How to Watch Paramount Plus in New Zealand in 2024

Paramount+ features all the content found on the prior CBS All Access platform, with channels like the Smithsonian, Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, CBS, BET, MTV, and Paramount Classics. It’s available in 25+ countries - but New Zealand is not one of them, due to an exclusivity partnership between Paramount and Sky. This means there are limited Paramount+ titles offered through certain Sky and Neon plans.

That said, if you have a Paramount Plus account, you won't be able to use it while traveling in NZ. The only way to watch Paramount Plus in New Zealand is by using a VPN to sign up for the standalone service. Moreover, its content is different in every country, and the full library is only available in the US. So, use a VPN to get a US IP address and unblock the complete version of the streamer.

In this article, we’ll show you how to access Paramount+ in NZ with a VPN and which providers work best, as well as explain why you need a VPN. We also include prices for the platform, step-by-step instructions for alternative Paramount Plus payment methods, and recommendations of some shows and movies to watch. Lastly, we’ll offer guides for watching Paramount+ on any device and answer some FAQs.

How to Watch Paramount Plus in New Zealand

You need an American IP address to sign up for the US-based service and stream Paramount Plus in New Zealand. You can obtain a US IP with a premium VPN (note that you still need a valid US payment method to subscribe, though). More details below:

1. Sign up for a working Paramount+ VPN (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN on your device(s). 
3. Connect to a US VPN server.
4. Go to the Paramount Plus website and click “Try it free.”

5. Select a subscription plan.

6. Add your account information (use 75254 or 75260 for the ZIP code).

7. Add a payment method (valid PayPal or US debit/credit card needed).

8. Finish signing up, select a title, and start watching.

To get US Paramount+ in NZ, you have to use a payment method with a valid US billing address. What do you do if you don’t have a US credit/debit card or PayPal account? No worries! Later on, we'll provide guides for alternative payment methods like a Paramount Plus gift card, an Apple or Google Play gift card, or a virtual credit card.

Do You Have to Use a VPN to Stream Paramount Plus in NZ?

Yes, you need a VPN for streaming Paramount Plus in New Zealand because the service isn’t available there. (Well, unless you want to watch a limited selection of Paramount+ content on Sky or Neon, which isn’t ideal.) The full content library with Showtime is US exclusive, but the standalone service also operates in Australia, the UK and several European countries, Canada, Mexico, and 10+ South American countries.

If you’ve tried accessing their site outside a supported area, then you’re already familiar with this geo-block error: “Unique stories. Iconic stars. A mountain of entertainment. Paramount+, home to the world’s favourite stars, stories and brands, is coming soon. Get ready to experience stellar originals, exclusive premieres, hit movies and the very best must-see TV.”

On top of that, US subscribers can’t even watch their paid content if they travel to any unsupported regions. Instead, they see this error message when they try to access their account: “Sorry, Paramount+ is not yet available in this country.”

To avoid these issues, you’ll need to connect to an US VPN server to obtain a US IP address. Basically, you’re going to browse the Internet as if you were physically located in the United States. This will mask your real location and let you create an account on the standalone US Paramount+ service.

Of course, streaming companies are well aware that people use VPNs to bypass their geo-restrictions and regularly block VPN IP addresses. As a result, not every VPN works properly on Paramount+. You'll need one of the best VPNs for Paramount Plus to get the job done. Our #1 choice is NordVPN because it's fast, reliable, and excellent at unblocking Paramount+ from anywhere, including New Zealand.

The Best VPNs for Watching Paramount Plus in New Zealand in 2024

The best VPN should offer an easy way to unblock the US version of Paramount+, as that has its most extensive library. It should also work well with other streaming services. To that end, it needs to have a large US and worldwide server network to stream with zero buffering from anywhere.

Naturally, you’ll want amazing performance and high speeds all around that are suitable for HD and 4K streaming. To avoid leaking your identity, you’ll need obfuscated servers and a reliable kill switch. Privacy-wise, the VPN should keep no user logs. Moreover, the apps should include strong encryption and powerful protocols to maintain your security.

Look for a VPN that works on various platforms (Windows, macOS, Linux, smartphones, smart TVs, and more) and lets you connect multiple devices at the same time. Make sure it has reasonable pricing, too. Otherwise, it’s a good idea to get a provider with 24/7 live chat and a trustworthy money-back guarantee just in case.

