Do you live in New Zealand and crave the vast variety of shows and movies on American Netflix? Well, don’t fret. Many Kiwis prefer the broader and richer programming accessible in Netflix’s US collection. In this guide, you will learn how to get American Netflix in New Zealand using a VPN service like ExpressVPN.
But why is US Netflix blocked in New Zealand? Owing to the streaming service’s license agreements, which differ by location. American Netflix is only available to viewers in the United States. Similarly, if you reside in or visit New Zealand, you can only watch the local Netflix edition.
Then, can I subscribe to Netflix USA in New Zealand with a VPN service? Yes, but you must pay for a Netflix membership regardless of the version of Netflix you wish to watch. This way, you can watch American Netflix in NZ. So, without further ado, let’s get started with our guide.
How to get American Netflix in New Zealand (5 Easy Steps)
Here is a brief guide on how to get American Netflix in New Zealand:
- Subscribe to a VPN with US servers (our top recommendation is ExpressVPN, as it offers 23+ servers in the US).
- Download and install the ExpressVPN app on your device.
- Launch the VPN and log in using your credentials.
- Connect to a US server (New Jersey – 3 servers are recommended)
- Now, head over to Netflix and watch your favorite shows from the American Netflix library.
Why do you need a VPN to get American Netflix in New Zealand?
You need a VPN because if you try to access Netflix US from New Zealand, you will always be transmitted to the local Netflix. This is because Netflix implements geo-restrictions on its website. The only way around this is to use a reputable VPN service, such as ExpressVPN, to disguise your actual IS address with a US IP address.
You may also face this geo-restriction error on Netflix:
So, then will Netflix change if I use a VPN? Yes, a VPN can make your device or network appear to be connecting to Netflix from a location other than your own. The problem regarding how to change Netflix region is solved, because a VPN can mask your IP address and you can watch any region’s content you like.
Best VPNs to Watch American Netflix in New Zealand (Quick Guide)
Are you thinking how do I get the American version of Netflix? It’s simple. You just have to use a VPN service. That’s why we have listed down the top 3 VPNs to watch US Netflix in NZ:
- ExpressVPN – The Best VPN to get American Netflix in New Zealand. Offers 23+ servers in US, 3000+ servers overall. Excellent unblocking ability with free MediaStreamer feature. Best for uninterrupted Ultra HD streaming with fantastic speeds of 88 Mbps speed on 100 Mbps connection. Available for just NZ$11.25/mo (US$ 6.67/mo) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- Surfshark – Budget VPN to get American Netflix in New Zealand. Affordable VPN costing only NZ$ 4.2/mo (US$ 2.49/mo) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee. Offers 500+ American servers in 20+ US cities. Fast download speeds (84 Mbps on a 100 Mbps base connection) for bufferless streaming. Topped off with unlimited simultaneous connections and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
- NordVPN – Fastest VPN to get American Netflix New Zealand Offers fast streaming speed of 91 Mbps on 100 Mbps connection for 4K, Ultra HD. Offers 1970+ American servers in 15 US cities, allows 6 simultaneous connections, and a 30-day money-back guarantee for just NZ$ 6.73/mo (US$ 3.99/mo) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend.
Best VPNs to Access American Netflix in New Zealand – At a Glance
Here, we’ve reviewed the most crucial aspects of the best VPNs. Do you want a quick overview of the VPN features? Well, begin with ExpressVPN.
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| Website | ExpressVPN.com | Surfshark.com | NordVPN.com |
| Ranking for American Netflix | 1 | 2 | 3 |
| Avg Speed (US) | 89+ Mbps | 88+ Mbps | 85+ Mbps |
| US Servers | 15 cities | 25 cities / 600+ servers | 16 cities / 5800+ servers |
| Simultaneous Connections | 8 | Unlimited | 6 |
| Other services | HBO, BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, and others | Hulu, Amazon Prime, Disney+ and others | Hulu, HBO, Amazon Prime, Disney+, ITV Hub, BBC iPlayer, and more |
| Best deal (per month) | NZ$11.25/mo (US$ 6.67/mo) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free | NZ$4.2/mo (US$ 2.49/mo) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee | NZ$6.73/mo (US$ 3.99/mo) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend |
3 Best VPNs to get American Netflix in New Zealand in 2024 (In-depth Analysis)
We tested 40+ VPNs on various performance criteria like the ability to unblock American Netflix, speed, and video quality. The following 3 VPNs are best to get American Netflix in New Zealand in 2022.
