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Kiwibank Airpoints Cards Have Ended - Best Replacement Options

​Replacing your Kiwibank Airpoints credit card with another Airpoints credit card allows you to continue earning Airpoints and Status Points while protecting your current Airpoints balance from expiration. Our guide outlines alternative Airpoints-earning credit cards (from American Express, Westpac, and ANZ), must-know tips to navigate the transition, and frequently asked questions.
Updated 30 August​ 2026

​Important: This guide was relaunched in August 2026. Every rate, fee and rewards figure was checked against each issuer's published terms. Issuers can change these at any time, so confirm the details on the issuer's site (linked under each card) before you apply. Report an error on this page - no name or email needed.

Summary
  • In late May 2025, Kiwibank and Air New Zealand announced the end of their Airpoints credit card partnership, effective October 31, 2025. This decision impacted holders of the Kiwibank Airpoints Platinum Visa and Airpoints Low Fee Visa, marking the end of Airpoints and Status Points earning through these cards.
  • With Kiwibank no longer partnering with Air New Zealand, affected customers have automatically transitioned to Kiwibank's Platinum Visa or Zero Visa, which offer different benefits but no Airpoints rewards.
  • Whether you're a frequent flyer or an occasional traveller, our guide has been published to help you find the best way to keep earning Airpoints and maximise value to help turn everyday spending into valuable rewards.

Our guide explains what the changes mean and what existing Kiwibank Airpoints cardholders need to be aware of. We cover:
Know This: To maintain your Airpoints balance, a Platinum-level Airpoints credit card is essential, as without it, Airpoints older than four years will likely expire. Your Kiwibank card stopped counting as an Airpoints credit card on 31 October 2025, so Airpoints earned more than four years ago are now expiring unless you hold another eligible card. Check the age of your balance in the Air NZ app.
​
Our Top 3 Picks
  1. Best Overall: AMEX Airpoints Platinum - This card is unrivalled for Airpoints earning power and benefits - our review explains more. ​There is a bonus offer for new AMEX Platinum Airpoints card members of 400 bonus Airpoints when you apply by 28 October 2026, are approved and spend $1,500 on your new Amex Airpoints Platinum Card within the first 3 months. New Amex Card Members only.
  2. Best No-Fee Option: AMEX Airpoints Card - no other card offers strong Airpoints earning power with no ongoing card fee. 
  3. Best Visa or Mastercard Option: ANZ Airpoints Visa Platinum - While AMEX has the best earn rate, it’s not accepted everywhere, so a Visa/Mastercard may still suit some users better if they purchase from smaller retailers on a frequent basis.

Alternative to consider: ANZ's Airpoints Visa Platinum now has no currency conversion fee, and Amex charges 2.50%. For anyone choosing a replacement card, that's a strong reason to pick ANZ if they spend overseas.

Know This First: Why has the partnership ended?
  • Kiwibank cited rising costs and changes to interchange fee regulations as key factors undermining the viability of the Airpoints credit card program. In short, new regulations have reduced interchange fees - the small percentage Kiwibank earns from each transaction made on the card. With less revenue per purchase but unchanged costs for purchasing Airpoints from Air New Zealand, the program has become unprofitable at current reward rates.
  • Mark Stephen, Kiwibank's chief customer officer - retail, noted in a May 2025 media report that continuing the program would require reducing the Airpoints earning rates (further) or increasing interest rates, which would disproportionately impact customers who don't pay their balance in full.
  • Instead, Kiwibank is focusing on broader-value products, such as the Platinum Visa, which comes with enhanced travel insurance.
  • Air New Zealand, with 4.8 million Airpoints members, regularly reviews partnerships to ensure value. The airline continues to offer Airpoints-earning credit cards with American Express (AMEX), Westpac, and ANZ, providing alternatives for customers affected by the change. ​

​What Happened to Your Kiwibank Airpoints Credit Card? On 1 November 2025 the programme ended and cards were converted to:
  1. Platinum Visa: Offers international and domestic travel insurance, a lower interest rate, and more interest-free days.
  2. Zero Visa: Features no annual fee and a lower interest rate, aimed at cost-conscious users.

