The currency of New Zealand is the New Zealand Dollar. New Zealand banks and post offices offer foreign exchange services and most have currency exchange calculators on their websites.
It is a good idea to open a bank account as soon as possible. Employers will need a bank account number in order to bank wages directly. Banks usually ask for three forms of identification, one of which should have a photo on it, for example, passport or overseas driver’s licence.
Banks offer different fee structures for transactions. Talk to several before deciding which bank best suits your needs. Information about banks and their policies is available at individual bank branches or on their web sites.
The main banks are:
| Bank | Telephone | Website |
| ASB | 0800 803 804 | www.asb.co.nz |
| ANZ | 0800 269 296 | www.anz.co.nz |
| BNZ | 0800 800 468 | www.bnz.co.nz |
| Kiwibank | 0800 133 355 | www.kiwibank.co.nz |
| National Bank | 0800 18 1818 | www.nationalbank.co.nz |
| TSB Bank | 0508 872 2265 | www.tsbbank.co.nz |
| Westpac | 0800 400 600 | www.westpac.co.nz |
All banks, by law, must have a process that allows customers to make complaints. If you have a problem, you can ask to speak to the complaints officer. If you are not happy with the way your complaint has been handled, you can ask the Banking Ombudsman for help. This service is free.
Banking Ombudsman
Free phone: 0800 805 950
Fax: (04) 471 0548
Email: help@bankombudsman.org.nz
Website: www.bankombudsman.org.nz