Android Mobile New Zealand has heard from an ASUS representative that the budget Nexus 7 tablet will be available from retail stores in New Zealand for $439 NZD ($353 USD) from mid-July. Only the 16 GB model will be available as the cheaper 8 GB model will remain exclusive to the Google Play Store.

What makes this particularly interesting is that this is the first time we have heard reports of the tablet being available outside of the United Kindgom, United States, Canada or Australia – whether it's through the Google Play Store or through retail stores. This means that ASUS likely has the intention to bring the Nexus 7 to market wherever it has a strong retail presence. This follows rumours of the tablet being sold in France for €249 ($314 USD).

If you are wanting a Nexus 7 for yourself but are worried by the associated high import costs, then waiting a couple of weeks to hear if the tablet is headed to your nation through official retail channels would be a wise choice.

KitGuru says: And with widespread availability it instantly conquers Amazon's Kindle Fire that is only available in the United States.

Become a Patron!