1. ExpressVPN – The Best VPN to get American Netflix in New Zealand
Key features:
- 3000+ servers in 105 countries, including 23+ server locations in the US
- Speed: 89.42 Mbps
- Simultaneous Connections: 8 devices
- Unlimited bandwidth for HD streaming
- Price: NZ$ 11.25/mo (US$ 6.67/mo) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free
ExpressVPN is the best VPN to get American Netflix in New Zealand owing to its 3000+ servers across 105 locations, along with 23+ servers in America. All these servers are optimized for streaming, so you can easily change your Netflix region with its American servers and enjoy the Netflix US library.
Unblock Netflix using ExpressVPN.
If we talk about speed, ExpressVPN delivers an average download speed of 89.42 Mbps and an upload speed of 84.64 on our 100 Mbps connection, which is terrific for bufferless streaming.
ExpressVPN speed test.
In addition, it also offers a SmartDNS feature called MediaStreamer for those who want fast speeds. With MediaStreamer, you can stream American Netflix using your IP address on devices that don’t have native support for VPN, like Smart TVs, Apple TV, PS4, Xbox, and more.
ExpressVPN is compatible with multiple operating systems like Windows, iOS, Android, Mac, Linux, etc. Apart from streaming, you can expect industry-best security features from ExpressVPN, including AES 256-bit encryption, kill switch, and DNS leak protection, to ensure your online security.
You can get this VPN for only NZ$ 11.25/mo (US$ 6.67/mo) - Save up to 49% with exclusive 1-year plans + 3 months free. ExpressVPN also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and 3 months free subscription on its 12-monthly plan.
You can read our latest ExpressVPN review and explore more about the provider.
2. Surfshark – Affordable VPN to get American Netflix in New Zealand
Key Features:
- Servers: 3200+ servers in 100 countries, 600+ servers in 23+ cities in the US
- Speed: 88.48 Mbps on a 100 Mbps internet connection
- Whitelister feature
- Simultaneous connections: Unlimited devices
- Unlimited bandwidth for 4K UHD streaming
- Money-back guarantee: 30 days
Surfshark is the best budget VPN to get American Netflix in New Zealand. It offers the dual advantage of being a reasonable VPN costing only NZ$ 4.2/mo (US$ 2.49/mo) - Save up to 77% with exclusive 2-year plan + 30-day money-back guarantee while also being a top-ranking VPN in terms of its performance.
The provider is known for its excellent ability to bypass Netflix’s VPN detection mechanism and offering unrestricted access to its US library. Surfshark has over 3200+ servers across 100 countries, including 600+ servers in 20+ US cities.
Using US server of Surfshark, you can unblock Netflix.
If we talk about speed, then Surfshark did not disappoint. It offered an average download speed of 88.48 Mbps, which was enough to stream Netflix in Ultra HD quality.
Surfshark speed test.
With Surfshark, you can connect as many devices as you want because it allows unlimited simultaneous connections. And, it is compatible with all major platforms like Windows, iOS, Android, macOS, Linux, etc.
Surfshark also offers top-security features like AES 256-bit encryption, kill switch, IP, DNS, and WebRTC leak protection. Moreover, it also offers an adblocking feature called CleanWeb.
Its affordable plans are backed with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free in New Zealand and cancel your Surfshark subscription if you don’t want to continue. To learn more about this service, you can read our Surfshark review.
3. NordVPN – Fastest VPN to get American Netflix in New Zealand
Key Features:
- Servers: 6000+ servers in 61 countries, including 1970+ servers in the US
- Speed: 86.38 Mbps on a 100 Mbps internet connection
- Double VPN, AES 256-bit Encryption
- Simultaneous connections: 6 devices
- Unlimited bandwidth for HD streaming
- Money-back guarantee: 30 days
NordVPN is one of the fastest VPNs to get American Netflix in New Zealand. One reason is its massive server network of 6000+ servers across 61 countries, including 1970+ servers in the US.
