What is the currency in New Zealand? Complete guide to the New Zealand dollar
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If you are planning an exchange in New Zealand, one of the first questions that arise is: what currency is used in the country? The answer is the New Zealand dollar (NZD), also known as the “kiwi dollar”. For those considering study and work in New Zealand, understanding the local currency is fundamental to financial planning.
What is the New Zealand dollar?
The New Zealand dollar has been New Zealand's official currency since 1967. Represented by the $ or NZ$ symbol, it is subdivided into 100 cents. Currently, in September 2025, 1 New Zealand dollar is worth approximately 3.12 Brazilian reais, a price that varies daily in the foreign exchange market.
For exchange students who intend to work 25 hours a week during their studies (new rule valid as of November 3, 2025), this price has a direct impact on financial planning. As we mentioned in our article about 10 fun facts about studying and working in New Zealand, the country offers excellent opportunities for those who wish to combine studies with work.
Fascinating history of the New Zealand currency
Before 1967, New Zealand used the New Zealand pound, following the British monetary system. The switch to the dollar occurred as part of the country's economic modernization, facilitating business transactions and aligning with international practices.
The New Zealand dollar has undergone several reformulations over the years:
- 1967-1999: Early versions of banknotes and coins
- 1999: Introduction of polymer grades, more durable and safe
- 2015-2016: Launch of the current series, with modernized designs
Unique characteristics of the New Zealand dollar
What makes the New Zealand dollar special among world currencies? Some peculiarities are worth noting:
Polymer notes
New Zealand pioneered the use of plastic banknotes. These banknotes are stronger, more durable and have advanced security elements that make counterfeiting difficult.
Current denominations
Circulating notes are NZ$5, NZ$10, NZ$20, NZ$50, and NZ$100. The coins include 10¢, 20¢, 50¢, NZ$1, and NZ$2. An interesting fact: the 5¢ coins were discontinued in 2006.
Culturally rich design
Each note honors important personalities in New Zealand history, such as Sir Edmund Hillary (mountaineer) and Kate Sheppard (suffragist), reflecting the country's values and cultural identity.
Expanded purchasing power for Brazilian exchange students
With the current exchange rate of NZ$1 = R$3.12 and the new rule that allows working 25 hours a week starting in November 2025, let's analyze what this means in practice for those who are going Study in New Zealand:
Basic costs in New Zealand dollars
- Meal at a simple restaurant: NZ$15-20 (R$47-62)
- Public transportation (single trip): NZ$3-4 (R$9-12)
- Coffee: NZ$4-5 (R$12-16)
- Supermarket (weekly purchases): NZ$80-120 (R$250-375)
Working 25 hours a week with a minimum wage of NZ$23.50 per hour results in approximately NZ$587.50 a week (about R$1,833), a significant increase in income that can cover practically all basic living costs.
Practical tips on foreign exchange and money
For exchange students who plan to take advantage of the new work rule starting in November 2025, some tips are essential:
How to take money to New Zealand
Following the guidelines of our Complete guide on how to take money to travel abroad, the best options include:
- Wise account: Offers multi-currency cards with competitive rates and facilitates international transfers
- International prepaid card: Greater control of expenses
- Cash: For initial emergencies (NZ$10,000 limit)
Monitoring the quotation
Tracking currency fluctuations is essential, especially if you use the Wise account for your transfers. Exchange apps can alert you when the exchange rate is favorable for buying New Zealand dollars, maximizing your purchasing power abroad.
Comparison with other exchange destinations
When compared to other popular destinations, New Zealand has interesting advantages, especially with the new 25-hour work rule. Unlike countries such as Australia, where costs may be higher, New Zealand offers an even better balance between quality of life and affordable costs.
For students considering multiple destinations, it is also interesting to evaluate programs such as study and work in Ireland or study and work in Australia, each with its own monetary peculiarities.
Banking system and digital solutions for exchange students
Opening a bank account in New Zealand is relatively simple for international students. Major banks include ANZ, ASB, BNZ, and Westpac. However, many exchange students choose the Wise account even before traveling, as it allows them to receive New Zealand dollars at lower fees and facilitates financial control from Brazil.
To open a local account, you will need a passport with a student visa, proof of address in New Zealand, letter from the educational institution, and proof of initial funds. The country quickly adopted digital solutions such as Paywave, Apple Pay and Google Pay, in addition to the national EFTPOS system, facilitating payments without physical cash.
Financial planning with the new work rule
Considering that you will be able to work 25 hours a week starting November 3, 2025, after completing the required 16 weeks of course, the planning should include:
First phase (until November)
- Total dependence on own resources
- Estimated monthly budget: NZ$1,500-2,000
- Focus on savings and expense control
Second phase (starting November 3, 2025)
- Estimated weekly income: NZ$587.50 (25h/week)
- Monthly earnings: about NZ$2,350
- Real possibility of balancing income and expenses, with plenty for savings
Expanded opportunities beyond the minimum wage
Just as we highlighted in our article about How to raise money to fulfill your exchange dream, there are strategies to further maximize your purchasing power in New Zealand:
Highest paying jobs
With time and improvement in English, it is possible to obtain positions that pay above the minimum wage, especially in:
- Hospitality and tourism (NZ$25-30/hour)
- Information Technology (NZ$30-40/hour)
- Specialized Services (NZ$28-35/hour)
- Seasonal agriculture (NZ$24-28/hour)
Discounts for students
Many establishments offer special discounts for international student card holders, significantly reducing living costs and increasing their purchasing power.
Taking advantage of the ideal time for exchange
New Zealand has never been so attractive for Brazilian exchange students. The combination of the favorable real exchange rate, the new permission to work 25 hours a week and the high quality of life make 2025 the perfect year to fulfill your New Zealand dream.
The New Zealand dollar isn't just a currency, it's a passport to one of the most transformative experiences a young Brazilian can live. Between stunning landscapes, world-class education and real opportunities for professional growth, New Zealand offers everything you need to build a solid future while experiencing an unforgettable adventure.
Be Easy
Ready to make the New Zealand dollar part of your success story? Be Easy is here to make your dream a reality. With our Study and Work in New Zealand program, you will have all the necessary support to take advantage of new job opportunities and build a unique experience in the country of Kiwis. Contact us today and discover how we can help you take the first step towards your New Zealand adventure. Your international future starts here!