Based on the criteria above, here are the 4 best VPNs to unblock Paramount Plus in NZ in 2024:

1. NordVPN - Our #1-Rated VPN to Watch Paramount Plus in New Zealand
2. Surfshark - Get Paramount Plus in NZ with Blazing-Fast Obfuscated Servers
3. ExpressVPN - Secure VPN to Unblock Paramount+ in New Zealand
4. CyberGhost VPN - VPN for Streaming Paramount+ in NZ on a Budget

1. NordVPN - Our #1-Rated VPN to Watch Paramount Plus in New Zealand

NordVPN is the best VPN for streaming Paramount+ in New Zealand because it easily unblocks Paramount Plus and other streamers from anywhere without a fuss. This is thanks to its SmartPlay option, which can change DNS servers in real time to get past any pesky geo-blocks. Moreover, its network numbers 6,300+ servers in 111 countries (including 1,970+ servers in 16 US locations).

NordVPN offers blazing-fast speeds, delivering consistent performance on both remote and nearby servers. We could stream Paramount+ and other services without any dips in quality or buffering, even on the highest quality 4K settings.

This VPN has plenty of obfuscated servers, which allow you to bypass even the most stubborn VPN blocks to watch the content you want. There’s also a kill switch in place. NordVPN has an audited no-logs policy to guarantee full privacy.

What’s more, NordVPN protects your data with the help of its NordLynx protocol (based on WireGuard and paired with ChaCha20 encryption). You can also choose from the traditional OpenVPN and IKEv2/IPsec options with AES-256-GCM enabled.

The VPN functions superbly on every system out there - from Windows to Linux, from smartphones to smart TVs. It can also be configured on routers to protect devices that don't support VPN installation. Moreover, you get 10 simultaneous connections for streaming, browsing securely, and more.

NordVPN is quite affordable, with a 2-year plan for as little as $3.09 monthly. As usual, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee on any subscription. You can also rely on its trusty 24/7 live chat for help with any issues.

2. Surfshark - Get Paramount Plus in NZ with Blazing-Fast Obfuscated Servers

If you need a VPN that can give you access to Paramount+ in NZ, look no further than Surfshark. It has 600+ US servers in 25 cities as part of its worldwide network of 3,200+ servers in 100 countries. This allows it to unblock US Paramount Plus with ease, as well as other streaming services.

Surfshark delivers lightning-fast speeds and reliable performance at baseline. But on top of that, its Nexus technology makes use of its entire network to enhance your speed and the stability of your connections even further. We were able to stream in 4K on both nearby and distant servers without any buffering issues. Plus, its network is fully obfuscated, which helps bypass geo-blocks.

When it comes to security features, Surfshark impressed us. It comes with a powerful kill switch to block the Internet if your device disconnects from the VPN. Moreover, its no-logs policy is independently audited to ensure your privacy. To protect your data, you can choose from protocols like WireGuard, OpenVPN, and IKEv2, which are paired with either ChaCha20 or AES-256-GCM encryption.

Surfshark can be installed on any popular streaming devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, smart TVs, and more. Even better, it allows unlimited simultaneous connections.

If you're on a tight budget, you're in luck - Surfshark has a 2-year plan for only $2.29 per month. Plus, it comes with a 30-day refund period, so you can test it risk-free. Lastly, you can contact its customer support team 24/7 if you need help with anything.

3. ExpressVPN - Secure VPN to Unblock Paramount+ in New Zealand

ExpressVPN is a great choice for unblocking Paramount Plus in NZ, for beginners and advanced users alike. Thanks to its network with thousands of servers in 105 countries (including 24 US server locations), Paramount+ will have no idea that you’re using a VPN to bypass their blocks. It also works well for unblocking other streaming services.

We were able to reliably stream HD and 4K shows and movies on Paramount+ and other websites with no noticeable slowdowns. What’s more, its powerful, network-wide, automatic obfuscation has virtually no effect on ExpressVPN’s outstanding performance and ultra-fast speeds.

To prevent your identity from leaking, ExpressVPN features a solid kill switch to turn off your Internet if the VPN disconnects for whatever reason. The provider also maintains a strict zero-logs policy to ensure none of your activity is being stored on their servers.

Security buffs will be glad to know that ExpressVPN includes strong encryption and protocols like AES-256 paired with OpenVPN and IKEv2, as well as its proprietary Lightway protocol with impenetrable WolfSSL encryption.

You can use the VPN on Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, iOS, tablets, and several smart TVs and other gadgets. Plus, you can install its router app, so your whole household can enjoy VPN capabilities and protection. ExpressVPN offers 8 simultaneous connections for Paramount+, which is plenty since you can only stream the service on 3 screens at once.

Unfortunately, ExpressVPN is on the expensive side. Its annual plan rings up at $6.67 monthly. Every subscription is covered by a 30-day money-back plan, and the provider has 24/7 customer support via live chat for troubleshooting.

