Banking, Money and Taxes in New Zealand
The New Zealand banking system is sophisticated, comprehensive and offers high levels of customer service. The main banks are ANZ/Postbank, Bank of New Zealand, The National Bank (a subsidiary of Lloyds) Trustbank, Westpac ASB (Auckland Savings Bank) and Countrywide (a subsidiary of Bank of Scotland). The requirements to open an account vary but it will be a simple matter if you have a bank reference and bank draft from your originating country. Visa and Mastercard are accepted everywhere and there are plenty of ATMs which can draw on foreign funds with a debit or credit card.
Expats that are resident in New Zealand for more than 183 days per year are liable for tax on their worldwide income although double tax agreements with a wide range of countries prevent any potential double taxation.
