Hotstar, now rebranded as Disney+ Hotstar, is a popular streaming platform offering a wide variety of Indian content, including movies, TV shows, sports, and exclusive Disney+ content. While it’s widely accessible in India and selected other regions, viewers in New Zealand face restrictions due to geo-blocking, meaning they can’t access the full library of content. However, there’s a simple solution to bypass these restrictions: using a VPN. A VPN allows you to connect to a server in a region where Hotstar is available, giving you access to all of its content as if you were in India. With a reliable VPN, you can easily watch Hotstar in New Zealand from the comfort of your home.
Quick steps to watch Hotstar in New Zealand with a VPN
- Get a premium VPN [Recommended: ExpressVPN]
- Download the VPN app and sign in
- Connect to a server in India [Recommended: New Dehli]
- Visit Hotstar and log in to your account
- Start streaming Hotstar from New Zealand
What is Hotstar?
Hotstar, now known as Disney+ Hotstar, is a leading Indian streaming platform that offers a diverse range of content, including blockbuster movies, popular TV shows, live sports, and exclusive international content. The platform is widely known for streaming a vast selection of Indian films and television shows in multiple languages, as well as high-profile sports events like the Indian Premier League (IPL) and international cricket matches. In addition to local Indian content, Hotstar features international hits, including Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars titles, thanks to its partnership with Disney. Available in several regions, Hotstar provides a mix of free and subscription-based content, catering to a wide audience with its broad selection.
In which countries is Hotstar available?
.Hotstar, now known as Disney+ Hotstar, is available in several countries, primarily in South Asia and selected international markets. It is most widely accessible in India, where it originated, offering a vast library of local and international content. The platform is also available in other regions, including Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand, where it offers a mix of local and international programming. Additionally, Hotstar has expanded its reach to the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia, providing Indian content to the diaspora, as well as popular global titles. However, the content library may differ based on regional licensing agreements, and some titles may only be available in specific markets.
Can I watch Hotstar in New Zealand?
You can watch Hotstar in New Zealand, but due to geo-restrictions, you will encounter an error message if you try to access it directly. Hotstar is only officially available in certain countries, like India, and when trying to access it from the US, you’ll likely see an error message stating that the service is unavailable in your region.
To bypass this geo-restriction, you can use a VPN. A VPN allows you to connect to a server in a region where Hotstar is available, such as India. By doing so, you can mask your IP address and make it appear as though you are accessing the platform from a supported country, thus avoiding the geo-blocking issue. Once connected to a server in India, you should be able to access Hotstar’s full content library, including premium content, as if you were browsing from within India.
How can I sign up to watch Hotstar in New Zealand?
To watch Hotstar in New Zealand, follow these steps:
- Choose a reliable VPN provider: Select a VPN with servers in India, such as ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or Surfshark.
- Install the VPN: Download and install the VPN app on your device (PC, smartphone, or tablet).
- Connect to an Indian server: Open the VPN app and connect to a server located in India to bypass geo-restrictions.
- Go to the Hotstar website or app: Open the Hotstar website or app in your browser.
- Create a Hotstar account: Click on “Sign Up” or “Register” to create a new account. You’ll need to enter your email and set a password.
- Provide payment details: If you want access to premium content, select a subscription plan (Hotstar offers both free and paid plans) and provide payment details.
- Verify with an Indian phone number (if required): Some plans may ask you to verify your account with an Indian phone number. You can use an online service for this step if needed.
- Start watching: Once your account is set up, browse and enjoy Hotstar’s vast content library!
What is the cost of watching Hotstar in New Zealand?
