Airpoints Credit Cards in NZ – Find the Best Airpoints Credit Card in New Zealand

Airpoints credit cards are credit cards that allow you to earn Air New Zealand Airpoints Dollars™ by using your credit card for purchases. Use the Airpoints credit card comparison table below to compare Airpoints credit cards in NZ to find the best Airpoints credit card for you.

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Updated: 24 Nov, 2024

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Card	Description	Purchase Rate (p.a.)	Balance Transfer	Cash Rate (p.a.)	Annual Fee	Interest Free Days
The American Express Airpoints Platinum Card Platinum Award	The FASTEST Airpoints Dollar^TM earning Platinum Credit Card in NZ. Every $70 you spend earns you 1 Airpoints Dollar. This cards also comes with: Complimentary Travel Insurance for domestic and international travel Koru joining fee waived Koru annual fee discount of $145 Two VIP Lounges access with Priority Pass per year. Two entries per year to the Centurion lounge at Sydney or Melbourne International Airport CURRENT OFFER: Receive 300 bonus Airpoints Dollars™ when you apply online, are approved and spend $1,500 on your new Card within the first 3 months. New Card Members only. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $1.42 cash equivalent^.	22.95% p.a.	N/A	22.95% p.a.	$195.00	55 days More Info » Apply Now » No documents required to apply¹
The American Express Airpoints Credit Card Platinum Award	Interest Free (0% P.A.) on purchases for the first 6 months, plus NO ANNUAL FEE and earn 1 Air New Zealand Airpoints Dollar for every $100 you spend. CURRENT OFFER: 50 bonus Airpoints Dollars™ when you apply, are approved and spend $750 on your new Card within the first 3 months. New Card Members only. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $1.00 cash equivalent^.	0% p.a. for 6 months then 22.95% p.a.	N/A	22.95% p.a.	$0.00	55 days More Info » Apply Now » No documents required to apply¹
Kiwibank Air New Zealand Airpoints Low Fee Visa Credit Card Gold Award	Earn 1 Airpoints Dollar™ for every $200 spent on eligible purchases. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $0.50 cash equivalent^.	16.90% p.a.	1.99% p.a. for 6 months	16.90% p.a.	$50.00	44 days More Info » Apply Now »
Westpac Airpoints World MasterCard Credit Card Gold Award	This card is a touch of everything including Airpoints, a relatively low interest rate of 16.95% and a balance transfer offer of 5.95% for life of balance transferred. It also comes with Priority Pass lounge access to over 1,500 airport lounges around the world. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $1.05 cash equivalent (for up to $15,000 spend)^. $100 spend earns $0.52 cash equivalent (for over $15,000 spend)^.	16.95%	5.95% for life of balance transferred	22.95%	$310.00	44 days More Info » Apply Now »
Westpac Airpoints MasterCard Credit Card 3.5/5 Stars	Earn 1 Airpoints Dollar for every $150 spent on eligible purchases on your card up to (and including) $3,500 then 1 Airpoints Dollar for every $300 spent on your card each month. plus 5.95% p.a. for the life of the balance transferred to this card. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $0.66 cash equivalent (for up to $3,500 spend)^. $100 spend earns $0.33 cash equivalent (for over $3,500 spend)^.	20.95% p.a.	5.95% for life of balance transferred	22.95% p.a.	$70.00	55 days More Info » Apply Now »
Westpac Airpoints Platinum MasterCard Credit Card Gold Award	Earn 1 Airpoints Dollar for every $110 spent on your card up to (and including) $7,000 then 1 Airpoints Dollar for every $220 spent on your card each month plus get 5.95% for the life of the balance transferred. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $0.90 cash equivalent (for up to $7,000 spend)^. $100 spend earns $0.45 cash equivalent (for over $7,000 spend)^.	20.95% p.a.	5.95% for life of balance transferred	22.95% p.a.	$125.00	44 days More Info » Apply Now »
ANZ Airpoints Visa Credit Card Gold Award	Earn 1 Airpoints Dollar^TM for every $170 dollars you spend on eligible purchase with the ANZ Airpoint Visa Card. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $0.58 cash equivalent^.	20.95%	N/A	20.95%	$65.00	44 days More Info » Apply Now »
Kiwibank Air New Zealand Airpoints Platinum Visa Credit Card Gold Award	Earn 1 Airpoints Dollar™ for every $115 spent on eligible purchases. This card also comes with complimentary overseas travel insurance for you and your immediate family travelling with you for up to 40 days. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $0.64 cash equivalent^.	20.95%	1.99% p.a. for 6 months	20.95%	$180.00	44 days More Info » Apply Now »

