Yes, credit cards are widely accepted throughout New Zealand. Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, including hotels, restaurants, fuel stations, attractions and retail stores. American Express is also accepted by many businesses, although not as widely as Visa and Mastercard. Most travellers can comfortably explore New Zealand using a credit card for the majority of their purchases.
New Zealand is one of the easiest countries in the world to travel around without carrying large amounts of cash.
Whether you're exploring Auckland, enjoying Māori cultural experiences in Rotorua, taking a scenic cruise in Milford Sound or sampling food and wine experiences in Hawke's Bay, card payments are accepted almost everywhere.
Which credit cards are accepted in New Zealand?
The most commonly accepted cards are:
- Visa
- Mastercard
Many businesses also accept:
- American Express
- UnionPay
Visa and Mastercard provide the broadest acceptance throughout the country, including in smaller towns and rural areas.
Can I use contactless payments?
Yes.
Contactless payment methods are widely available across New Zealand.
This includes:
- Tap-and-go credit cards
- Apple Pay
- Google Pay
- Samsung Pay
Many visitors complete their entire trip without needing to use physical cash.
Do businesses charge a credit card surcharge?
Sometimes.
Some businesses apply a small surcharge to credit card transactions to help cover processing costs.
These surcharges typically range from 1% to 3%.
They are most commonly found at:
- Restaurants
- Cafés
- Hotels
- Tourism operators
Businesses are generally required to clearly display any surcharge before payment is made.
You can learn more in our guide to additional charges for using a credit card.
Should I bring cash to New Zealand?
A small amount can be useful, but most travellers don't need much.
Credit and debit cards are accepted at:
- Accommodation providers
- Restaurants
- Supermarkets
- Fuel stations
- Attractions
- Retail stores
Even in destinations such as Queenstown, Lake Tekapo, Kaikōura and the Bay of Islands, cash is rarely essential.
Some travellers like to carry a small amount of New Zealand currency for markets, rural locations or emergencies.
Can I withdraw cash from ATMs?
Yes.
ATMs are readily available throughout New Zealand, including airports, shopping centres and town centres.
Most international debit and credit cards work in New Zealand ATMs, although your bank may charge foreign transaction fees.
Will my rental car company require a credit card?
Usually.
Most rental car companies require a credit card in the primary driver's name for security deposits and vehicle collection.
If you don't have a credit card, it's worth checking the supplier's requirements before travelling.
You may also find our guide to paying without a credit card helpful.
What currency will my credit card be charged in?
Transactions in New Zealand are processed in New Zealand Dollars (NZD).
Your card provider will convert the amount into your home currency using its exchange rate and any applicable international transaction fees.
For more information, see our guide to what currency can be used in New Zealand.