shelloid

we're currently in temp accommodation and so are having to use mobiles to call the UK.

On 2 degrees (pay as you go), we're getting 22c per minute to the UK. But I think you can get it cheaper on vodafone - I think I remember seeing $2 for 60mins but not sure on the conditions of that one.
Haven't looked into deals you can get on contracts on mobiles, as we were refused a contract given that we're currently on a temp 9 month WTR whilst fulfilling the criteria for PR.

Jo_Paul87

Thanks for all your info, there seems so many options, I dont think 2 of you used the same system, it looks like I will be spending a few more hours researching some of these options on the internet.

AKT

We use Skype and/or mobiles.

Currently Vodafone do $2 for 60 mins to a UK landline, but in theory they could change that at any time as it is a special offer (but has been going for around 12 months and previously ran for 3-4 months in 2008). We have a skype subscription which gives us 3 incoming numbers from a few different countries (inc the UK) so people call us for the cost of a UK call. and a Skype-to-go number, which allows us to call a local number (free in NZ) and then either speed-dial or type in any number to call. The landline calls are included with the subscription.

So with Skype after it's set up, you don't need a pc at all for calls and the luddites in the UK can just use a normal phone, although it took a while to persuade my 82y.o. aunt that she would only be charged a local call rate to phone NZ...

With Skype phones, I would be wary as they are expensive and you need a PC to set them up, it is then also a second phone, personally I'd use the cash for a subscription as above.

In theory the Skype calling is unlimited but they do have a fair use policy, I don't know what it is but suspect it's 'fair'. Their customer service is appalling if you ever have the misfortune to need it.

We also use T-Mobile UK PAYG sim as you can send picture messages or MMS text messages for 20p a pop and incoming messages are free.

HTH

A

Zootalaws

We are in the UK, we have set up a skype phone line in NZ for our kids and folks to ring us. Fpr £40 a year you get a dedicated phone number that anyone can ring. We got a Wellington number because most of our family are there.
In the UK we invested in a Skype WiFi phone - no computer needed. It works really well - apart from the odd Kiwi ringing us in the middle of the night!

We are moving back to NZ sometime soon - with a 2 year interlude in Brunei in between by the looks of it. We will get a UK number for our friends and family here to ring us.

We can ring out as well, about £0.012 per minute to NZ/Aus/US, etc.

The quality is usually great - sometimes it can be a bit echoey, usually when its school holidays in NZ and the kids are all hammering the internet. Other than that, great service.

Zootalaws

No you don't.

We paid £55 for our wireless Belkin Skype WiFi phone - all you need is access to a wifi signal, no computer needed.

Works great. We take it out with us if we are expecting overseas calls - it's surprising the number of free wifi sites in the UK - most coffee shops, a lot of pubs, McDonalds etc.

AKT

Can you set up a skype account with the phone? They have clearly moved on since I last looked.

A

Zootalaws

Yes, you can register a new account - you obviously need to go to a computer if you want to register for additional services like Phone lines, etc.