Best Credit Card Rewards in NZ

We often get asked what is the best rewards credit card so we put together a list of the best credit card rewards in NZ. The list below includes our selection of the best credit cards for rewards in New Zealand in order of preference. Keep in mind the best credit card rewards card for you would depend on your personal circumstance. Compare all NZ rewards credit cards below.

Hint: use the Reward Points Cash Equivalent value to compare the earn rate of each card for every $100 spend.

The Amex Airpoints Platinum Card is the FASTEST Air NZ Airpoints Dollar^TM earning Platinum credit card. Every $70 spend earns you 1 Airpoints Dollar. This card also includes complimentary Travel Insurance, VIP Lounge access and more. 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.

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*Terms and conditions apply

Updated: 21 Dec, 2024

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Best Rewards Credit Cards in NZ

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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 DollarTM 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
SBS Visa Credit Card Gold Award	A No annual fee credit card that allows you to earn $1 for every $150 spent on eligible transactions. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $0.66 cash equivalent^.	19.65%	N/A	22.65%	$0.00	55 days More Info » Apply Now »
The American Express Gold Rewards Credit Card Platinum Award	Amex's FASTEST earn rate credit card in NZ. Get 2 points per $1 spent with this award-winning Membership Rewards programme. CURRENT OFFER: Get $200 back* (Statement Credit). *Apply online, be approved and spend $1,500 on your new Card within the first 3 months. New Card Members only. T&Cs apply. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $1.25 cash equivalent^.	22.95% p.a.	N/A	22.95% p.a.	$200.00	55 days More Info » Apply Now » No documents required to apply1
BNZ Advantage Visa Platinum Credit Card Gold Award	Spend $1 and get 1.67 BNZ Points. The BNZ Advantage Platinum Visa Card also comes with a 90 days platinum International Leisure Travel Insurance and Domestic rental and vehicle excess insurance. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $1.11 cash equivalent^.	18.95%	N/A	18.95%	$90.00	55 days More Info » Apply Now »
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 Hotpoints World MasterCard Credit Card Gold Award	Earn 2 hotpoints for every $1 spent on your card up to (and including) $15,000 then 1 hotpoint for every $1 spent on your card each month. Plus Priority Pass lounge access to over 1,500 airport lounges around the world and overseas travel insurance for up to 120 days per round trip. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $1.11 cash equivalent (for up to $15,000 spend)^. $100 spend earns $0.55 cash equivalent (for over $15,000 spend)^.	16.95% p.a.	5.95% for life of balance transferred	22.95% p.a.	$285.00	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 »
ASB Visa Platinum Rewards Credit Card Gold Award	Choose between True Rewards or Everyday Rewards points. Earn 1 True Rewards Dollar for every $100 you spend or 1 Everyday Rewards point for every $1 spent on your ASB card. This card also comes with travel insurance for you, your spouse and your dependent children. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $1.00 cash equivalent in True Rewards points^.	19.95%	0% p.a. for 6 months	22.95%	$80.00	55 days More Info » Apply Now »
BNZ Advantage Classic Visa Credit Card Gold Award	Earn 1 BNZ Point for every $1 you spend on eligible purchases. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $0.67 cash equivalent^.	20.95%	N/A	22.95%	$40.00	55 days More Info » Apply Now »
Westpac Hotpoints MasterCard Credit Card Gold Award	Earn 1 hotpoint for every $1 spent on your card up to (and including) $3,500 then 0.5 hotpoints for every $1 spent on your card each month. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $0.55 cash equivalent (for up to $3,500 spend)^. $100 spend earns $0.27 cash equivalent (for over $3,500 spend)^.	20.95% p.a.	5.95% for life of balance transferred	22.95% p.a.	$40.00	55 days More Info » Apply Now »
Westpac Hotpoints Platinum MasterCard Credit Card Gold Award	Earn 1.5 hotpoints for every $1 spent on your card up to (and including) $7,000 then 1 hotpoint for every $1 spent on your card each month. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $0.83 cash equivalent (for up to $7,000 spend)^. $100 spend earns $0.55 cash equivalent (for over $7,000 spend)^.	20.95% p.a.	5.95% for life of balance transferred	22.95% p.a.	$70.00	55 days More Info » Apply Now »
TSB Platinum Mastercard Credit Card Gold Award	Earn $1 cashback on every $100 spent on eligible purchases. Plus a range of insurance. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $1.00 cash equivalent^.	20.95%	N/A	22.95%	$90.00	55 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 CashBack Visa Credit Card Gold Award	You get $1 cash back for every $150 spent on eligible purchases. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $0.66 cash equivalent^.	20.95%	N/A	20.95%	$40.00	55 days More Info » Apply Now »
ANZ Airpoints Visa Credit Card Gold Award	Earn 1 Airpoints DollarTM 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 »
ANZ CashBack Platinum Credit Card Gold Award	The ANZ Cash back Platinum card allows you to earn $1 cash back for every $120 spent on eligible purchases. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $0.83 cash equivalent^.	20.95%	N/A	20.95%	$80.00	55 days More Info » Apply Now »
ANZ Airpoints Visa Platinum Credit Card Gold Award	Earn 1 Airpoints Dollar for every $110 you spend on eligible purchases. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $0.90 cash equivalent^.	20.95%	N/A	20.95%	$150.00	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 »
ASB Visa Rewards Credit Card Gold Award	Get one True Rewards Dollar for every $150 you spend on your ASB Visa Rewards. One True Rewards Dollar equals one New Zealand dollar. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $0.66 cash equivalent^.	20.95%	0.00% for 6 months	22.95%	$40.00	55 days More Info » Apply Now »
Flight Centre Mastercard Credit Card Gold Award	Earn 1.5 Flight Centre Reward for every NZ$100 you spend on a Purchase and 3 Flight Centre Reward points if purchased from Flight Centre. Flight Centre Mastercards has a $50 annual fee and a $55 establishment fee on your first purchase using Long Term Finance. This card charge no foreign transaction fees. The establishment fee reduces to $35 for subsequent Long Term Finance Purchases. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $0.66 cash equivalent^.	24.99%	N/A	26.99%	$50.00	Up to 44 days More Info » Apply Now »
Purple Visa Credit Card (Purple Visa NZ) Gold Award	The Purple Card offers 1 purple dollar for every $150 spent wherever Visa is accepted plus 12 months interest free for purchases over $250 from participating retailers. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $0.66 cash equivalent^.	26.65% p.a. Plus 12 months interest free for purchases over $250 from select stores	N/A	29.40%	$55.00	55 days More Info » Apply Now »
Farmers Mastercard Credit Card Gold Award	Earn 1 Farmers Club Point for every $10 you spend using your Farmers Mastercard credit card. This card has a $50 annual fee and a $55 establishment fee on your first purchase using Long Term Finance. The establishment fee reduces to $35 for subsequent Long Term Finance Purchases. Reward Points Cash Equivalent: $100 spend earns $0.80 cash equivalent^.	28.50%	N/A	N/A	$50.00	Up to 55 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.