NordVPN unblocked American Netflix smoothly.
It proved itself during our speed tests by offering impressive download speeds of up to 86.38 Mbps and upload speeds of up to 80.42 Mbps on a connection of up to 100 Mbps.
NordVPN speed test.
It is compatible with iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, and more. It also supports 6 simultaneous connections. NordVPN is a popular choice amongst Netflix users because of its ability to bypass detection with its obfuscated servers that disguise your VPN traffic like normal HTTPS traffic, so Netflix cannot detect that you are using a VPN.
It also offers additional security features like Double VPN, CyberSec, and more. Therefore, NordVPN is a reliable option to watch Netflix US in NZ.
All its plans are backed with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can test the service risk-free in New Zealand to see if it’s yours. It costs only NZ$ 6.73/mo (US$ 3.99/mo) - Save up to 63% with exclusive 2-year plan + 3 months free for a friend. To learn more about this VPN, read our NordVPN review.
How to Subscribe to American Netflix in New Zealand?
Here are the quick steps to subscribe to American Netflix in New Zealand:
- Subscribe to a reliable VPN that works perfectly with Netflix (preferably ExpressVPN).
- Download the VPN application and log in with your credentials.
- Select a fast US server from the list (Recommended – New York server.)
- Go to the Netflix Sign Up page from a web browser or Netflix’s mobile app.
- Select the subscription plan that caters to your streaming needs.
- Follow the account registration process and provide the necessary details like your name, email, age, etc.
- Choose your preferred payment method.
- Voila! You have successfully subscribed to Netflix.
- Sign in to your account and start streaming in New Zealand!
Things to consider while choosing a VPN for American Netflix in New Zealand
The 3 VPNs mentioned above have been tested on various criteria. When looking for the best VPN for American Netflix in New Zealand, make sure to consider the following factors:
- A strict no-logging policy is combined with military-grade encryption.
- A broad and diversified server network, including a large number of servers throughout the United States.
- Connection speeds that are fast enough to reduce buffering and assure high-quality streaming.
- A money-back guarantee that allows you to test the VPN without risk.
- Live-chat assistance is available around the clock for speedy troubleshooting, especially when figuring out how to access American Netflix in New Zealand.
- A strong reputation for unblocking Netflix America regularly and dependably.
ExpressVPN succeeds in all of these areas, making it our recommended VPN for Netflix and the reason we recommend it as the best option.
Can I use a free VPN to get American Netflix in New Zealand?
Technically, you can use a free VPN for Netflix. However, we don’t recommend using one. First, free VPNs don’t work with Netflix as the platform already blacklists most. Free VPNs offer a limited number of servers and IP addresses that have so much traffic that it becomes easier for Netflix to identify these VPN servers and block access.
Then, does any free VPN work with Netflix? Yes, you can opt for Windscribe, as it is better than most of the free VPNs in the market. But, our advice is that it’s best to stick to premium VPNs like ExpressVPN as it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee to use it with Netflix free for 30 days.
Still having issues accessing American Netflix in New Zealand?
If you are using a recommended VPN mentioned above and still cannot access American Netflix in New Zealand, then here are some troubleshooting tips to help fix the problem:
- Clear browser cookies and cache.
- Log out of Google accounts on your device because Google caches IP addresses and can reveal your real geo-location to Netflix.
- Disable IPv6 (this is mainly for Windows 10 devices, as it might cause issues on other OS)
- Disable all location-based services and GPS on your device.
- Flush your DNS. To do that, type this in Command Prompt: ipconfig /flushdns
- Disconnect from the VPN server and connect again to get a different IP address.
- Contact VPN customer support to ask them which server is not blocked by Netflix.
How to Stream American Netflix in New Zealand on Devices
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to unblock and stream American Netflix on multiple devices in New Zealand:
| Android devices | iOS devices |
| Roku | MacOS |
| Fire TV and Amazon Firestick | Xbox |
| PlayStation 4 | Chromecast |
| Apple TV | Android TV |
| Paramount Plus on Xfinity Flex | Vizio TV |
| Paramount Plus on Samsung TV | LG TV |
| Portal TV | – |
How to get American Netflix in New Zealand on Smart TVs
Follow these steps to get American Netflix on your Smart TV via router:
- Choose a VPN and configure the VPN on your router.
