Opening a NZ Bank Account as a Working Holidaymaker

Most NZ employers pay by direct deposit, not cash — you need a working NZ bank account before you can be paid, which makes it one of the first things to sort out after you land.

What you need

Before you arrive or after?

Immigration New Zealand’s own guidance is: “Some banks allow you to open a bank account from your home country, although this may depend on your visa and when you will arrive.” In practice, this varies a lot by bank and changes over time — some let you start the process online and land with a working account number, others require you to walk into a branch in person once you’re here. Check directly with your chosen bank’s website before assuming either way.

New Zealand’s major retail banks are ANZ, ASB, BNZ, Kiwibank, and Westpac. All are registered with the Reserve Bank of New Zealand — you can confirm any bank’s registration on the Reserve Bank’s website if you want to double-check before committing.

The address problem

You’ll usually be asked for a permanent NZ address to finish setting up your account, but most working holidaymakers don’t have one on day one — you’ve just landed and are staying in a hostel. Ask your chosen bank directly what they accept in the meantime; options can include a hostel or temporary address to get started, followed by an update once you have something permanent, or a letter from an employer confirming your details. This differs by bank, so confirm before you arrive if it matters to your plan.

What order to do things in

1. Research banks before you land and see which one offers the smoothest start for your situation — some are set up better for temporary visa holders than others.
2. Start the application online if your bank allows it, so less is left to do once you’re jet-lagged and busy.
3. Bring your passport and visa documents to any in-person step.
4. Get your IRD number sorted around the same time — see our IRD number guide — since some banks want one and employers need it before they can pay you.
5. Give your account details to your employer as soon as you have them, alongside your IRD number and tax code declaration.

Where to go next

• Getting your IRD number
• Your first week in New Zealand: exact to-do list
• How much money you need for a working holiday in NZ
• Transferring money to New Zealand: fees compared

This page is general information, not financial advice. Confirm current requirements directly with your chosen bank and with Immigration New Zealand.