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In a surprise announcement to the UK Stock Exchange, Vodafone PLC has included New Zealand on a list of countries which will sell the much-lauded iPhone.
It is unclear whether the phone will be available in its current version, or the next-generation '3G' model, rumoured to be nearing release in the United States.
Currently, 'hacked' iPhones can be used on Vodafone's network here, although are not officially sold here. They have been available through parallel importers or internet dealers.
Apple has tied the so-called 'Jesus phone' to specific networks in a deal which means the computer giant gets a slice of user charges.
Rumours have been circulating in New Zealand connecting the iPhone with both Telecom and Telstra, while persistent reports in Australia indicated that it would be available on the Optus network.
The other countries listed in Vodafone's release are Australia, Czech Republic, Egypt, Greece, Italy, India, Portugal, South Africa and Turkey.