^ To help you compare reward points across different credit cards and rewards programs, we provide an estimate of the cash-equivalent of the reward points that you will get back for every $100 you spend on eligible purchases with your card. The cash equivalent value given is an estimate only based on a specific redemption example. In some cases you might earn less or more depending on how you redeem your ponts and some reward points cannot be redeemed for cash directly. Click on the card to find out how the estimate was calculated.

What are Airpoints

Airpoints is a loyalty program run by Air New Zealand, the national airline of New Zealand. Members of the program can earn Airpoints Dollars by flying with Air New Zealand or its partner airlines, as well as through other means like using an Airpoints earning credit card, shopping with affiliated partners, or staying at certain hotels.

Airpoints Dollars can be used to purchase flights, upgrades, rental cars, and other services and goods. Although Airpoints are often used for travel related expenses, members can redeem their points for non-travel related goods using the Airpoints Store which offers many products and gift cards from several New Zealand retailers. The program also has different membership tiers such as Silver, Gold, and Elite that offer additional benefits like priority boarding, lounge access, and extra baggage allowance, depending on the member’s status.

What Are Airpoints Dollars?

Airpoints Dollars are a type of currency used by Air New Zealand’s loyalty program. You earn these dollars when you fly with Air New Zealand or its partners, and you can use them to book flights, upgrades, and other rewards. Here are some key points about Airpoints Dollars:

They can be earned through flights, shopping, and various promotions.
Each Airpoints Dollar is worth approximately one New Zealand dollar when redeemed for flights.
You can also earn Airpoints Dollars through everyday spending at selected retailers.

How to Calculate the Value of Airpoints Dollars

To understand how valuable your Airpoints Dollars are, consider the following:

Redemption Value: Generally, one Airpoints Dollar equals one NZD when used for flights.
Earning Rates: Different flights and services offer varying rates of earning Airpoints Dollars. Check the earning rates before booking.
Promotions: Keep an eye out for special promotions that may offer bonus Airpoints Dollars, increasing their value.

What are Airpoints credit Cards

Airpoints credit cards are credit cards that allow you to earn Airpoints Dollars whenever you make purchases using the card. These credit cards are linked to Air New Zealand’s Airpoints loyalty program. When used to book flights with Air New Zealand or its partners you can earn Airpoints from Air New Zealand for booking the flight and also Airpoints from the credit card for using the card.

Credit cards with Airpoints earning capacity offer an incredible opportunity for Kiwis to turn their everyday expenses into rewarding Airpoints. If you’re eager to unlock the full potential of your Airpoints, understand the intricacies of the program, and find the best Airpoints card to suit your lifestyle, you’re in the right place. We’ll delve into every aspect of Airpoints, providing you with the knowledge to make to choose the right card and maximise your Airpoints earnings.

Choosing the Right Airpoints Credit Card

Assessing Your Spending Habits

To find the perfect Airpoints credit card, it is important to align its features with your lifestyle and spending habits. You should consider your travel goals, and ensure the card’s benefits complements your preferences. It might also help to look into other travel credit cards and compare them against Airpoints credit cards.

Comparing Annual Fees and Interest Rates

Beyond the rewards, it is important to consider the interest rates and fees associated with the card. Pay attention to the annual fees, interest rates, and any additional costs associated with the Airpoints credit cards you are considering, helping you evaluate their overall cost-effectiveness. perhaps you don’t plan to use your Airpoints credit card too often and want a credit card with no annual fee?

Sign-Up Bonuses and Promotions

Many credit cards that earn Airpoints offer enticing sign-up bonuses and promotional offers. Consider the eligibility criteria, redemption processes, and how to make the most of these introductory perks.

