the VPN.
4. Visit the BBC iPlayer website and log in to your account.
5. Choose your preferred content and start streaming.

If you’d rather download the BBC iPlayer app directly from the App Store, you'll need to create a new Apple ID with a UK address. Here are the exact steps:

1. Download a VPN with a dedicated iOS app (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Install the VPN from the App Store and launch it.
3. Connect to a UK server.
4. Create a new Apple ID with a UK-based address and log in to your device with it.
5. Log in to your BBC iPlayer account and start streaming your favorite content.

How to Get BBC iPlayer on a Smart TV

Since many smart TVs don't natively support VPN apps, you'll need to install the VPN on your router instead. Here's how:

1. Subscribe to a VPN compatible with routers (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Set up the VPN on your router and select a UK server during configuration.
3. Connect your TV to the VPN-enabled Wi-Fi.
4. Adjust your TV's settings to set the region to the UK.
5. Visit your TV's App Store and download the BBC iPlayer app.
6. Launch BBC iPlayer on your smart TV, log in, and start watching your preferred shows.

How to Get BBC iPlayer on Apple TV

To watch BBC iPlayer on Apple TV, you'll need a VPN and a UK-based Apple account. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Choose a reliable VPN for Apple TV (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Install the VPN app and connect to a UK server.
3. Create a new Apple ID with a UK address.
4. Log in to your Apple TV with your new Apple ID.
5. Visit the tvOS App Store and download BBC iPlayer.
6. Launch BBC iPlayer, sign in, and start streaming.

How to Get BBC iPlayer on Xbox

Just like many smart TVs, Xbox doesn’t natively support VPNs, so you’ll need to install it on a router. Here’s what the process entails: 

1. Get a VPN compatible with routers (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Install the VPN on your router and configure a UK server during installation.
3. Adjust your Xbox settings and change the region to the United Kingdom.
4. Go to your Microsoft Store and download the BBC iPlayer app.
5. Launch the BBC iPlayer app, sign in, and start watching your preferred shows.

What to Watch on BBC iPlayer in New Zealand?

Unblocking BBC iPlayer with a VPN opens doors to a diverse array of captivating content in New Zealand. Whether you're drawn to gripping drama series, blockbuster movies, engaging comedy shows, addicting reality TV, or thrilling sports events, BBC iPlayer offers an extensive selection.

You can enjoy acclaimed movies such as Lady Bird and Green Book, along with excellent shows like Peaky Blinders or Planet Earth III. Additionally, you can dive into sports events like Formula 1 races and Premier League matches. You can also stream live channels like BBC Radio 1 and BBC Parliament.

Here are more titles to add to your watch list: 

BBC iPlayer Movies	BBC iPlayer Series	BBC iPlayer Reality Shows	BBC iPlayer Sports	BBC iPlayer Channels
Halloween (1978)	The Woman in the Wall (2024)	Glow Up (2019-Present)	Masters Snooker	BBC News
Boy Erased (2018)	Doctor Who (2005-Present)	Rookie Nurses (2023)	The FA Cup	BBC One
Coco (2017)	Our Flag Means Death (2022-2023)	Brickies (2022-Present)	Africa Cup of Nations	BBC Two
Aftersun (2022)	The Gold (2023-Present)	RuPaul's Drag Race UK vs the World (2022-Present)	Women’s Super League	BBC Three
Fiddler on the Roof (1971)	Death in Paradise (2011-Present)	Strictly Come Dancing (2004-Present)	Irish League Football	BBC Four
Selma (2014)	The Way (2024-Present)	The Graham Norton Show (2007-Present)	World Boxing Cup	BBC Scotland, BBC Alba, S4C
Sicario (2015)	Kin (2021-Present)	The Traitors UK (2022-Present)	MLB	CBeebies, CBBC

Can You Use a Free VPN for Streaming BBC iPlayer in New Zealand?

Yes, you can use a free VPN for streaming BBC iPlayer in New Zealand, but we strongly advise against it. Free VPN providers often lack essential privacy and security features, leaving your data vulnerable to potential breaches or exploitation. Plus, they generally can’t unblock streaming services, which will make it difficult to watch BBC iPlayer in NZ with one.

Moreover, many free VPNs have been caught collecting and selling user data to third parties. Another significant drawback is their slow speeds and small server networks. They may also impose data caps or throttle your connection speeds, further inhibiting your streaming experience. 

We recommend exploring a free VPN trial as a more reliable alternative. For a trusted VPN provider with a proven track record of unblocking geo-restricted content and safeguarding user privacy, we recommend the NordVPN free trial. It is available on Android for 7 days, or you can take advantage of their 30-day money-back guarantee to test other devices. 

Premium VPN trials offer access to the best VPN providers without the long-term commitment, allowing you to evaluate their performance, features, and compatibility with BBC iPlayer before making a decision. So, after your trial is up, you can decide to get a subscription if things work out.

Final Thoughts

BBC iPlayer offers tons of hit movies, exciting live sports, and widely acclaimed TV shows, among other popular content. However, due to geographic restrictions, BBC iPlayer is accessible only within the UK. Nonetheless, there's good news: you can bypass these restrictions and get BBC iPlayer in NZ by using a VPN.

We recommend NordVPN as the best VPN to watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand. It boasts a plethora of servers in the UK, consistently manages to circumvent iPlayer's restrictions, and is compatible with virtually any device you might own. Additionally, its super-fast connection speeds ensure that you can enjoy 4K streaming without any interruptions due to buffering.

That's all for our guide on how to watch BBC iPlayer in New Zealand. If you have any questions, let us know via the comments section below. Thanks for reading!