New Zealand money is in dollars and cents. There is a bank branch, or at least an automatic teller machine (ATM), on nearly every tertiary campus. All banks offer phone and Internet banking.
If you're staying more than a few months it's worth opening your own bank account. Some banks let you open an account before you arrive in New Zealand. Banks don't usually lend money to international students. Your institution support staff will be able to help you.
There’s usually a fee for every transaction, including EFTPOS. Make sure you get advice from your bank about which account and fee structure will be best for you. Most banks offer special packages for full-time students.
You can bring as much foreign currency as you like into New Zealand, but if it’s more than NZ$10,000 you need to declare it to Customs. Most overseas currencies are easily exchanged at New Zealand banks. Check out the latest exchange rates.
Contact your bank immediately and cancel credit and EFTPOS cards. Also let the police know as sometimes lost property is handed in to them. It's a good idea to keep a separate list of the cards in your wallet.