You can watch Disney+ Hotstar in New Zealand, but accessing the Indian version requires using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) due to regional restrictions. Here’s the cost of watching Disney+ Hotstar in New Zealand:
| Plan | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Hotstar via VPN (Mobile Plan) | ₹499/year (~$6) | Access to Indian content, including movies and sports. |
| Indian Hotstar via VPN (Super Plan) | ₹899/year (~$11) | Includes HD content and live sports like IPL. |
| Indian Hotstar via VPN (Premium Plan) | ₹1,499/year (~$18) | Premium content with ad-free streaming. |
| Disney+ Hotstar via Hulu (The Disney Bundle) | $9.99/month | Includes access to Hotstar content through Hulu, along with Disney+ and ESPN+. |
You can choose between subscribing to the Indian version through a VPN or the US-based Disney+ Hotstar content via Hulu.
Best VPNs to watch Hotstar in New Zealand
If you’re in New Zealand and craving access to the vast library of content on Disney+ Hotstar, you’re in for a treat, but first, you’ll need to bypass geo-restrictions. As a VPN analyst, I’ve tested several VPNs to help you access Hotstar’s Indian library, and from my experience, ExpressVPN, NordVPN, and Surfshark stand out as the best options. These VPNs offer fast speeds, reliable servers in India, and top-notch security, ensuring you can stream your favorite Bollywood movies, cricket matches, and exclusive shows without buffering or interruptions. In this guide, I’ll walk you through why these three VPNs are the top choices for unblocking Hotstar in New Zealand, so you can start enjoying your content hassle-free.
ExpressVPN- Our Recommended VPN
ExpressVPN is often regarded as one of the most reliable VPN services for accessing geo-restricted content, and it’s no different when it comes to watching Hotstar in New Zealand. With servers in over 90 countries, including India, ExpressVPN ensures you can bypass Hotstar’s geo-restrictions and stream Indian content effortlessly. Its lightning-fast speeds mean you won’t have to worry about buffering or lagging while watching your favorite Bollywood movies or live sports.
One of the key features that makes ExpressVPN stand out is its strong security measures. With 256-bit AES encryption, a strict no-logs policy, and a built-in kill switch, it ensures your online activity remains private and secure. Whether you’re watching the IPL or tuning into the latest Bollywood release, you can do so with confidence, knowing that your data is well-protected.
ExpressVPN is user-friendly and works seamlessly across all devices, from your smartphone and laptop to smart TVs and streaming devices like Roku and Fire TV. This versatility, combined with its reliability and ease of use, makes it a top choice for anyone in New Zealand looking to watch Hotstar without interruptions.
- ExpressVPN provides an extensive server network spanning over 3,000 servers in 105 nations.
- Indulge in uninterrupted Hotstar binge-watching sessions thanks to the Media Streamer feature.
- For optimal savings, select from various subscription options: monthly ($12.95), yearly ($4.99 per month), or a 2-year plan.
- Link up to 8 devices concurrently, covering smartphones, computers, tablets, and Fire Sticks.
Pros
- They value your privacy and explain everything they do clearly.
- You can trust their strong security to keep your information safe.
- Enjoy watching shows on Hotstar without any interruptions.
- They follow strict privacy rules so that you can feel even more confident.
Cons
- Even though ExpressVPN costs more than other options, it offers top-notch service.
- You can use it on 8 devices simultaneously, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
- Although the Apple TV app is good, we always strive to improve it.
NordVPN- The Biggest Network
NordVPN is another excellent choice for accessing Hotstar in New Zealand. Known for its robust network of over 5,000 servers worldwide, including several in India, NordVPN guarantees fast and reliable connections, so you can stream Hotstar’s diverse content library with ease. Whether you’re into Bollywood blockbusters or live sports, NordVPN’s optimized servers make sure you enjoy smooth streaming without constant buffering.
Security is a major selling point with NordVPN. It uses military-grade encryption and offers additional privacy features such as CyberSec, which blocks ads and malicious websites, and Double VPN, which routes your traffic through two servers for enhanced security. These features are perfect for those who value both privacy and performance while watching Hotstar.
The platform is compatible with all major devices and operating systems, and its simple interface makes it easy for even VPN beginners to set up and use. Plus, NordVPN offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try it risk-free and ensure it’s the right fit for your Hotstar streaming needs.