The Amex Airpoints Platinum Card is the FASTEST Air NZ Airpoints Dollar^TM earning Platinum credit card. Every $70 spend earns you 1 Airpoints Dollar. This card also includes complimentary Travel Insurance, VIP Lounge access and more. 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.

More Info »

*Terms and conditions apply

What is the best rewards credit cards in NZ?

We have compiled a list of the best Rewards Credit Cards in NZ to help you choose the best credit cards with rewards to suit your needs. The best credit card for you would depend on your personal circumstance and needs so only you can decide which credit card best suits your needs. For a full list of all rewards credit cards on our website visit our rewards credit cards page.

How Rewards Credit Cards work?

Rewards credit cards give you a bit of a reward back on your purchases. In addition to different reward structures, the rewards cards vary in terms of how your rewards can be redeemed and what kinds of things they may be redeemed for. For example, some cards offer cashback which can be used as you please while other offer reward points which can only be redeemed for goods and services. To find the best rewards credit card for you, consider your spending habits and the types of rewards that you would like go get.

Types of Rewards Credit Cards

In ordder to pick the best rewards credit card to suit your need you needs it would help to know about the differnet types of rewards credit cards available in New Zealand. Below we have outlined the common types of rewards credit cards in New Zealand.

Points-based rewards:

These types of rewards credit card earn you reward points for every dollar you spend, which can be redeemed for various goods and services.

Cashback rewards

Cashback credit cards earn you a cashback for every dollar you spend on your credit card instead of reward points. You can withdraw the cash to use as you please.

Airpoints rewards:

These types of rewards credit card earn you Air New Zealand airpoints which can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, and other goodies from participating stores. Credit Cards that earn you Airpoints are called Airpoints Credit Cards.

Travel rewards:

These types of rewards credit card offer travel related benefits such as complimentary travel insurance, no foreign transaction fees, concierge service etc. These types of credi cards are called Travel Credit Cards.

Store-specific cards:

Store credit cards earn you rewards that can only be used at specific retailer’s store or groups of stores.

Things to consider before getting a Rewards credit card

A good rewards credit card should work with your spending habits and not force you to change your habits or overspend just to make the best out of the rewards credit card. Before you apply for a rewards credit card, it is worth taking these steps:

1. Analyse your spending habits.
2. Consider how plan to use a credit card.
3. Compare Different Credit Cards.
4. Pick a card that rewards that type of use.
5. Read the fine print or at least the key facts sheet.

Common pitfalls of rewards credit cards

Once you have acquired your rewards credit card below are a few common pitfalls that you should try to avoid.