Using an Airpoints credit card comparison site like ours can help you quickly compare Airpoint credit cards and read third party reviews of the Airpoints credit cards before you sign up for one. Airpoints credit cards are not restrictued to any credit card network. You can find Airpoints Mastercard, Airpoints Visa cards and Amex Airpoints cards offered in New Zealand. Air NZ does not directly offer credit cards in New Zealand but has partnered with Kiwibank to issue co-branded Air New Zealand and Kiwibank Airpoints credit cards, however there are many other credit cards, as shown on this page, that allow cardholders to earn Airpoints.

Earning Airpoints Through Everyday Spending

Maximising Rewards at Supermarkets

To earn Airpoints Dollars efficiently at supermarkets, consider the following tips:

Choose the Right Supermarket: Shop at supermarkets that offer Airpoints Dollars for every dollar spent.
Use Your Airpoints Card: Always present your Airpoints card at checkout to ensure you earn points.
Look for Promotions: Keep an eye out for special promotions that offer bonus Airpoints Dollars on selected products.
Use your Airpoints Credit Card: If you own an Airpoints earning credit card, use it to earn Airpoints from the supermarket as well as from your credit card provider.

Earn Points with Retail Partners

You can also earn Airpoints Dollars by shopping with various retail partners. Here’s how:

Check the List of Partners: Familiarise yourself with the retailers that are part of the Airpoints program.
Shop with Airpoint Partners: Make purchases at these retailers to accumulate points.
Use Your Airpoints Card: Don’t forget to use your Airpoints card when shopping to ensure you receive your points.
Use your Airpoints Credit Card: You will earn Airpoints from your credit card provider seperate to the points you earn from the retailer.

Utilise Airpoints Mall

Visit the Airpoints Mall: Start your online shopping at the Airpoints Mall to earn points on your purchases.
Select Your Retailer: Choose from a variety of online retailers available in the mall.
Complete Your Purchase: Make your purchase as usual, and your Airpoints Dollars will be credited to your account.
Use your Airpoints Credit Card: You will earn Airpoints from your credit card provider seperate to the points you earn from the online retailer.

Strategic Redemption of Airpoints Dollars

Best Practises for Booking Flights

When it comes to booking flights with your Airpoints Dollars, consider the following tips:

Book Early: Award seats can fill up quickly, so try to book your flights as soon as possible.
Be Flexible: If you can adjust your travel dates, you may find better availability and lower costs.
Check for Promotions: Keep an eye out for special offers that can help you save Airpoints Dollars.

Use Airpoints for Upgrades

Upgrading your flight can enhance your travel experience. Here’s how to make the most of your Airpoints Dollars for upgrades:

Know the Rules: Each airline has specific rules about upgrades, so check these before you book.
Use Upgrades Wisely: Consider upgrading on long-haul flights where the difference in comfort is more noticeable.
Combine with Cash: Sometimes, you can use a mix of Airpoints Dollars and cash to secure an upgrade.

Redeem for Accommodation and Experiences

Your Airpoints Dollars can also be used for more than just flights. Here are some ideas:

Hotels: Look for hotels that accept Airpoints Dollars for bookings. This can save you money on your stay.
Experiences: Consider using your points for unique experiences, such as tours or activities, to make your trip memorable.
Dining and Shopping: Some restaurants and shops allow you to use Airpoints Dollars, so check if your favourite places participate.

Redeem Airpoints for goods

Your Airpoints don’t have to redeem for travel related expenses. You can also use your Airpoints to purchase products online or to purchases gift cards from many major New Zealand retailers.

Leveraging Airpoints with Partner Airlines

Understand Airline Partnerships

To make the most of your Airpoints Dollars, it is helpful to understand the partnerships Air New Zealand has with other airlines. These partnerships allow you to earn and redeem Airpoints Dollars on flights operated by partner airlines. Here are some key points to consider:

Airline Alliances: Air New Zealand is part of the Star Alliance, which includes many international airlines such as Singapore Airline, United Airline, Air China, Air Canada, Air India and much more. This means you can earn Airpoints on flights with these partners.
Earning Points: When flying with partner airlines, ensure you provide your Airpoints membership number to earn points.
Different Rules: Each partner airline may have different rules regarding earning and redeeming Airpoints, so check their specific policies.