- With over 5,300 servers in 59+ countries, NordVPN lets you say goodbye to buffering and hello to smooth streaming, no matter where you are.
- Stream Hotstar can be accessed with NordVPN on your phone, laptop, tablet, or even your smart TV. NordVPN lets you connect up to 6 devices simultaneously to share the love with friends and family.
- NordVPN doesn’t compromise. It offers blazing-fast speeds for uninterrupted streaming while protecting your connection.
- NordVPN offers flexible plans to fit your needs, starting at just $12.99 monthly, with even better deals for longer subscriptions.
Pros
- Forget about those annoying pauses while you’re watching Hotstar, which was accessed with NordVPN! Now, you can enjoy your favorite shows and movies without any interruptions.
- Make the most of your Hotstar access with NordVPN time with easy-to-use features that make watching a breeze.
- You won’t have any technical troubles here. Thanks to our user-friendly interface, navigating through the VPN is super simple.
- Rest easy knowing that we prioritize your privacy and security.
- And for those who take security seriously, we offer extra options to keep your information safe and sound.
- Say farewell to those annoyingly choppy streams and welcome a smooth Hotstar, accessed with the NordVPN experience.
- Pick the payment method that suits you best, with plenty of convenient options available.
Cons
- The pricing plans are confusing.
- Limited to 6 simultaneous connections.
SurfShark – An Affordable VPN
Surfshark is an affordable yet powerful VPN that stands out when it comes to unblocking Hotstar in New Zealand. With over 3,200 servers across 100 countries, including India, Surfshark makes it simple to access Hotstar’s content, no matter where you are. Its unlimited device support is a huge plus for families or individuals who want to stream on multiple devices simultaneously without sacrificing quality.
One of the standout features of Surfshark is its CleanWeb technology, which blocks ads, trackers, and malware while you browse. This not only improves your streaming experience by removing interruptions but also provides an extra layer of security as you stream Hotstar. With 256-bit encryption, an automatic kill switch, and a no-logs policy, Surfshark keeps your data private and safe while you enjoy your favorite content.
What really sets Surfshark apart is its affordability. Despite its low cost, Surfshark delivers premium features such as fast speeds, strong encryption, and a reliable connection to Indian servers. If you’re on a budget but still want to watch Hotstar in New Zealand, Surfshark is a great option that won’t break the bank. Plus, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.
- With a massive network of over 3,200 servers across 100+ countries, Surfshark easily lets you access Hotstar. There is no buffering, just smooth sailing for your next binge-watch.
- Enjoy Hotstar on all your devices at the same time! Surfshark allows unlimited connections so the whole family can catch up on their favorite shows on their phone, laptop, tablet, or even a Fire Stick. Movie night, they just got a whole lot easier!
- Surfshark takes your privacy seriously. Their strict no-logs policy means you can stream without worrying about your data being tracked.
- Surfshark offers flexible monthly subscription plans starting at just $15.54. They also have great discounts for annual and 2-year plans so that you can save even more!
Pros
- Select a bigger plan and get the cheapest way to watch your favorite shows and movies.
- Stop arguing over who gets to watch! This service is great for families or people who like to watch wherever they are. It can be used on multiple devices simultaneously.
- This service focuses on keeping your information safe. You can feel confident watching Hotstar, knowing your data is always secure.
- This service offers many extra features, making your Hotstar experience more enjoyable than regular streaming.
Cons
- Some people might find it confusing to understand how much they need to pay and their options when choosing a subscription.
- The different subscription plans might be too complicated for people who prefer simple choices.
- There’s space for making the Linux interface better.
What devices can I use to watch Hotstar in New Zealand?
You can watch Hotstar on the following streaming devices:
- iOS devices
- Android devices
- Roku
- Firestick
- Apple TV
- Smart TV
- Kodi
- Windows
How to watch Hotstar in New Zealand on iOS devices?
- Install a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or Surfshark on your iOS device.
- Launch the VPN and connect to a server located in India.
