GTA 6 is almost here, here's everything Kiwis need to know

Rockstar Games is finally releasing Grand Theft Auto 6 on November 19, 2026, taking players back to Vice City after a whopping 13-year wait since GTA 5.

Yep, it's actually happening. After multiple delays and years of speculation, we're officially counting down the days. And judging by the latest visuals of Vice City's Miami-inspired skyline, beaches and waterfronts, the game is looking pretty bloody crisp.

Here's everything you need to know before launch.

When does GTA 6 come out in NZ?

Thursday, November 19, 2026 is the big day, with both PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S players able to jump into the game from midnight NZ time.

However, there's a slight difference when it comes to downloading the game early.

PS5 players can start pre-downloading from midnight on November 10, while Xbox Series X/S players will have to wait until 1pm that same day. So PS5 owners get a 13-hour head start on the download, but don't worry Xbox fans, both consoles unlock the actual game at exactly the same time on November 19th.

What consoles can you play it on?

GTA 6 is launching on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S.

If you're still rocking a PS4 or Xbox One, unfortunately you're out of luck.

PC gamers will also have to wait, with no confirmed release date just yet.

How much will GTA 6 cost?

GTA 6 will set Kiwi gamers back roughly $119 NZD, with both JB Hi-Fi and The Warehouse listing the Standard Edition for pre-order at that price on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S.

There's one catch, though. You can’t buy a physical disc. Instead, you'll get a box containing a digital download code, meaning you'll still need to download the game.

JB Hi-Fi is also running a pre-order competition, giving customers the chance to win one of five $500 JB Hi-Fi gift cards.

And if you're keen to splash out a little more, GTA 6-themed limited-edition PS5 controllers are listed at The Warehouse for $149.99 each.

When can you pre-download GTA 6?

PS5 players can start pre-downloading from midnight on November 10, while Xbox Series X/S players will have to wait until 1pm that same day. 

How much storage will you need?

Quite a bit, actually.

The reported storage requirement is up to 212GB, depending on your console.

That's a decent chunk of space, so now might be the time to delete those games you keep telling yourself you'll finish one day.

What about GTA 6 Online?

Online multiplayer isn't expected to be available at launch, with a separate release tipped for sometime in 2027.

For now, the focus is on exploring Leonida, the fictional Florida-inspired state that includes Vice City.

Rockstar is also reportedly releasing a free printable map of Leonida on launch day.

Thirteen years is a ridiculous amount of time to wait for a game, but we're nearly there.

Clear some storage, check your internet connection and maybe get that leave request in before everyone else does.