For people already living in New Zealand, opening a bank account mostly comes down to identity verification. This page covers what you need and how it works. If you’re moving to NZ or arriving on a visa, see opening a NZ bank account before you arrive.
To open a bank account in NZ you need a valid photo ID (passport or NZ driver licence) plus proof of address. Most banks offer online account opening, usually set up within 1 to 3 business days. New arrivals have their own options, covered in [opening a NZ bank account before you arrive](/personal-finance/moving-to-nz/open-bank-account-before-arriving-nz/).
What You Need to Open a Bank Account
New Zealand’s Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act (AML/CFT) 2009 requires all banks to verify your identity before opening an account.
For NZ Residents and Citizens
You need two pieces of documentation — one photo ID and one proof of address:
| Document type | Accepted examples |
|---|---|
| Photo ID (one required) | NZ driver licence, NZ passport, overseas passport |
| Proof of address (one required) | Utility bill, bank statement, IRD letter, rates notice — dated within 3 months |
The bank will also ask for your IRD number, for tax on interest earned (see below).
For Visa Holders and New Arrivals
Banks ask new arrivals for a passport, visa and a NZ or temporary address, and some let you start the application before you land. The documents and each bank’s pre-arrival options are in opening a NZ bank account before you arrive.
Online vs In-Branch Account Opening
Online Account Opening
Most major NZ banks now offer full online account opening — the fastest route for most people.
| Bank | Online opening | Estimated time |
|---|---|---|
| ANZ | Yes | 1–2 business days |
| ASB | Yes | Same day to 1 business day |
| BNZ | Yes | 1–2 business days |
| Westpac | Yes | 1–2 business days |
| Kiwibank | Yes | 1–3 business days |
How online verification works: Upload photos of your documents, then complete a live video ID check or use a verification service (such as RealMe). Some banks use automated biometric matching against your passport photo.
In-Branch Opening
Walk into any branch with your documents and open an account on the spot. Useful when:
- You’re having trouble with online ID verification
- You have non-standard documents
- You prefer face-to-face assistance
- You need to collect a banker’s card on the day
Special Situations
New Arrivals and International Students
Without a NZ address yet, banks accept documents such as an employer letter or an accommodation confirmation, and international students also need their student visa and enrolment letter. These cases are covered in opening a NZ bank account before you arrive and banks for new arrivals.
Children’s Accounts
For children under 18, a parent or guardian opens the account jointly. Required:
- Parent/guardian photo ID and proof of address
- Child’s birth certificate or passport
The Account Opening Process, Step by Step
- Choose a bank: compare NZ banks or read the ANZ vs ASB vs BNZ vs Westpac comparison
- Gather documents: photo ID, proof of address and IRD number
- Apply online or visit a branch
- Complete identity verification: an online check or an in-person review
- Receive account details, typically by email within 1 to 3 business days
- Activate internet banking and mobile app
- Receive your debit card, usually within 3 to 7 business days
IRD Number: When Do You Need It?
You don’t need an IRD number to open an account, but without one, banks are required to deduct Resident Withholding Tax (RWT) at the highest rate (45%) on any interest earned. Add it as soon as you have it.
IRD numbers are applied for through ird.govt.nz.
Understanding NZ Account Numbers
NZ bank account numbers have a standard 15–16 digit format:
XX-XXXX-XXXXXXX-XX
- 2 digits — bank code (e.g., 01 = ANZ, 03 = Westpac, 06 = BNZ, 12 = ASB, 38 = Kiwibank)
- 4 digits — branch code
- 7 digits — account number
- 2–3 digits — account suffix (00 for everyday, 00–50 for savings)
You’ll give this number to your employer for payroll and to anyone who needs to pay you.
After Opening Your Account
- Set up internet banking and the mobile app
- Confirm your account number and double-check it before sharing with your employer
- A savings account can be opened alongside your everyday account; see savings accounts NZ
- Bank transfers overseas and money transfer services such as Wise charge different fees and exchange rates; see international transfers NZ
Next Steps
- Opening a NZ bank account before you arrive: for migrants and new arrivals
- Banks for new arrivals NZ
- Compare NZ banks: the major banks compared
- Banking fees NZ: account and transaction fees
- Savings accounts NZ: set up a savings account from day one