Nelson Tasman Settlement Support

A Partnership between Department of Labour and Nelson City Council

Open a bank account

It is a good idea to open a bank account as soon as possible. Your employer will need a bank account number so they can put your wages directly into the account.

EFTPOS is the name for the type of transaction you make with your bank card/credit card. Most shops accept eftpos. When you make purchases with an eftpos card, the money is taken directly from your bank account and transferred to the shop’s account.

Your bank will ask you to choose a personal identification number (PIN) to keep your card secure. Do not tell anyone your PIN. If you lose your bankcard or think someone knows your PIN, contact your bank immediately using its 0800 number.

Information about banks and their policies are available at each bank and on their websites. The main banks are

  • ASB Bank
  • ANZ Bank
  • Bank of New Zealand (BNZ)
  • Kiwibank
  • National Bank
  • Westpac

You can choose which bank you want to join. Each bank sets its own fees and charges. Find a list of all banks in New Zealand.