How to Watch BBC iPlayer from New Zealand

How to Watch BBC iPlayer from New Zealand

You must have a legal right to access content in the UK, learn more here

Start using the Best British VPN

Two Click Install to starting accessing UK content abroad.

Install BritVPN

The BBC iPlayer streaming service may be the best in the world, but unfortunaetly it is exclusively only those based in the UK. Thankfully, there is a simple way that people from New Zealand can use to start watching BBC iPlayer. Install Beebs to your browser to stream without limits. Read on to learn more.


Follow These Steps to Stream BBC iPlayer in NZ:

  1. Start using Chrome Browser
  2. Install BritvPVN (formally Beebs)
  3. Head over to BBC iPlayer

All it takes is half a minute to register to the BBC iPlayer, and you'll get the full access to the BBC streaming service on demand.


Unblocking BBC iPlayer in NZ with Beebs

The easiest way to watch the BBC iPlayer is by installing the Beebs Chrome Extension to your browser. This lightweight tool sits quietly at the top of your browser and connects to a UK server upon clicking. As you are only connected in a specific tab so the experience is sleek and smooth. There is also an insta-clock option for those who want to access the Channel 4 from New Zealand or ITVX. If you're still not sure if you should install, we've listed some other important reasons to give it a shot.

+ Pros

  • Works worldwide
  • Supports numerous UK streaming services
  • 24/7 support  
  • Money-back guarantee

– Cons

  • Big discounts only available for longer subscriptions
  • Limited to Chrome Browser (for now)

BBC iPlayer Channels

BBC iPlayer lets you watch your favourite TV shows live as they go to air. You can also choose from the vast catalogue of shows and watch whatever you want on demand. In terms of quality, BBC iPlayer leads all comers in the UK streaming service market, boasting huge hit series like Luther, Doctor Who, Top Gear, and more. Every genre imaginable is covered, so you'll always find something to binge.

The main channels on the platform include:

  • BBC One
  • BBC Two
  • BBC Three
  • BBC News
  • BBC Sport
  • CBeebies
BBC iPlayer main user screen desktop
(Credit: BBC/Beebs)

The streaming service clearly has a lot going for it, with a stream of new programmes launching every week. The broadcaster also has a lot of original content to pull from its archives. One thing to keep in mind is that the BBC is selective in adding classic content, so you won't find everything.

And while having live sports is a positive, the broadcaster doesn't have the rights to that many leagues or contests. So you may still be relying on the big operators to get your sports fix. Thankfully the highlights shows are always of quality, with the long-running programme Match of the Day being the obvious standout.

Trailer of BBC iPlayer 2024

Does BBC iPlayer Work in New Zealand?

You may have noticed that the BBC iPlayer website does not automatically work from New Zealand. This is because the BBC iPlayer has been a free UK exclusive service since its inception. This means you'll be needing to get yourself a VPN or similar tool to unblock the site.

Do VPNs Provide a Good Option to Unblock BBC iPlayer?

Originally designed to help international companies communicate confidentially, an added feature was that you can choose to connect to a server in a chosen location. For New Zealanders this means they can appear to be in the UK and connect to the BBC iPlayer.

On the downside, VPNs can hog resources on your computer, slowing down your internet connection. Also you may need some basic technical knowledge to solve any connection problems. It should also be noted that most VPNs will be detected by the BBC, making it hard to recommend this option.

Beebs Chrome Extension on ChromeStore
(Credit: Google/Beebs)

Final Words

New Zealanders may be missing out on great programmes from the BBC and other UK TV content without the right set up. Beebs is an obvious choice to solve this issue. Not only does it access iPlayer, but users can also watch the ITVX streaming service in NZ as well as Channel 4. It's a win-win all round.

Frequently asked questions

The best way to get a live BBC stream and watch BBC TV shows in New Zealand is by downloading Beebs. This is a Chrome Extension which is built with the sole purpose of accessing the British TV channels when outside the UK.
Gaining direct access to the BBC iPlayer streaming service for free isn't possible. However, a cheap and reliable way of doing so is by installing Beebs - a simple chrome extension that guarantees access to the BBC stream from NZ.

You must have a legal right to access content in the UK, learn more here

Start using the Best British VPN

Two Click Install to starting accessing UK content abroad.

Install BritVPN

If you do not have a legal right to access the content you are trying to access, please do not use Beebs.io. For more information, please read our Terms of Service.