Open a Bank Account

Most of New Zealand's major banks have services specifically designed for migrants and banking consultants who are experienced in dealing with new Kiwis! You'll find a bank in just about every town and city in New Zealand, which makes banking services very accessible.

New Zealand has a very modern banking system. For a small fee, you can also request on-line banking to give you secure, password protected access to your accounts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can use on-line banking to do things like transfer money, pay bills and request assistance from your bank.

New Zealand has a number of different banks which offer different accounts and fee structures so it is advisable to "shop around" and compare what the different banks offer so you are getting the best products for your situation. 

The easiest and most common way to access your funds is with an EFTPOS card. Cards can be used to purchase anything from coffee to your grocery items at the supermarket, and you can use them to draw cash out of banks' Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs). Note: If you withdraw money from a bank ATM that is not your own bank, you are likely to be charged a fee of about NZ 50 cents.

Banks are open 9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday. For more information about banking services in New Zealand, talk to the National Bank or visit any of the major banks' web sites below.

The National Bank of New Zealand

Open your New Zealand Bank account with The National Bank before you leave the UK, so your funds are ready for access when you arrive in New Zealand.

We are one of New Zealand's most recognised and respected brands, offering a range of banking services for personal, business and rural customers. Opening an account and arranging your finances with The National Bank before you leave the UK is one of the best moves you can make. We have specialist Migrant Banking Teams based both in NZ and the UK to help you every step of the way - it's all part of the service.

The National Bank is one of the largest banks in New Zealand with an extensive Branch network and hundreds of ATM's. Contact one of our migrant banking representatives in New Zealand on +64 9 3599 820 or email migrantbanking@nationalbank.co.nz

Other Major Banks

Westpac
Bank of New Zealand
ASB
Kiwi Bank
ANZ

You can also contact Mortgage Mate, who can give you advice about selecting the right lender and insurance company for your needs.

Transferring Your Funds to NZ

Once you've opened your bank account, you will need to transfer your funds to New Zealand. Most banks offer a foreign exchange service. However, make sure you shop around to get the best deal.

World First is a foreign exchange company that specialises in helping private individuals send money abroad, particularly in relation to foreign investments, property purchases, working, emigrating or retiring abroad. 

With World First you will be working with a specialist foreign exchange broker for all your currency transactions. You will benefit from commercial exchange rates, coupled with exceptional service to allow you to manage exchange rate risk. Click here for more information or watch a video of World First's latest Daily Currency Update.