New Zealand’s credit card market offers consumers a solid range of options, from low-rate cards ideal for those who occasionally carry a balance to rewards cards that earn Airpoints or cashback on everyday spending. Choosing the right card for your lifestyle can save you money and earn you meaningful rewards each year.
Best Rewards Credit Cards in New Zealand
Air New Zealand Airpoints Credit Cards
Airpoints is New Zealand’s most popular rewards currency, and several banks offer co-branded cards with Air New Zealand. The ANZ Airpoints Visa, ASB Airpoints Visa and BNZ Airpoints Visa all earn Airpoints Dollars on purchases. For frequent Air New Zealand flyers, these cards offer genuine value, particularly if you travel regularly between New Zealand and Australia or further afield.
Airpoints Dollars earned on credit card spending can be used toward flights, upgrades and other Air New Zealand products. The earn rate varies by card tier and annual fee.
ASB Visa Rewards
ASB’s rewards credit card earns True Rewards dollars on purchases, redeemable with a range of New Zealand retailers and for cash back to your ASB account. For those who prefer flexible redemption over airline miles, a cashback-style rewards program offers clear, straightforward value.
Best Low Rate Credit Cards in New Zealand
Kiwibank Low Rate Visa
Kiwibank, New Zealand’s government-owned bank, offers a low rate credit card with a competitive ongoing interest rate below the standard rates charged by most banks. As a New Zealand institution, Kiwibank is trusted by many New Zealanders who prefer to bank locally. The card has a modest annual fee and straightforward terms.
TSB Low Rate Visa
TSB (formerly Taranaki Savings Bank) offers competitive low-rate credit cards to New Zealanders. TSB has a strong reputation for customer service and offers a credit card with a lower purchase rate than the major Australian-owned banks typically charge in New Zealand.
Best No Annual Fee Credit Cards in New Zealand
Several New Zealand banks offer credit cards with no annual fee for the first year or permanently, particularly for customers who also hold their main transaction and savings accounts with the same bank.
Credit Card Interest Rates in New Zealand
Standard purchase rates on New Zealand credit cards typically range from 19 to 22 percent per annum. Low-rate cards generally charge 12 to 14 percent. These rates make carrying a balance expensive, reinforcing why paying in full each month should be the default approach for New Zealand cardholders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best credit card in NZ for travel?
For Air New Zealand domestic and Trans-Tasman travel, an Airpoints credit card from ANZ, ASB or BNZ offers the most relevant rewards. Ensure the annual fee is justified by your Airpoints earnings.
Do NZ credit cards charge foreign transaction fees?
Most New Zealand credit cards charge foreign transaction fees of 1.5 to 2.5 percent on purchases made in foreign currencies. Cards marketed as travel-friendly sometimes waive these fees.
How do I build a credit history in NZ?
Open a credit card, use it for small regular purchases and pay the full balance each month. Consistent, responsible credit card use over 12 to 24 months builds a positive credit profile.
Can I use my NZ credit card overseas?
Yes. Visa and Mastercard credit cards issued in New Zealand are accepted worldwide. Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid your card being blocked for suspicious international activity.
This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.