Buying a Second-Hand Phone in New Zealand
Most second-hand phones in New Zealand sell on Trade Me and Facebook Marketplace. NZ networks block phones reported lost or stolen, and as 3G networks close, older phones need 4G calling to keep working. Here is how to check a phone before you pay.
Where people buy used phones in New Zealand
- Trade Me: Trade Me’s Buyer Protection can cover eligible purchases. Check what applies to the listing and pay the way it requires.
- Facebook Marketplace: Local and usually cash, with no protection. Meet in person and test first.
- Refurbished (networks and retailers): Cost more but include a warranty.
Check it isn’t stolen or blocked
Phones reported lost or stolen are blocked across New Zealand networks. There is currently no free public IMEI lookup, so put your own SIM in and make a call before you pay, and ask your network if you’re unsure. Use our IMEI checker to make sure the number from *#06# is valid and matches the box and settings.
Carrier locks and network compatibility
Most phones sold in NZ are unlocked; confirm with your own SIM. With 3G networks closing, make sure the model supports 4G calling (VoLTE) on your network, especially for older or imported phones.
Your rights
The Consumer Guarantees Act applies to businesses (including traders on Trade Me), not to private sellers. A private sale is as described and as is.
Common scams in New Zealand
- Phones blocked after the sale.
- iCloud or Google account lock left on.
- Sellers who insist on a bank transfer and courier delivery.
- Imported phones that don’t support NZ 4G calling.
Paying safely
Meet in a public place, test the phone and make a call with your SIM before paying. If buying by courier, pay through Trade Me’s protected payment options.
Test the hardware before you pay
- Open mxmob.com/check on the phone itself and tap Test all. It checks the screen, touch, speakers, microphone, cameras, sensors, buttons, charging and Wi-Fi in about 10 minutes, with no app.
- Dial *#06# and compare the IMEI with the box and Settings, then run the check above.
- Watch the seller sign out of iCloud or Google and reset the phone.
- Check battery health (iPhone: Settings › Battery › Battery Health) and look for replaced parts.
- Put your SIM in and make a call.
The full list is in the used phone checklist.
FAQ
How do I check a phone isn’t blocked in NZ?
There is no free public lookup at the moment. Insert your own SIM and make a call before paying; a blocked phone won’t connect. Ask your network if you need more certainty.
Does the Consumer Guarantees Act cover private sales?
No. It covers sales by businesses, including traders on Trade Me. Private sales don’t carry those guarantees.
What else should I check?
Battery health, that the seller has signed out of iCloud or Google, and the hardware: run the free MxMob test on the phone itself.