How to Book Flights with Partner Airlines

Booking flights with partner airlines can be straightforward if you follow these steps:

Visit the Air New Zealand Website: Start by going to the Air New Zealand website or app.
Search for Flights: Enter your travel details and select the option to include partner airlines in your search.
Select Your Flight: Choose a flight that suits your schedule and budget.
Complete Your Booking: Follow the prompts to complete your booking, ensuring you enter your Airpoints membership number.

Maximise Benefits with Codeshare Flights

Codeshare flights can offer additional benefits when using your Airpoints. Here’s how to maximise these opportunities:

Understanding Codeshare: A codeshare flight is when two or more airlines share the same flight. You can book these flights through either airline.
Earning More Points: Sometimes, booking through the partner airline can yield more Airpoints Dollars, so compare options.
Check Availability: Always check for availability on both the Air New Zealand and partner airline websites to find the best deals.

By leveraging Airpoints with partner airlines, you can enhance your travel experience and maximise your rewards.

Exclusive Benefits for Elite Members

Overview of Airpoints Elite Priority One Status

As an Elite Priority One Airpoints member, you gain access to a range of exclusive benefits that enhance your travel experience. This status is designed for frequent flyers who consistently choose Air New Zealand. Some of the key advantages include:

Priority check-in and boarding
Increased baggage allowance
Access to premium Airport lounges
Dedicated customer service support

Additional Perks for Frequent Flyers

Frequent flyers enjoy several perks that make their journeys smoother and more enjoyable. These include:

Complimentary upgrades on eligible flights
Bonus Airpoints Dollars on every flight
Special offers and discounts on partner services
Invitations to exclusive events and promotions

How to Achieve Elite Status

When you book flights with Air New Zealand and other airlines that are part of the Star Alliance you earn Status points which determines your Airpoints membership tier. To get to an Airpoints Elite membership tier you would need 1,500 Status point within 12 months, and to retain your Elite membership you would need to earn 1,350 Status poins every 12 months.

Achieving Elite status is a rewarding journey that requires dedication. Here are the steps to reach this level:

Fly regularly with Air New Zealand: Accumulate Airpoints Dollars through flights.
Utilise partner airlines: Earn points by flying with partner airlines.
Engage with Airpoints promotions: Take advantage of special offers to boost your points.
Stay informed: Keep an eye on your progress and any changes in the programme.

Tips for Staying Informed on Airpoints Promotions

Subscribing to Air New Zealand Updates

To stay updated on the latest Airpoints promotions, consider subscribing to Air New Zealand’s newsletters. This way, you will receive direct information about special offers, bonus points opportunities, and exclusive deals straight to your inbox. Here’s how to do it:

Visit the Air New Zealand website.
Look for the newsletter subscription option.
Enter your email address and confirm your subscription.

Following Travel Blogs and Forums

Engaging with travel blogs and forums can provide valuable insights into Airpoints promotions. Many travel enthusiasts share their experiences and tips on how to maximise rewards. Here are some popular platforms to consider:

Point Hacks: A comprehensive resource for points collectors.
FlyerTalk: A forum where frequent flyers discuss various loyalty programmes.
Travel Blogs: Search for blogs that focus on New Zealand travel and loyalty programmes.

Utilising Social Media for Alerts

Social media is a powerful tool for staying informed about Airpoints promotions. Follow Air New Zealand on platforms like Facebook, X, and Instagram. You can:

Turn on notifications for their posts.
Join relevant groups or pages that discuss Airpoints and travel deals.
Engage with the community to share tips and learn from others.

Navigating the Airpoints Mall

What Is the Airpoints Mall?

The Airpoints Mall is an online shopping platform where you can earn Airpoints Dollars by purchasing from various retailers. It offers a wide range of products and services, making it easy for you to accumulate points while shopping for everyday items.

How to Earn More Points Through the Mall

To maximise your Airpoints Dollars through the Airpoints Mall, consider the following tips:

Shop Regularly: Make it a habit to check the Airpoints Mall before making any purchases.
Look for Promotions: Keep an eye out for special promotions that offer bonus points for specific retailers.
Use the App: Download the Air New Zealand app to access exclusive deals and earn points on the go.
Combine Offers: If possible, combine Airpoints Mall purchases with other loyalty programs to maximise your rewards.