​Advertising Disclaimer: MoneyHub may earn a referral bonus for anyone who's approved through some of the links published in this comparison. Our research and findings are independent of any bank, credit card issuer, or product manufacturer/service provider, and have not been endorsed by any of these entities. Please see our Advertising Policy for more details about how we make money.
Important: Kiwibank’s Unique FX Charges on some NZD Transactions
  • Kiwibank recently updated its debit and credit card fees for everyday accounts, removing 12 fees and reducing the debit card International transaction fee from 2.5% to 1.85%. At the same time, they have started charging an International Transaction Fee on all transactions processed overseas.
  • This includes transactions in NZD from merchants such as online gambling companies, Netflix, Airbnb, Google, and most international airlines. This fee has surprised some Kiwibank customers, who first alerted us to it in early December 2025.  
  
We asked Kiwibank to explain their reasoning for this fee - this is their response: 
"At Kiwibank, our decisions are guided by our Purpose of Kiwi making Kiwi better off. Our recent changes to our debit and credit card fee structure deliver more value to the greatest number of customers".  

“The 1.85% fee on transactions processed overseas reflects the real costs incurred when payments are routed through international networks, even if the transaction is shown in NZD".  

“We understand this fee may be unexpected for some customers, even after communications about the changes, and it's not always obvious where merchants choose to process your transactions. More international merchants are processing payments locally, for which there is no charge – this includes the likes of Temu, Trip.com, Qantas and Uber; if you're unsure, it's best to check with the merchant".  

“These updates are designed to rebalance fees in a way that benefits the greatest number of customers, while encouraging more international merchants to process payments locally - supporting New Zealand's economy through increased tax contributions, local jobs and stronger consumer protections, ultimately making Kiwi better off". 

Our View: We appreciate Kiwibank's transparency regarding this fee, but remind Kiwibank customers that it is a unique fee charged by Kiwibank. Other banks and cards don't currently charge for NZD transactions processed overseas. 

This arguably makes Kiwibank less competitive when goods and services are priced in NZD and processed overseas, as the cardholder will incur the 1.85% fee.  
  
This fee, as recently shared by a MoneyHub reader, amounted to $90+ on a $5,000 Airbnb booking for a week at a central North Island lake resort. To reinforce the point, Kiwibank is the only NZ bank that charges such a fee. ​

Alternative Airpoints-Earning Credit Cards

​To continue earning Airpoints and Status Points, there are three options; switch to an Airpoints-earning credit card from AMEX, Westpac or ANZ. We compare the options below, and our Air New Zealand Airpoints credit cards guide covers these cards and other options (such as the zero-fee AMEX Airpoints Card).
Card
Earn Rate
Annual Fee
Bonus Offer
Lounge Access
AMEX Airpoints Platinum
1 Airpoint/$70 spend
and
$250 = 1 Status Point
$195
400 Airpoints
​Yes (4 passes)
Westpac Airpoints Platinum Mastercard
1 Airpoint/$110 spend (then $220 after $7,000 monthly spend)
and
​$225 = 1 Status Point
$125
None
No
Westpac Airpoints World
1 Airpoint/$95 spend(then $190 after $15,000 monthly spend)
​and
​$225 = 1 Status Point
$310
​None
Yes (Priority Pass)
ANZ Airpoints Visa Platinum
1 Airpoint/$110 spend
and
Cardholders earn 50% bonus Status Points on top of the Status Points earned on qualifying flights with Air New Zealand. ​There is no Status Points per spend (unlike the other cards).
$150
None
No
AMEX Airpoints Card
1 Airpoint/$100 spend

​No Status Points
$0
50 Airpoints
No
Notes:
  • Earn rates and bonuses are based on information from bank websites and recent reviews.
  • Interest rates apply to unpaid balances; paying your balance in full monthly avoids interest costs.