Overspending to Earn Rewards

One of the most common mistakes with rewards credit cards is overspending just to earn rewards. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of earning reward points or cash back, but it is not worth it if you’re spending more than you can afford. Stick to your budget and avoid unnecessary purchases.

Watch out for Annual Fees

Many rewards credit cards come with annual fees. While these fees can be worth it if the rewards outweigh the cost, it’s important to factor the annual fee into your decision.

Not paying off Balances on time

Carrying a balance on your rewards credit card can erode the value of any rewards you earn. The interest charges can add up, making it harder to pay off your debt. Always aim to pay off your balance in full each month to maximise the benefits of your rewards card especially because rewards credit cards tend ot have high interest rates.

How to take advantage of Rewards credit cards

If you are a rewards credit cards enthusiast then the tips below can help you take even more advantage of NZ credit card rewards.

Using Multiple Rewards Cards

A good way to maximise your credit card rewards is by combining multiple credit cards to take advantage of different reward structures. For example, you might use one credit card for groceries and another for travel. This strategy allows you to earn the highest possible rewards on each purchase category but keep in mind the benefit needs to outweigh the annual cost of the extra card.

Leveraging Sign-Up Bonuses

Sign-up bonus credit cards can provide a significant boost to your rewards points but make sure you can meet the spending requirements without overspending. It can help to time your applications around planned large expenses to meet the spend thresholds that are often tied in with sign-up bonuses.

Using Rewards for Travel

To get the most out of your travel rewards, consider transferring points to airlines or hotel partners. This can often provide more value than redeeming directly through your credit card’s travel portal. Additionally, keep an eye out for special promotions or transfer bonuses that can further enhance the value of your points. Travel credit cards are also more tailored to frequent flyers.

Frequently asked question about Rewards credit cards

What is the best rewards credit card?

The best rewards credit card in New Zealand in terms of the reward points or cash back earn rate is the American Express Airpoints Platinum Credit Card which has the highest cash-equivalent earn rate of $1.42 for every $100 spent on the card.

What is the best credit card rewards?

The best credit card rewards program is the program that best aligns with your spending habit and needs. The Airpoints rewards program is the most common credit card rewards program in New Zealand and used by several credit card providers and retailers. One of the attraction of the Airpoints rewards program is that it is easy to understand since 1 Airpoints Dollar is equivalent to $1 New Zealand Dollar when redeemed with Air New Zealand or through the Airpoints Store or which allows you to redeem your points with many New Zealand retailers including by getting Gift Cards.

How do I compare credit card rewards?

You can compare credit reward programs by comparing their cash-equivalent earn rate and other benefits the card offers. We have calculated and provided the rewards points cash-equivalent earn rate for each rewards credit card to help you comapre credit card rewards programs in New Zealand. Look for the cash-equivalent earn rate when comparing rewards credit cards on our website to help you with your credit card rewards comparison.

What are the best credit card rewards programs

The best credit card rewards programs are the ones that provide you with the most benefit. We’ve included all the best reward credit cards available in New Zealand on this page to help you find the right credit card rewards program.

What is a rewards credit card?

A rewards credit card allows you to earn cash back, reward points, or Airpoints on your purchases. These rewards can be redeemed for various benefits such as travel, cash, prodcts etc.

How do rewards credit cards work?

Rewards credit cards give you reward points, airpoints, or cash back for every dollar you spend. These rewards can be accumulated and later redeemed for various benefits, depending on the card’s reward program. Popular rewards credit cards including Airpoints Credit Cards and Cashback credit cards.

What types of rewards can I earn with a rewards credit card?

The main types of rewards in New Zealand are cash back, reward points, and airpoints. Some credit cards may also offer other benefits such as complimentary travel insurance, purchase protection, no foreign transaction fees etc.

What should I consider when choosing a rewards credit card?

Consider factors such as the type of rewards that best suit your spending habits, annual fees, interest rates, and any additional benefits or perks the credit card offers that may be of benefit to you. Reading the fine print is also advisable.

Can using a rewards credit card affect my credit score?

Yes, using a rewards credit card can affect your credit score. Responsible use, such as paying off balances on time, can improve your credit score, while missed payments or high balances can negatively impact it.

When is it not a good idea to get a rewards credit card?

A rewards credit card might not be suitable for you if you plan to take on a significant credit card debt without paying it off on time. In this case a low interest credit card might be more suitable.

A rewards credit card might also not be suitable for you if you currently have significant credit card debt. Instead, you might want to consider a balance transfer credit card with an ongoing low purchase rate.

What type of rewards credit card are available?

There is a range of credit card rewards programs available in New Zealand including Airpoints Credit Cards, Hotpoints Credit Cards, Flybuys Credit Cards, Cashback credit Cards, Purple points Credit Cards and more. Some rewards programs only allow you to redeem your points for flights or to use in-store whereas others are more flexible and allow you to redeem your points at multiple locations or redeem them for cash.