4. CyberGhost VPN - VPN for Streaming Paramount+ in NZ on a Budget

CyberGhost VPN is another solid option because it can access Paramount+ in New Zealand on a budget. For pretty cheap, you can choose from thousands servers in 100 countries (this includes plenty of servers in 11 US cities). Many of them are optimized for high-quality streaming on over 40 different platforms.

While it isn't the fastest VPN we reviewed, CyberGhost still achieves decent speeds and stable performance while streaming HD and 4K video. You may see small performance dips on remote servers, but nothing too jarring.

There is no obfuscation, unfortunately, which means the VPN may fail to work if you’re traveling to more restrictive regions like China or the UAE. Otherwise, we had no trouble getting it to work on any of their 40+ supported platforms (as advertised).

CyberGhost includes an always-on kill switch to prevent IP leaks at all times, a strict no-logs policy (with a recent audit), and all the industry-standard protocols - WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2/IPsec, you name it. These are combined with AES-256-GCM or ChaCha20 encryption, depending on the protocol you choose.

And as expected, CyberGhost works reliably on computers, smartphones, and smart TVs, among other devices. There are 7 simultaneous connections available, so the whole family can enjoy the benefits of a top-notch VPN.

You can get a 2-year CyberGhost subscription for a serious bargain: as low as $2.03 per month! If you were planning on a longer subscription, know that you also get a 45-day money-back guarantee. Finally, the provider comes with round-the-clock customer support.

How Much Does Paramount Plus Cost in NZ?

Expect to pay $5.99 (NZD 9.80) per month for the Paramount+ Essential plan, while the Paramount+ with SHOWTIME plan takes you up to $11.99 (NZD 19.62) per month. You can also choose annual subscriptions. All plan options come with a 7-day free trial.

The Essential plan features thousands of hours of content from various channels, plus NFL matches on CBS live, live soccer matches, 24/7 live news on CBS - all with limited ads.

Paramount+ with SHOWTIME gets you everything on the Essential plan, with no ads except on live TV and certain titles. On top of that, you get SHOWTIME originals, a local CBS station, and the ability to download shows for on-the-go viewing.

Here's a handy table with both US and NZ pricing:

Subscription	Price in USD	Price in NZD	Features
Paramount+ Essential	$5.99/month ($59.99/year)	NZD 9.80/month (NZD 98.17/year)	- 7-day free trial - NFL on CBS and UEFA Champions League - Limited ads - 24/7 live CBS News
Paramount+ with SHOWTIME	$11.99/month ($119.99/year)	NZD 19.62/month (NZD 196.37/year)	- 7-day free trial - Everything in Essential plan - No ads except live TV and a few shows - SHOWTIME originals and movies - Live TV with CBS and college football - Ability to download shows

How Do You Subscribe to Paramount Plus in New Zealand?

If you don't have a US credit or debit card, there are 5 methods to choose from to pay for Paramount Plus in New Zealand. First, you can get a Paramount+ gift card, a Google Play Store gift card, or an Apple gift card. Besides those, you can sign up for a virtual credit card or borrow someone's US PayPal account. You'll find handy guides for each method below.

Using a Paramount+ Gift Card

Online retailers like Walmart and GameStop sell virtual Paramount Plus gift cards. Simply use a VPN to connect to a US server, create your account, then use the gift card at checkout. Follow the process below to make things easy:

1. Subscribe to a VPN that unblocks Paramount Plus in NZ (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN and connect to a US server. 
3. Purchase a virtual Paramount+ gift card from an online retailer like Walmart or GameStop.
4. Open the Paramount Plus website and follow our guide from earlier in this article to subscribe.
5. When it's time to add a payment method, instead click the Paramount+ logo in the top-left corner.

6. Hover over your profile icon in the top-right of the home screen and select “Account.”

7. Under the "Subscription & Billing" section, choose “Redeem Gift Card.”

8. Enter your gift card pin and click on “Redeem.”

9. Pick a plan and pay with your gift card funds.

10. That's it! Now, you can find something to watch and start streaming.

Using a Google Play Gift Card

You can use a Google Play Store gift card to pay for Paramount Plus, but you have to create Google account with a US billing address. First, though, you need to connect to a US VPN server. Follow the steps below:

1. Get a VPN for Paramount+ in New Zealand (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN and connect to a server in the US.
3. Create a new US Google account with a US billing address.
4. Buy a US Google Play gift card and redeem the funds in your new Google account.