- Change your App Store region to India by updating your Apple ID settings.
- In the App Store, search for “Disney+ Hotstar” and download the app.
- Launch the Hotstar app and sign in or create a new account.
- Pick a suitable plan (free or paid) and provide payment details if needed.
- Browse the content library and enjoy Hotstar’s shows, movies, and live sports.
How to watch Hotstar in New Zealand on Android devices?
- Install a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or Surfshark on your Android device.
- Open the VPN and connect to a server in India.
- Change your Google Play Store region to India by updating your account settings.
- Search for “Disney+ Hotstar” in the Google Play Store and download the app.
- Open the Hotstar app and sign in or create a new account.
- Select a suitable plan (free or paid) and enter payment details if required.
- Browse and enjoy Hotstar’s movies, shows, and live sports.
How to watch Hotstar in New Zealand on Roku?
- Install a VPN like ExpressVPN, NordVPN, or Surfshark on your router or directly on your Roku device.
- Open the VPN app and connect to a server in India.
- On your Roku device, go to the Channel Store and search for the Hotstar app.
- Add the Hotstar app to your Roku device.
- Launch the Hotstar app on your Roku and sign in or create a new account.
- Select a plan (free or paid) and enter payment details if needed.
- Browse and enjoy Hotstar’s content on your TV via Roku.
How can I remove Hotstar streaming errors?
To remove Hotstar streaming errors, follow these steps:
- Check your VPN connection: Ensure you’re connected to a server in India if you’re using a VPN to access Hotstar in New Zealand.
- Clear cache and data: On your device, clear the cache and data of the Hotstar app to remove any corrupt files causing the error.
- Update the app: Make sure your Hotstar app is updated to the latest version to avoid compatibility issues.
- Restart your device: Sometimes a simple restart can fix issues with streaming or app performance.
- Check your internet connection: Ensure your internet connection is stable and has a fast enough speed for streaming.
- Reinstall the app: If the issue persists, uninstall and reinstall the Hotstar app to refresh its installation.
- Disable geo-restriction settings: If you’re still facing issues, make sure that your VPN is not being blocked and is set to the correct country (India).
What to watch on Hotstar
Top Shows on Hotstar
- Special OPS
- Criminal Justice
- Aarya
- City of Dreams
- The Empire
- The Mandalorian
- Bigg Boss
- Hotstar Specials: The Office (India)
- Koffee with Karan
- Ishq Mein Marjawan
Top Movies on Hotstar
- Dil Bechara
- Tumbbad
- Baaghi 3
- Angrezi Medium
- War
- Bajirao Mastani
- Chhichhore
- The Lion King (2019)
- PK
- Dangal
FAQs
Do I need a VPN to watch Hotstar in New Zealand?
Yes, to bypass geo-restrictions and access Hotstar’s Indian content, a VPN is required.
What content is available on Hotstar?
Hotstar offers a wide range of content, including Bollywood movies, TV shows, live sports like cricket and football, and Disney+ content.
Can I watch live sports on Hotstar?
Yes, Hotstar broadcasts live sports, including cricket, football, and more, especially through the Disney+ Hotstar plan.
Is there a free version of Hotstar?
Yes, Hotstar offers a free version with limited content. However, to access premium shows, movies, and sports, you’ll need a paid subscription.
How do I cancel my Hotstar subscription?
You can cancel your Hotstar subscription through your account settings on the website or app, depending on how you subscribed (via a VPN or Disney+ Hotstar on Hulu).
Conclusion
Hotstar offers a wealth of content that appeals to a wide audience, from Bollywood movies and live sports to exclusive shows and Disney+ content. While access is restricted in New Zealand, a reliable VPN service can help you bypass these geo-restrictions and unlock Hotstar’s full library in New Zealand. Whether you’re a fan of Indian cinema, cricket, or international programming, by following simple steps to set up a VPN and subscribe, you’ll be able to enjoy uninterrupted access to Hotstar’s diverse and exciting content.
