
New Zealand's currency is the New Zealand dollar (NZD), denoted by the symbol $. It's the country's official currency and is divided into 100 cents.
The New Zealand dollar is available in various denominations, including coins ranging from 10 cents to $2, and banknotes ranging from $5 to $100. I've personally seen these denominations in use during my travels to New Zealand.
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand is responsible for issuing and managing the country's currency. It's interesting to note that the bank has a unique way of printing banknotes, using advanced security features to prevent counterfeiting.
Additional reading: Costa Rican Colón Coins and Banknotes
Introduction
Prior to the introduction of the New Zealand dollar in 1967, the New Zealand pound was the currency of New Zealand, which had been distinct from the pound sterling since 1933.
The pound used the £sd system, a system which by the 1950s was considered complicated and cumbersome.
Decimal currency had been proposed in New Zealand since the 1930s, but it wasn't until the 1950s that any plans came to fruition.
The idea of decimal currency fell on fertile ground, and in 1963, the Government decided to decimalise New Zealand currency.
The Decimal Currency Act was passed in 1964, setting the date of transition to 10 July 1967.
27 million new banknotes were printed and 165 million new coins were minted for the changeover.
The New Zealand dollar was introduced to replace the pound at a rate of two dollars to one pound.
Currency Overview
New Zealand's currency is used in several countries, including New Zealand, Cook Islands, Niue, Pitcairn Islands, and Tokelau.
The New Zealand Dollar is divided into coins and banknotes. The coins in circulation include the 10c, 20c, 50c, $1, and $2 denominations. The 10c coin, for example, is made of copper-plated steel and features Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse side.
The banknotes in circulation are used less frequently than the coins, and they come in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100. The Reserve Bank of New Zealand is responsible for managing the country's currency.
Discover more: Banknotes of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands
Here is a summary of the coins in circulation:
Name
The New Zealand dollar was introduced in 1967 to replace the New Zealand pound. Prior to this, the New Zealand pound was distinct from the pound sterling since 1933.
The pound used the £sd system, which was considered complicated and cumbersome by the 1950s. This system was divided into 20 shillings, with one shilling further divided into 12 pence.
Decimal currency had been proposed in New Zealand since the 1930s, but plans only came to fruition in the 1950s. In 1957, a committee was set up by the Government to investigate decimal currency.
The Decimal Currency Act was passed in 1964, setting the date of transition to 10 July 1967. On this day, the New Zealand dollar was introduced to replace the pound at a rate of two dollars to one pound.
Some 27 million new banknotes were printed and 165 million new coins were minted for the changeover.
Dollar Stats
The New Zealand Dollar is a widely used currency, and understanding its stats can be helpful when traveling or doing business in the country. The official symbol for the New Zealand Dollar is $, and it's divided into 100 cents.
One cent is the smallest unit of currency in New Zealand, making it easy to calculate prices. The top conversion for the New Zealand Dollar is to the US Dollar, which is a popular currency for international transactions.
For your interest: Series B Banknotes
New Dollar Profile
The New Zealand dollar has a fascinating history. It was introduced on July 10, 1967, replacing the New Zealand pound at a rate of two dollars to one pound.
The transition to decimal currency was a significant change, with 27 million new banknotes printed and 165 million new coins minted. This was a massive undertaking, but it paved the way for the modern currency we use today.
The current circulating coins in New Zealand include the 10c, 20c, 50c, $1, and $2 coins. Each of these coins has its own unique features, such as the 10c coin being made of copper-plated steel and featuring a plain edge.

The most recent issue of New Zealand banknotes is the seventh series, first released in October 2015 and May 2016. These banknotes feature images of notable New Zealanders, such as Edmund Hillary and Kate Sheppard, as well as iconic New Zealand scenes.
Here's a breakdown of the current circulating banknotes:
The New Zealand dollar is used in New Zealand, as well as several other Pacific island nations, including the Cook Islands, Niue, Pitcairn Islands, and Tokelau. The Reserve Bank of New Zealand is responsible for managing the currency.