5. Download the Paramount Plus app from the US Play Store.

6. Launch Paramount+ and subscribe with your Google Play Store funds.

Using an Apple Gift Card

You'll need to create a US Apple ID for this method to work properly. But first, get a VPN and connect to a US server. Here's exactly what to do:

1. Subscribe to a VPN that can unblock Paramount+ in NZ (we recommend NordVPN). 
2. Download the VPN on your streaming device.
3. Connect to a US-based server. 
4. Create a new Apple ID with a US address. 
5. Go to MyGiftCardSupply and purchase a US Apple gift card. 

6. Redeem the gift card in your US App Store account.
7. Install the Paramount Plus app on your iOS device from the App Store. 



8. Launch Paramount Plus, register, and pick something to watch. 

Using a US PayPal Account

If you're lucky enough to have family or friends in the States who would be willing to let you use their PayPal account, you can get Paramount Plus that way. As usual, though, you have to get a VPN too. Here's what to do:

1. Sign up for a VPN that works with Paramount+ (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN and connect to a US server.
3. Go to the Paramount Plus website and register, as covered at the beginning of this article.
4. When you get to the checkout screen, choose PayPal.

5. Click “Check out with PayPal.”

6. Use the US PayPal account you borrowed to complete payment.
7. That's it! Once you're redirected back to Paramount Plus, you can start streaming.

Using a Virtual Credit Card

Getting a US virtual credit card is one of the easiest methods. You still need a VPN to bypass Paramount+ geo-restrictions, though. Follow these steps:

1. Subscribe to a VPN that works on Paramount+ in NZ (we recommend NordVPN).
2. Download and install the VPN and connect to any US server.
3. Launch the US Unlocked website and click on “Get Started.” 

4. Fill out your information and create a new account. 

5. Fund your account to get your virtual card details. 
6. Open the Paramount Plus website and register following our earlier instructions.
7. When you reach the checkout screen, select the credit card option.

5. Enter your virtual credit card information and click “Start Paramount+.”

6. And you're done! Pick a TV show or movie and start watching.

How to Access Paramount+ on Your Devices in NZ

To get the most out of Paramount Plus in New Zealand, you’ll need to unblock the US version with a VPN. Sadly, consoles, smart TVs, and other smart devices don’t have VPN capabilities - in which case, you’ll need to set up a VPN on your router. Here are some step-by-step guides on how to watch Paramount+ on any device:

Mobile Platforms	Android, iPhone & iPad
Game Consoles	Xbox, PlayStation
Smart TVs	Smart TV, Samsung TV, Android TV, LG Smart TV, Vizio Smart TV
Other Streaming Devices	Roku, Firestick & Fire TV, Apple TV, Xfinity Flex and X1, TiVo

What to Watch on Paramount Plus in 2024

Paramount Plus offers plenty of content for any audience. Revisit classic TV shows like Frasier, have a laugh watching Reno 911! or South Park, or catch new Paramount+ Originals like Halo and Evil. You can also explore its massive selection of movies. There are classics like Mission: Impossible and The Godfather, modern epics such as Interstellar, or new blockbusters like Top Gun: Maverick.

Paramount+ also lets you live stream NFL and UEFA Champions League matches and enjoy shows, movies, documentaries, and cartoons from channels like Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, MTV, BET, CBS, and The Smithsonian Channel.

Here’s a curated list of what you can watch on Paramount+ in New Zealand, once you get everything set up:

Paramount Plus Channels	Paramount Plus TV Shows	Paramount Plus Movies	Paramount Plus Originals	Paramount+ Sports
Comedy Central	Ghosts	Past Lives	The Good Fight	Serie A
CBS	NCIS	Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade	Elsbeth	UEFA Champions League
MTV	Survivor	The Whale	Frasier	Europa League
BET	Blue Bloods	Scream VI	Special Ops: Lioness	NFL
Nickelodeon	Young Sheldon	Everything Everywhere All at Once	SEAL Team	US Open Cup
The Smithsonian Channel	Yellowjackets	Mission: Impossible: Dead Reckoning	Criminal Minds: Evolution	AFC Champions League

Final Thoughts

While some of Paramount Plus’ content is available through other services in NZ (Sky Box and Neon), you can't access the standalone US Paramount+ service with the complete content library. That means you’ll have to sign up using a VPN to get Paramount+ in NZ and enjoy everything the platform has to offer.

Our top-recommended VPN is NordVPN for streaming Paramount Plus in New Zealand. You get 6,300+ lightning-fast servers worldwide, including thousands in the US. Plus, most of its servers have obfuscation to keep you off Paramount’s radar. You'll be able to enjoy streaming in 4K without any buffering interruptions.

That's all for our guide on how to watch Paramount Plus in New Zealand. Feel free to drop a comment below if you need any extra info. Thanks for reading!