Which Card Is Right for You?
  • Frequent Flyers and High Spenders: The AMEX Airpoints Platinum Card offers the fastest earning rate (1 Airpoint per $70) and premium perks, such as lounge access and comprehensive travel insurance, making it ideal for those who spend heavily and travel frequently. The $195 annual fee is offset by the 400 bonus Airpoints welcome offer.
  • Budget-Conscious Travellers: The AMEX Airpoints Card has no annual fee and a decent earn rate (1 Airpoint per $100), perfect for those who want Airpoints without upfront costs.
  • Best Visa or Mastercard Option: ANZ Airpoints Visa Platinum - While AMEX has the best earn rate, it’s not accepted everywhere, so a Visa/Mastercard may still suit some users better if they purchase from smaller retailers on a frequent basis.

Key Considerations When Choosing a New Airpoints Credit Card

Before you make a decision, we suggest considering the following:
  • Earn Rate vs Fees: Higher earn rates (e.g., AMEX Airpoints Platinum) come with slightly higher annual fees, as well as many other benefits.
  • Airpoints Expiry: All listed Airpoints credit cards (other than the free AMEX card) offer non-expiring Airpoints, a crucial perk that prevents Airpoints from expiring (standard Airpoints expire after four years without an eligible card in use).
  • Additional Perks: Look for travel insurance, Koru membership benefits, or lounge access if you travel frequently. AMEX cards stand out for travel insurance, and our dedicated guide to the policy explains what you get and why many cardholders rely on the cover and avoid the cost of taking out standalone cover. ​​

If you don't plan to replace your Kiwibank Airpoints credit card:
  1. Check Your Airpoints Balance: Log into your Air New Zealand Airpoints account via the Air NZ app or website to review your Airpoints and Status Points. Redeem Airpoints for flights, One-up bids, or Airpoints Store purchases if you're close to expiry or prefer not to switch cards.​
  2. Review Kiwibank's Platinum Visa: Review the enhanced Platinum Visa's benefits (e.g., domestic travel insurance) to decide if it suits your needs post-transition. If not, consider the Zero Visa, which has no annual fee.
Two Important Considerations Before Considering a Switch to AMEX:

1) AMEX Acceptance in New Zealand
  • While American Express is widely accepted throughout New Zealand at major retailers, supermarkets, and online merchants, it's not universal, as our dedicated guide outlines.
  • Smaller cafes, local shops, and some service providers may not accept AMEX - to ensure a hassle-free experience, we suggest keeping a Visa or Mastercard debit card as a backup for situations like these.
  • The good news? With Apple Pay and Google Pay integration, AMEX acceptance continues to grow, and you'll find it works at most places where you do your regular spending – from Woolworths and PAK'nSAVE to Bunnings, BP, and Air New Zealand.

2) Credit Card Applications for Asset-Rich New Zealanders
  • From time to time, we hear from older New Zealanders who are self-described as "asset-rich" – perhaps owning their home mortgage-free or having substantial investments – but lack regular employment income, being declined for credit cards by banks and AMEX.
  • While this can be frustrating when you have significant wealth but no salary, we understand banks' and AMEX's positions from a risk-management perspective.
  • Credit decisions are typically based on regular income streams rather than asset holdings, which makes sense from a lending risk standpoint, even if it feels unfair to those affected.
  • However, the good news is that we are hearing more reports of retired New Zealanders (with income beyond NZ Super, such as dividends and rental income) having their AMEX applications approved. ​

Tips to Maximise Airpoints Without a Credit Card

​If you prefer not to switch to another Airpoints credit card, you can still earn Airpoints through other methods:
  • Fly with Air New Zealand or Partners: Earn Airpoints on eligible Air New Zealand flights, Star Alliance partners, or other airline partners (e.g., Singapore Airlines, United Airlines, Air Canada, Air China, etc).
  • Shop at Airpoints Partners: Earn Airpoints at retailers like New World supermarkets, Z, or the Airpoints Online Store for online purchases, where you'll earn based on how much you spend.
  • Book Travel Services: Use Air New Zealand's booking engine for hotels or rent cars via Air New Zealand, but check with websites such as Booking.com and Kayak.com to ensure the pricing is competitive.
  • Sharepoints: You can sign up for Sharepoints and encourage family members to use your Airpoints for bookings, maximising value before expiry.​

Replacing Your Kiwibank Airpoints Credit Card: Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for a new Airpoints credit card?