Best Deals and Offers Available

The Airpoints Mall frequently updates its offers. Here are some ways to find the best deals:

Check the Homepage: The homepage often highlights current promotions and top retailers.
Sign Up for Alerts: Subscribe to notifications to stay informed about new deals and limited-time offers.
Explore Categories: Browse through different categories to find discounts on items you need, from electronics to fashion.

Alternatives to Airpoints Credit Cards

Although Airpoints credit cards are great rewards credit cards, there are some other alternatives you could consider as detailed below.

Rewards Credit Cards

Airpoints are the most popular rewards credit cards in New Zealand but there are other credit card reward programs you could also consider. Other common types of rewards credit cards include:

Credit cards with cash back
Every Rewards credit cards
Hotpoints credit cards
True Rewards credit cards
Membership rewards credit cards

Frequent Flyer Credit Cards

If you fly frequently then Frequent Flyer Credit Cards might be a suitable choice for you. These credit cards tailored to frequent flyers and offer benefits frequent flyers would enjoy such as Free travel insurance, Airport lounge access and more.

Low Interest Rate Credit Cards

If you plan to carry a balance on your credit card then a low interest credit card might be a good option. Any credit card with a purchase rate below 14% is considered a low interest rate credit card.

Travel Credit Cards

Regular travellers both domestic and international might benefit from Travel credit cards. Travel credit cards usually allow you to earn points on your spending that can be redeemed for flights, accommodation, and other travel-related expenses. NZ Travel credit card also often include benefits such as free travel insurance and concierge service.

Interest Free Credit Cards

If you want a bit more time to pay off your purchases then an Interest Free Credit Card might help. Interest free credit cards allow you to make a purchase and pay no interest for a fixed period. Benefits include:

We’ve also put together a list of the best credit cards in NZ to help Kiwis find the right card, alternatively you can browse through all NZ Credit Cards from our home page and use the filters to find a suitable card.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Airpoints Dollars?

Airpoints Dollars are rewards you earn when you fly with Air New Zealand or shop with their partners or using a Airpoints earning credit card. You can use these dollars to pay for flights, upgrades, and other travel-related expenses.

What is the best Airpoints Credit Card?

The best Airpoints Credit Card in terms of the Airpoints earn rate is the American Express Airpoints Platinum Card which has the highest Airpoints earn rate in New Zealand, but the best Airpoints credit card for you might differ depending on your personal needs and the benefits offered by each Airpoints credit card.

How can I figure out how much my Airpoints Dollars are worth?

To find out how much your Airpoints Dollars are worth, you can look at the redemption rates for flights and other services. Generally, you can think of each Airpoints Dollar as being worth about a dollar when used for flights.

How do Airpoints Dollars compare to other loyalty programs?

Airpoints Dollars are quite flexible compared to some other loyalty programs. They can be used not only for flights, upgrades and accommodation but also for purchasing products and gift cards from retail partners, making them a great choice for frequent travellers.

What are the best ways to earn Airpoints Dollars?

You can earn Airpoints Dollars by flying with Air New Zealand, shopping at partner stores, using the Airpoints Mall online shopping portal or Airpoints earning credit cards. Every dollar spent can help you earn points!

Can I use Airpoints Dollars for things other than flights?

Yes, you can use Airpoints Dollars for more than just flights. They can be redeemed for upgrades, accommodation, car rental and you can redeem them for product and gift cards from several New Zealand retailers using the Airoints Store.

How can I stay updated on Airpoints promotions?

To keep up with Airpoints promotions, you can subscribe to Air New Zealand’s newsletters, follow travel blogs, and check their social media accounts for the latest deals.

What is the best Airpoints credit card in NZ?

The best Airpoints credit card for you would depend on your personal circumstance and how you intend to use your credit card but the American Express Airpoints Platinum Card offers the highest Airpoints earn rate in New Zealand. You might also be interested in our list of the best credit cards in NZ. For more cards you can compare all NZ credit cards on our website.