Set up your finances right from day one. Banking, KiwiSaver, insurance, mortgages — everything you need before and after you arrive.
New Zealand has a stable, modern banking system. Opening an account before you arrive saves hassle and gets you paid faster.
ANZ, ASB, BNZ, Westpac and Kiwibank all allow overseas migrants to open accounts before landing. You need your passport, visa and proof of address.
NZ is nearly cashless. Eftpos is the standard debit system — most shops, markets and transport accept it. Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely supported.
Use Wise, OFX or your bank's international transfer service to move money from your home country. Wise typically offers the best exchange rates.
NZ credit history does not transfer from overseas. Start with a secured credit card or store card to build your local credit profile quickly.
KiwiSaver is NZ's workplace superannuation. Most employees are automatically enrolled and the government contributes too.
You contribute 3%, 4%, 6%, 8% or 10% of your gross wage. Your employer adds a minimum 3% on top. The government adds up to $521 per year if you contribute at least $1,042.
If you do not choose a provider, you are assigned one. Take 30 minutes to compare — fees and performance vary significantly.
NZ has public accident cover through ACC, but health, life and contents insurance are privately arranged.
NZ's public health system is excellent but wait times for non-urgent treatment can be long. Private insurance gives faster access and specialist choice.
Renters need contents insurance. Homeowners need both building and contents. Earthquake risk is real in NZ — check your EQC cover.
Third-party is the minimum recommended. ACC covers personal injury but not vehicle damage or third-party property.
ACC covers accidents but not illness. Income protection covers up to 75% of salary if you cannot work due to sickness or injury.
Term life is affordable in NZ — especially important if you have a mortgage or dependants. Rates are best secured when you are young and healthy.
ACC covers treatment and partial income for ALL accidents in NZ — work, home, sport, road. Free at point of use for everyone in NZ.
The NZ property market moves fast. Understand mortgages, deposits and the buying process before you start.
Most migrants can buy on a work visa. Permanent residents and citizens have full access.
Standard deposit is 20% for existing homes. Some lenders accept 10% for new builds.
Mortgage pre-approval tells you your budget before you start searching.
Use TradeMe Property or Realestate.co.nz, or work with a buyer's agent.
Builder's report, LIM report, title search. Budget $1,500–$2,500 for these.
A solicitor handles settlement. Keys typically 4–6 weeks after going unconditional.
Our licensed advisers help migrants set up banking, KiwiSaver and insurance correctly — saving time, mistakes and money.
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