- Now, connect to a US server.
- Connect your Smart TV to the router on which you have configured the VPN.
- Head over to the Netflix app on your Smart TV and sign in. It will automatically take you to American Netflix.
- Enjoy streaming the US library!
This way, you can get American Netflix on your Samsung Smart TV, Apple TV, LG Smart TV, and more.
How to get American Netflix on FireStick in New Zealand
Follow these steps to how to change Netflix to American on FireStick:
- Subscribe to a VPN like ExpressVPN.
- Turn on your FireStick and search for ExpressVPN.
- Download and install the app.
- Once the installation is complete, log in to your ExpressVPN account.
- Connect to a US server.
- Open the Netflix app, and you will automatically be redirected to the American Netflix library. Enjoy.
How to get American Netflix in New Zealand on Xbox
Follow these steps below to get American Netflix on your Xbox in New Zealand:
- Subscribe to a VPN like ExpressVPN.
- Download and Install the VPN on your desktop.
- Go to ExpressVPN DNS settings.
- Click Register My IP Address under ‘IP address registration.’
- Go to the MediaStreamer page and get your DNS addresses. Write it down.
- Launch your Xbox > go to Settings > System > Change your location to US.
- Go to Advanced Settings > DNS Setting > Manual.
- Enter MediaStreamer IP address from Step 5 > Save.
- Head over to Netflix and enjoy the American content library in New Zealand.
How to get American Netflix in New Zealand on iOS
Follow these steps to get American Netflix on an iOS device:
- Subscribe to a VPN like ExpressVPN.
- Go to the App Store and download the VPN app on your iOS device.
- Launch the ExpressVPN app and log in.
- Connect to a US server from the list of servers.
- Once the connection is established, head over to Netflix, and it will automatically take you to the American content library.
Make sure to keep your device location service feature disabled when accessing American Netflix content.
How to get American Netflix in New Zealand on PlayStation
Follow these steps below to get American Netflix in New Zealand on your PlayStation (PS3/PS4/PS5):
- Subscribe to ExpressVPN.
- Go to ExpressVPN’s official website and log in with your credentials.
- Select ‘Set Up More Devices‘
- Choose PlayStation and note down MediaStreamer IP addresses.
- Launch your PlayStation.
- Go to XMB > Settings > Network Settings > Internet Connection Settings.
- Click OK > select Custom.
- Type your MediaStreamer DNS IP address and click OK.
- Restart your device and head over to Netflix, and log in.
- Enjoy streaming the American Netflix library.
Why is Netflix US Better Than Netflix NZ?
For various reasons, the Netflix collection in the United States is frequently regarded as superior to that of Netflix New Zealand:
- Content Variety: The Netflix USA collection is far larger and more diversified than the Netflix NZ library. It has more films, TV series, documentaries, and original content than the New Zealand library. This implies that Netflix users in the United States will have access to more content.
- New Releases: US New Releases Netflix receives new movies and TV program seasons before other regional libraries, including the New Zealand library. As a result, subscribers may remain up to date on the most recent information.
- Originals on Netflix: Netflix creates a significant quantity of original material, and many of these episodes and features are originally only available in the US library.
- Content Licensing: Content licensing contracts vary by area. Some episodes and films may be accessible on Netflix in the United States due to license arrangements that the New Zealand library lacks. This might lead to a more diversified content offering.
- Regional Restrictions: Netflix’s geographical limitations are intended to comply with content licensing agreements and local legislation. These limitations can make some episodes or movies unavailable in particular locations, including New Zealand.
- Geographical Restrictions: In certain situations, material owners may opt to distribute their content only in the US or postpone its access in other locations, contributing to the perception of the US library’s superiority.
By looking at the above information, you already know if is Netflix US worth it in New Zealand. NZ version has a limited library, but it’s your choice whether you want to explore new and best shows or are happy with the limited library.