What are signup bonus points credit cards?

Sign up bonus points credit cards are cards that offer bonus points when you first sign up for the credit card. It is an incentive you get you to get the credit card.

What can I use my credit card reward points for?

How you can use your credit card rewards points depends on the specific card. Some credit card reward points can only be redeemed for flights or used in store, whereas others are more flexible and can be redeemed in multiple locations, with some even allowing points to be redeemed as cash.

It helps to think about how you are going to use your reward points before you apply for a rewards credit card. For example, if you do not fly often then Airpoints might not be worth much to you.

Are there any reward credit cards with low interest rates?

In general, rewards credit cards do NOT tend to have low interest rates. You can use our credit card finder to filter through all the rewards credit cards to find find one with a relatively lower interest rate.

Are there any hidden fees or surprises with rewards credit cards?

Most credit cards require a minimum repayment to be made each month and if you fail to make this payment then a penalty fee or penalty rate might be applied each month. You need to make sure you understand what penalty rate or fees would apply before purchasing a credit card. Rewards credit cards tend to have a higher annual fee and high interest rate. As with most credit cards, direct cash withdrawals are generally charged at a higher rate as indicated by the cash rate of the card.

Below are a few things to look out for with rewards credit cards:

• Not all points are equal – It is important to know that not all points are the same. A point from one reward scheme might be worth twice as much as a point from another reward scheme.
• Reward points capping – Many reward schemes have reward point caps – meaning you cannot earn more than a certain number of point per year. This is a very important factor when considering reward programs to choose from.
• Reward points expiry – Some reward programs have reward point expiry which can be frustrating since this information is usually buried in the small print.
• East of point redemption – Make sure you know how to redeem your points before you apply for a reward credit card. This is important to avoid any frustration down the line after you have gone through the hassle of collecting your points. Some programs make it very difficult to redeem points whereas others go as far as automating the process.
• Flexibility – Some reward points can only be redeemed for flights or used as store credit. Make sure you know what you can redeem your points for.
• Bonus points – Some cards offer sign up bonus or spending bonus. Store or business specific credit cards offer extra points for shopping within the store or business. This in important information if you tend to spend a lot of money with at the store or business.

Should I apply for a rewards credit card?

A rewards credit card can be beneficial if you expect to pay off your balance in full before the interest free period ends, and the benefits of owning the credit card outweighs the cost of having card including any anual or bi-annual fees for the card.

What is the best rewards credit card in NZ?

The best rewards credit card is highly subjective and depends on your personal circumstance and what you are trying to gain from the rewards credit card. What is important is to make sure that the benefit of owning the credit card outweighs the cost of having the credit card.

How much are a credit card reward points worth?

The value of credit card reward points vary extensively from one credit card to another. For example, one reward point might be worth $1 (in cash) for credit card A but worth just 1 cent for credit card B. When signing up for a rewards credit card it is important to understand the dollar value of the reward points you will be getting in order to compare the different reward schemes. Aside from the dollar value of the reward points, you should also take into account the other benefits you will get from the credit card such as free travel insurance, free airport lounge access, low or no-annual fee etc.

What are the other options to a rewards credit card?

If you expect to carry a sizeable debt on your credit card without paying it off each pay cycle, then a low rate credit card might be more suitable for you and if you currently have a significant credit card debt then a balance transfer credit card might be more suitable. If you always pay your credit card debt on time you might also be interested in a no-annual fee credit card.

How do I compare rewards credit cards?

To compare rewards credit cards compare the reward points cash equivalent earn rate of the card and the other benefits offered. We’ve worked out the estimated rewards points cash-equivalent earn rate for every $100 spend to help you compare rewards credit cards across different reward programs.

What is the best credit card for rewards?

The best credit card for rewards in NZ is the the American Express Airpoints Platinum Credit Card which has the highest reward points cash-equivalent earn rate of $1.42 for every $100 spent on the card. The best rewards credit card for you would depend on your personal circumstance and needs.

What is the best rewards credit card in NZ?

We often get asked what is the best rewards credit card in NZ but the best credit card with rewards for you would depend on your personal circumstance and how you plan to use your credit card. We’ve compiled above a list of all rewards credit cards in NZ to help you choose the right credit card for you. To find the best credit card for you, we recommend that you compare all NZ credit cards on our website or narrow down your search by a credit card type as shown below. Note: you can select more credit card types using the top menu of this page.

• Airpoints credit card
• Credit cards with rewards (on this page)
• Frequent flyer credit cards
• Travel credit cards
• lowest interest rate credit card
• Interest free credit card
• balance transfer credit card
• Credit card with travel insurance
• Credit cards with lounge access
• Compare all NZ credit cards