For your interest: Cook Islands Dollar
Coins and Banknotes
New Zealand's currency is made up of coins and banknotes, both of which are produced by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. The most commonly used coins are the 10c, 20c, 50c, $1, and $2 denominations.
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand updated the currency in 2015 with even more bright colors and improved security features, making polymer bills more secure against counterfeiting. Polymer bills are also estimated to last four times longer than regular linen or paper banknotes.
A fresh viewpoint: Reserve Bank of New Zealand
The most commonly used banknotes are the $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 denominations, each featuring a unique design and security features. These banknotes are made of polymer and are designed to be durable and long-lasting.
Here's a breakdown of the most commonly used coins and banknotes in New Zealand:
New Zealand's currency is widely accepted in the country, as well as in the Cook Islands, Niue, Pitcairn Islands, and Tokelau.
You might enjoy: Falkland Islands Pound
Coins
Coins are an essential part of New Zealand's currency, and understanding them can be helpful when making purchases or receiving change.
New Zealand's coins have undergone significant changes over the years, with the introduction of the dollar in 1967 bringing new denominations, including the 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, and 50c coins.
The 1c and 2c coins were made of bronze, while the others were cupro-nickel, with the 5c, 10c, and 20c coins being the same size as their British counterparts. The obverse designs of all coins featured Queen Elizabeth II's portrait.
The coins were demonetised on April 30, 1990, with the lack of 1c and 2c coins leading to cash transactions being rounded to the nearest 5c, a process known as Swedish rounding.
Here's a summary of New Zealand's current circulating coins:
Current Circulating Banknotes
The current circulating banknotes in New Zealand are from the seventh series, released in October 2015 and May 2016.
The most notable feature of these banknotes is their unique designs, which showcase the country's natural beauty and notable figures. Each denomination has a distinct main colour, ranging from orange to red.
The $5 note features Edmund Hillary, a famous New Zealander who conquered Mount Everest, on the obverse side. The reverse side shows a scene from Campbell Island, complete with a hoiho (yellow-eyed penguin) and a Ross lily.
The $10 note is dedicated to Kate Sheppard, a key figure in the women's suffrage movement in New Zealand. The obverse side features a portrait of Kate, while the reverse side showcases a river scene with a whio (blue duck) and a blechnum fern.

The $20 note features Elizabeth II, the Queen of New Zealand, on the obverse side, along with an image of the New Zealand Parliament Buildings. The reverse side shows a New Zealand alpine scene, complete with a kārearea (New Zealand falcon) and a Marlborough rock daisy.
Here's a summary of the current circulating banknotes in New Zealand:
New Banknotes
New Zealand has introduced a new series of banknotes, known as the seventh series, which was first released in October 2015 and May 2016. The new series features five denominations: $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100.
The $5 banknote features a portrait of Edmund Hillary on the obverse, while the reverse shows a scene of Campbell Island, complete with a hoiho (yellow-eyed penguin) and other native flora and fauna. The $10 banknote, meanwhile, features Kate Sheppard on the obverse and a river scene with a whio (blue duck) on the reverse.
The new series also includes a $20 banknote featuring Elizabeth II on the obverse, with a scene of the New Zealand Parliament Buildings. The $50 banknote features Āpirana Ngata on the obverse, with a conifer broadleaf forest scene on the reverse. The $100 banknote features Ernest Rutherford on the obverse, with a beech forest scene on the reverse.
You might like: 10 Swiss Francs Banknote
Here is a summary of the new banknotes:
The new banknotes are made of polymer, a more durable material that can withstand wear and tear. They are also designed to be more secure against counterfeiting, with improved security features.
Exchange and Trade
Exchange rates for the New Zealand dollar can be found on exchange rate tables, which show the current rates for various currencies. For example, the table shows that 1 NZD is equivalent to 0.56105 USD, 0.90295 AUD, and 0.45850 GBP.