Visit the websites of AMEX, Westpac or ANZ to apply online. The process typically takes 2–3 weeks; you’ll need to be a New Zealand resident, provide proof of income, and meet credit eligibility criteria.

Will my Airpoints expire after the program ends?

​If you don’t switch to another Airpoints-earning card, Airpoints expire four years from the date earned. Check your balance and redeem Airpoints if needed.

Is the Kiwibank Platinum Visa worth keeping?

Whether Kiwibank's Platinum Visa is worth keeping depends on your financial and travel needs. It offers international and domestic travel insurance, which is valuable for frequent travellers, plus a lower interest rate and more interest-free days compared to the Airpoints Platinum Visa.

However, it lacks Airpoints earning, Status Points, and perks like Koru membership discounts, which may be a dealbreaker if you value Air New Zealand rewards. The American Express Airpoints Platinum, which offers superior rewards and travel perks for a $195 annual fee, may be more suitable if you routinely use your Kiwibank Airpoints Platinum card.

Do I need an Airpoints Credit Card?

An Airpoints credit card isn't essential. Still, it's highly beneficial if you want to earn Airpoints and Status Points on everyday spending or maintain an Air New Zealand Airpoints account with non-expiring points.

Without an Airpoints-earning card, your Airpoints expire four years from the date earned, and you'll rely on other methods (e.g., flying with Air New Zealand, shopping at partners like New World or Z) to earn points, which may be slower and less consistent.

Cards like the American Express Airpoints Platinum (1 Airpoint per $70 spent, $195 annual fee) or the no-fee Amex Airpoints Card (1 Airpoint per $100) make earning rewards faster, especially for frequent spenders or travellers.

If you rarely fly or prefer low-cost banking, Kiwibank's Zero Visa or non-rewards cards may suffice, but you'll miss out on Airpoints benefits.

Is it worth the annual fee if I don't fly much?

The value of an Airpoints card's annual fee for infrequent flyers depends on your spending habits, redemption goals, and desired perks. For example, the American Express Airpoints Platinum ($195 annual fee) offers 1 Airpoint per $70 spent, travel insurance, and four lounge passes annually, and a bonus offer for new AMEX Platinum Airpoints card members of 400 bonus Airpoints when you apply by 28 October 2026, are approved and spend $1,500 on your new Amex Airpoints Platinum Card within the first 3 months. New Amex Card Members only.

If you spend $14,000 annually (roughly $1,200 monthly), you'd earn 200 Airpoints, plus the bonus, potentially covering a domestic flight (e.g., Auckland to Wellington, ~100 Airpoints return). The insurance and lounge access add value even for occasional trips.

For minimal travel, the no-fee Amex Airpoints Card (1 Airpoint per $100) is a better fit, earning 140 Airpoints on $14,000 spend without upfront costs. If Airpoints aren't a priority, Kiwibank's Zero Visa (no fee, no rewards) may be a more cost-effective option. Use the Air New Zealand Airpoints calculator to estimate earnings based on your budget.

Can I keep earning Status Points without a credit card?

Yes, but it’s slower. Status Points are earned primarily through Air New Zealand or Star Alliance flights (based on fare class and distance) - Air New Zealand's dedicated tool outlines what you'll earn. Non-flight options, like Airpoints partner spending, don’t accrue Status Points. An Airpoints-earning card like the American Express Airpoints Platinum (15 Status Points per $2,500 spent) is one way to maintain or achieve Air NZ Koru Gold, Platinum and Black status.

Our Conclusion

  • The end of the Kiwibank and Air New Zealand Airpoints credit card partnership is a significant change for loyal customers, but it's not the end of your Airpoints journey, and arguably, you'll be better off should you migrate to an AMEX card given the boost in earning rates and benefits.
  • By switching to an alternative card from American Express, Westpac, or ANZ, you can continue earning Airpoints and Status Points with perks like non-expiring Airpoints and travel insurance.
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