In this guide to banking, money, and currency in New Zealand, you’ll get our best travel money tips, from finding the best exchange rates to breaking down the average prices of local goods and services. Here’s what you need to know about currency in New Zealand
While debit and credit cards are accepted in New Zealand, it’s always good to have some NewZealand banknotes on you too. Read on for all the details on navigating the local currency andbanking system in New Zealand.
- Travel Money in New Zealand: Everything You Need to Know
- New Zealand Dollar Basics
- How to Get New Zealand Dollars
- Cost of Goods and Living in New Zealand
- Importing and Exporting New Zealand Dollars
- Counterfeit New Zealand Currency
- Using US Dollars in New Zealand
- Using Credit Cards in New Zealand
- Cultural Sensitivities Around Money
- Preparing for Your New Zealand Trip
Travel Money in New Zealand: Everything You Need to Know
New Zealand Dollar Basics
- Currency Code: NZD
- Symbol: $
- Forms: Paper currency and coin
- Division: 1 dollar = 100 cents
- Countries of Use: New Zealand, Niue, Pitcairn Islands, Tokelau
Denominations
New Zealand dollars are available in two physical forms: banknotes and coins.
- Banknote denominations:$5, $10, $20, $50, and $100
- Coin denominations:10, 20, and 50 cents and $1 and $2
Due to the discontinuation of coins in the amounts of 1, 2, and 5 cents, purchases will be rounded down (for one to four cents) or up (for five to nine cents). For example, a purchase totaling $18.14 will be rounded down to $18.10, and a purchase for $20.17 will be rounded up to$20.20.
New Zealand Dollar Exchange Rate
Looking to get more bang for your buck? At the moment, the United States dollar has a favorable exchange rate with the New Zealand dollar.
The current exchange rate for USD to AUD is: US$1.00 = NZ$1.66, though it constantly fluctuates.
Because exchange rates are subject to change, it’s essential to check the rates before making any currency exchanges. Use an exchange rate calculator to check the current exchange rate, both before and during your visit to help you better track your spending. It’s also recommended to compare rates and fees at different banks and currency exchange offices to ensure you get the best exchange rate.
How to Get New Zealand Dollars
Between currency exchanges, ATMs, and local banks, it’s easy to get your hands on New Zealand dollars.
Currency Exchanges
If you prefer to get New Zealand dollars before entering the country, you can do so at airport currency exchanges or foreign currency exchanges. You can also exchange your foreign currencies at the airport upon arrival. These places charge currency-conversion fees.
Cash Advances at ATMs
ATMs are common in bank branches and at major shopping areas around New Zealand. ATM cards with a four-digit PIN (the standard in New Zealand) should usually work. It’s smart to check with your bank regarding foreign transaction fees and international ATM fees before you leave.
It’s best to only take out money in busy, well-populated areas. Practice common sense and be aware of your surroundings when making ATM withdrawals to be sure someone isn’t watching you, and examine the machine for card readers that can capture your debit cards’ data.
Exchange Currency at a Local Bank
Major banks in New Zealand include the Bank of New Zealand, ANZ, Kiwibank, ASB Bank, and Westpac. Their ATMs can be accessed before or after business hours.
Banking business hours in New Zealand can vary, but generally they are open on weekdays from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Cost of Goods and Living in New Zealand
When dining out and choosing lodging, it’s all about location. Prices vary depending on where you go—and what level of luxury you seek.
Here are the average costs of some expenses you may have as a traveler:
- Meal at a mid-range restaurant: NZ$20 to $40 per person
- Meal at a high-end restaurant: NZ$40 to $100 per person
- Meal at a cafes or casual eatery: NZ$10 to $20 per person
- Meal from a takeaway: NZ$10 to $20
- Hotel in a major city: NZ$100 to $300 (mid-range); $300 to $800 (luxury)
- Basic cabin or powered site in a holiday park: NZ$20 to $60 per night
- Accommodation in a hostel: NZ$20 to $50 per night (dormitory-style room); private rooms from around NZ$60 per night
Guided Activities
Guided walking tours range from free (but tips-based) to NZ$50 per person. Full-day guided adventure/nature tours can run NZ$100 to $300 per person; notable locations can range fromNZ$100 to $250 per person, depending on the distance traveled and whether meals or other services are included.
Day Trips
Adventure activities (bungee jumping, skydiving) can range from NZ$150 to $400 per person, depending on the activity and the provider. A full-day wine tour could cost anywhere fromNZ$150 to $250 per person.
Taxi Rides
The exact cost can vary significantly depending on the location and taxi company, but here’s arough estimate. There’s an initial tariff that can range NZ$3 to $5, along with a per-km chargethat could be between NZ$2.50 and $3. A short city ride may cost around NZ$10 to $20. Alonger ride, such as from an airport to the city center, might cost anywhere from NZ$30 to $90,depending on the city and distance.
Public Transit
Pricing varies depending upon fare zones for buses and trains, but it’s recommended to get your respective city’s prepaid card for reduced fares. While prices can differ across each city, it’s estimated to be roughly NZ$4 to $13 in cash fares; you’ll get a significant reduction if you use the prepaid card
Importing and Exporting New Zealand Dollars
There are no restrictions on the amount of cash that can be brought in or taken away from New Zealand. However, anyone who carries more than NZ$10,000 in cash (or a foreign equivalent) is required to complete a Border Cash Report.
Counterfeit New Zealand Currency
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has implemented numerous security features into the country’s banknotes to prevent counterfeiting, and these features make the country’s currency particularly difficult to replicate.
For example, New Zealand’s banknotes have holographic windows with reflective images of a fern bird, a map of New Zealand and the banknote’s monetary value. The paper money is made from a material called polymer and has raised printing, which can be felt when you run your fingers over them.
Using US Dollars in New Zealand
New Zealand accepts no currencies other than its own, the New Zealand dollar.
Using Credit Cards in New Zealand
While most major credit cards are accepted at businesses in New Zealand, Visa andMastercard are largely used. Apple Pay may also be taken as payment, but travelers checks are definitely a thing of the past.
Before traveling to New Zealand, remember to inform your credit card company where and for how long you’ll be abroad. That way your transactions won’t be marked as fraudulent, which risks you losing access to your cards while traveling.
If you opt for a cash advance, you may be subject to foreign transaction fees or currency conversion fees. Out-of-network ATM cash withdrawals can also incur a service charge.
Cultural Sensitivities Around Money
Tipping in New Zealand
Tipping in New Zealand is not obligatory, but tipping for exceptional service or kindness is at your discretion. For example, if you choose to give a tip in a restaurant, the amount is up to you, but it’s usually around 10% of the meal or service’s value.
Bargaining and Haggling
Most prices are fixed in New Zealand, especially in established retail stores, supermarkets, or restaurants, so haggling isn’t common practice when spending money.
Preparing for Your New Zealand Trip
Obtaining a visa is an essential part of planning your trip. At Entriva, we can easily and efficiently help you with every aspect of getting a New Zealand visa. Start your visa application process.
For more information on other aspects of travel to New Zealand, including local laws, health and safety, local culture and customs, and the types of visas available, visit our New Zealand content hub