New Zealand takes in tens of thousands of migrants and working holiday visitors every year. Whether you’re arriving on a skilled migrant visa, a working holiday, a student visa, or returning after years abroad — the NZ financial system has its own rules, institutions, and quirks that differ significantly from what you may be used to.
This cluster covers everything from opening a bank account before you land to what happens to your KiwiSaver if you leave.
Start Here
| Guide | Who It’s For |
|---|---|
| NZ Financial Checklist for Migrants | Everyone arriving in NZ for the first time |
| Open a Bank Account Before You Arrive | Anyone wanting a NZ account set up on arrival |
| Sending Money Home from NZ | Migrants supporting family overseas |
By Visa Type
| Guide | Visa / Situation |
|---|---|
| Working Holiday NZ — Finance Guide | Working holiday visa holders |
| Skilled Migrant NZ — Finance Guide | Skilled and accredited employer visas |
| Student Visa NZ — Living and Finance Guide | International students |
Australia ↔ New Zealand
| Guide | Topic |
|---|---|
| Transfer Australian Super to NZ KiwiSaver | Trans-Tasman super portability |
| NZ vs Australia — Financial Comparison | Which country is better for your finances? |
Leaving NZ
| Guide | Topic |
|---|---|
| Leaving NZ — Financial Checklist | KiwiSaver, tax residency, bank accounts and more |
NZ Financial System at a Glance
IRD number: Your tax identity number. Get one immediately — you can’t earn legally, open most bank accounts, or join KiwiSaver without it.
KiwiSaver: NZ’s workplace retirement savings scheme. Employer contributions of 3% are effectively free money — most migrants should join.
ACC: The Accident Compensation Corporation covers injury-related medical costs and lost income for everyone in NZ (including temporary visa holders). You contribute automatically via a levy on your earnings.
Banks: The main banks are ANZ, ASB, BNZ, Westpac, and Kiwibank. Several offer pre-arrival account opening for migrants.
Tax: NZ uses a PAYE (pay-as-you-earn) system. Your employer deducts income tax before you receive your pay. There is no capital gains tax, but foreign investment income has specific rules.