Netflix US vs. Netflix New Zealand: Price Comparison
Here is a brief price comparison of Netflix plans on both American Netflix and Netflix New Zealand:
Basic Subscription Plan
The Basic Netflix package includes 1 SD resolution screen for NZD 12.99. In the United States, the same basic package with more TV episodes and movies as NZ Netflix costs USD 9.99.
| Subscription Plan | Netflix US cost per month | Netflix NZ cost per month | Video Quality | Screen Sharing |
| Basic (without ads) | USD 9.99 (NZD 16.14) |
NZD 12.99 (USD 8.41) |
SD | 1 |
Standard Subscription Plan
In New Zealand, the Standard Netflix plan costs NZD 18.49 a month and includes HD video streaming on two screens. The base package in the US is USD 15.49, which is less than NZ Netflix.
| Subscription Plan | American Netflix Cost | NZ Netflix Cost | Video Quality | Screen Sharing |
| Standard | USD 15.49 (NZD 25.03) |
NZD 18.49 (USD 11.97) |
HD | 2 |
Premium Subscription Plan
The Premium subscription package costs NZD 24.99 per month and includes HD and Ultra HD streaming choices. Furthermore, a user get four displays with a single Premium membership.
The Premium plan, like other Netflix subscriptions, is less expensive in the United States, starting at USD 19.99.
| Subscription Plan | American Netflix Cost | NZ Netflix Cost | Video Quality | Screen Sharing |
| Premium | USD 19.99 (NZD 32.30) |
NZD 24.99 (USD 16.17) |
4 HD and 1 Ultra HD | 4 |
What’s New on American Netflix in NZ in January 2024
Want to know what’s on American Netflix? The following are popular American Netflix shows and movies:
| The Brothers Sun | Boy Swallows Universe |
| Annabelle | Fool Me Once |
| Annie (1982) | Gravity |
| Antz | How to Train Your Dragon |
| Aquaman | It’s Complicated |
| Beethoven | John Wick, chapter 2-3 |
| Bitconned | Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again |
| The Croods | Peppa Pig, Seasons 3–6 |
| Sonic Prime Chapter 3 | You Are What You Eat: A Twin Experiment |
| Queer Eye, Season 8 | Love Is Blind: Sweden (new episodes) |
| Griselda | The Seven Deadly Sins: Four Knights of the Apocalypse: Part 1 |
FAQ: American Netflix in New Zealand
Is a VPN illegal in NZ?
No, it is not illegal to use a VPN for Netflix in New Zealand. As long as your activities while connected remain within the bounds of the law, it is essential to adhere to both legal regulations and the terms of service outlined by your VPN provider.
Can Netflix detect VPN?
Netflix possesses the capability to identify VPN usage through the detection of DNS leaks. The streaming service maintains a record of all the requests it encounters along with their corresponding IP addresses. In cases where an unusually elevated level of traffic emanates from a specific IP address, Netflix has the ability to flag that IP address as associated with a VPN. But do not worry much about it, as ExpressVPN has a huge number of US IP servers that can easily resolve these issues.
What other American channels can I stream in New Zealand with a VPN?
Despite streaming services NZ, you can watch American channels with a VPN, Hulu, HBO Go, Sling TV, The CW, YouTube TV, and more. All you need to do is connect to a server and change your IP address to America and unblock all American streaming platforms from abroad.
Can I watch American Netflix without a VPN in NZ?
Yes, you can. If you don’t want to utilize a VPN, there are a few more options for changing your Netflix location. Smart DNS services are by far the best solution, but you may also utilize a proxy server, remote desktop software, the Tor browser, or try setting up a home VPN server.
How do I switch to US Netflix in New Zealand?
The country on your account cannot be changed until you relocate. For more information about moving with Netflix, see Moving with Netflix.
Wrapping Up
Netflix New Zealand is missing a lot of content that Americans can enjoy on Netflix US. Fortunately, with a VPN, you can bridge this content gap and unblock American Netflix.
We hope by now, you know how to get American Netflix in New Zealand. Our top recommended VPN for unblocking American Netflix is ExpressVPN owing to its excellent unblocking ability and fast speeds for bufferless streaming.
It also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee so you can stream American Netflix in New Zealand free for 30 days.