Beware of bad exchange rates, as banks and traditional providers often mark up the exchange rate, passing the extra costs on to you. Our smart tech means we're more efficient, which means you get a great rate every time.
You can exchange your New Zealand currency for other currencies, including the British Pound, Israeli Shekel, and Japanese Yen, among others. The article lists various exchange options, including NZD to BGN, NZD to JPY, and NZD to ILS.
Here's a quick reference table of some exchange rates:
Exchange Rates
The New Zealand dollar has a rich history, and its value has fluctuated over the years due to various economic factors. The dollar was initially pegged to the British pound sterling and the United States dollar at a rate of NZ$1 = UK£1⁄2 = US$1.40.
In 1971, the US devalued its dollar relative to gold, leading New Zealand to peg its dollar at US$1.216 with a 4.5% fluctuation range. The dollar's value was later determined from a trade-weighted basket of currencies from 1973 to 1985.
The New Zealand dollar was floated on the market in 1985, and its value has been determined by the financial markets ever since. The dollar's post-float low was US$0.3922 on 22 November 2000, and it reached a post-float high on 9 July 2014 of US$0.8821.
The Reserve Bank intervened in the markets in 2007 by selling an unknown amount of New Zealand dollars for nine billion USD, attempting to drive down its value. However, the intervention was not as successful as expected, and the dollar rose to new post-float highs.
Here are some current exchange rates for the New Zealand dollar:
These rates are subject to change and may not reflect the current market value. It's always a good idea to check the latest rates before making any transactions.
Here's an interesting read: Bank of New Zealand Mortgage Rates
Australia

Australia plays a significant role in New Zealand's economy, ranking as its second-largest trading partner behind China.
The neighboring country accounts for 6.2% of New Zealand's imports in 2023, highlighting the strong economic ties between the two nations.
Australia's economy has a substantial impact on the New Zealand dollar, making it a crucial factor to consider when evaluating the currency's performance.
Intriguing read: 1943 S Steel Penny Value 2023
Economic Factors
New Zealand's economy is heavily influenced by its natural resources and industries. Agriculture, dairy, forestry, fishing, mining, and tourism are the country's top industries.
The country's reliance on these industries can significantly impact the value of the New Zealand dollar. For instance, a rise in milk prices would likely benefit the NZD, considering New Zealand is one of the world's largest exporters of whole milk powder.
Tourism, which accounted for about 3% of the country's GDP in March 2022, is another significant factor. This is a decrease from 5.5% before the COVID-19 pandemic, showing the impact of global events on the economy.
Curious to learn more? Check out: 5 Pound Banknote
Factors That Influence
New Zealand's economy is heavily reliant on its natural resources, with top industries including agriculture, dairy, forestry, fishing, mining, and tourism.
The country's largest export is whole milk powder, making it a significant contributor to the economy.
Tourism accounted for about 3% of the country's GDP in March 2022, a decrease from 5.5% before the COVID-19 pandemic.
The discovery of a COVID-19 case in New Zealand in August 2020 had a significant impact on the economy, causing the kiwi to fall 1.5% to $0.69 on August 17, 2020.
Intriguing read: List of Country That Use Euro Currency
Reserve Bank's Impact
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand's (RBNZ) impact on the economy is significant, and its decisions have a direct effect on the country's currency. The RBNZ holds monetary policy meetings seven times a year.
One of the key responsibilities of the RBNZ is to maintain price stability, which means keeping inflation under control. This is crucial for a country's economy as high inflation can erode the purchasing power of its citizens.
You might enjoy: Omani Rial Country
The RBNZ also sets interest rates, which can either stimulate or slow down economic growth. For example, if interest rates are low, it can make borrowing money cheaper and encourage people to spend and invest.
The RBNZ monitors exchange rates, which can affect the country's trade and tourism industries. A strong currency can make exports more expensive and harder to sell, while a weak currency can make imports cheaper but also increase the cost of living.
What Does a Floating Currency Mean?
A floating currency is one with value that is permitted to change as it's compared to other currencies. This means that the exchange rate can fluctuate freely on the foreign exchange market.
The value of a floating currency can be influenced by various economic factors, such as supply and demand.
Travel and Finance
If you're planning a trip to New Zealand, it's a good idea to buy your travel money in advance. You can buy New Zealand dollars online at Post Office.
To get the best deal, it's worth checking the GBP to New Zealand dollar exchange rate beforehand. This will help you avoid any unexpected fees.
You can order your New Zealand dollars online and pick them up in branch the next working day. This is a convenient option if you don't have time to visit the Post Office in person.
Here are some options for buying New Zealand dollars:
- Buy New Zealand dollars online at Post Office
- Check the GBP to New Zealand dollar exchange rate for the best deal
- Order your New Zealand dollars online and pick up in branch the next working day
It's worth noting that branch rates may differ from online rates, so it's always a good idea to check before making a purchase.
Buy Travel Money
If you're planning a trip to New Zealand, you'll need to buy some local currency, New Zealand dollars. You can buy New Zealand dollars online at the Post Office.
Check the exchange rate before making a purchase to ensure you're getting the best deal. The exchange rate for GBP to New Zealand dollars may vary depending on the amount and currency.
You can order your New Zealand dollars online and pick them up in branch the next working day, making it a convenient option for those short on time.
Here's an interesting read: Saudi Arabia Riyal Rate
Carry Trade

The carry trade is a popular trading strategy in the currency market. It involves buying a high-yielding currency and funding it with a low-yielding currency.
The New Zealand dollar is a favorite among traders and investors due to its higher interest rates compared to other developed nations. This makes it an attractive choice for those looking to profit from interest rate differentials.
To execute a carry trade, traders typically purchase the New Zealand dollar and sell a lower-yielding currency, such as the Japanese yen. The goal is to benefit from the interest rate difference between the two currencies.
The interest rate differential is a key factor in determining the appeal of a carry trade. The higher the interest rate of the high-yielding currency, the more attractive it is to traders.
Readers also liked: Danish Kronor Fx Rate 9/30/24
How Far Will My Money Last?
New Zealand offers great value for UK holidaymakers, making it an appealing destination for all budgets.
Meal costs in Auckland are relatively affordable, with three courses for two people and a bottle of house wine costing around the same as a typical dinner back home.
In Auckland, you can enjoy a meal for two with a bottle of wine for less than £50.
Auckland's prices are a great indicator of what to expect in New Zealand as a whole, with costs being relatively consistent across the country.
The Post Office Travel Money research found that prices in Auckland are a good benchmark for the rest of New Zealand.
Whether you're a backpacker or looking for more comfort, New Zealand's currency offers good value for UK holidaymakers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Australian currency in New Zealand?
No, you cannot use Australian currency in New Zealand. You'll need to exchange your AUD for NZD before your trip to avoid any inconvenience.
Is it NZD or NZD?
The correct currency code for New Zealand Dollar is NZD. This is the standard code used internationally for exchange rates and transactions.
How much is $1.00 USD in NZD?
$1.00 USD is equivalent to approximately 1.78 NZD. For the most up-to-date exchange rate, please refer to our currency conversion tool.
How much is NZD in US$?
The current exchange rate for 1 NZD to USD is approximately 0.5733 USD, with a 30-day average. Check our currency stats for the latest updates and historical trends.
Sources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Zealand_dollar
- https://www.xe.com/currency/nzd-new-zealand-dollar/
- https://wise.com/us/currency-converter/currencies/nzd-new-zealand-dollar
- https://www.postoffice.co.uk/travel-money/new-zealand-dollar
- https://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/08/currency-in-new-zealand.asp
Featured Images: pexels.com