Best Crypto Exchanges in New Zealand

Summary: In New Zealand, to invest in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, it is required to use a New Zealand-based platform that complies with the regulatory guidelines established by the New Zealand Financial Markets Authority (FMA). These authorized exchanges allow investors to deposit New Zealand Dollars (NZD) and other currencies via local bank transfer, debit card, credit cards, and additional payment methods.

To help you begin your cryptocurrency adventure in New Zealand, we have evaluated the top 5 trading platforms throughout the country. These exchanges are considered the most reliable and reputable options available:

1. SwyftX - Best Overall Exchange in New Zealand
2. OKX - Best Alternative Exchange for NZ
3. Independent Reserve - Best Institutional Crypto Exchange
4. Bybit - Best Non-KYC Crypto Exchange
5. Uphold - Best Global Crypto Exchange
   

Top Trading Platforms in NZ

We examined more than 20 cryptocurrency platforms to identify the top choices for New Zealand investors. In our assessment, we considered vital factors such as compliance with New Zealand regulations, the range of assets offered, user-friendliness, NZD deposit options, fees, and other essential aspects. Based on our findings, here is a detailed analysis of the top five exchanges in New Zealand.

‍

1. SwyftX

Swyftx is an Australian and New Zealand-native Cryptocurrency exchange that offers a simple and intuitive interface, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced traders. It is considered the best and most secure digital asset trading platform in New Zealand as it has been awarded the ISO27001 Standard Security Certificate. It is also the only exchange on this list that offers phone support for Kiwi investors.

• Fees: Deposits and withdrawals are free. Trading fee is 0.6%.
• Supported Cryptos: 310+ Cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Regulated with AUSTRAC in Australia & NZ.
• Customer Support Options: 24/7 support via live chat, email, phone and social media.
• NZD Deposit Methods: PayID, POLi, Bank Transfer & Credit/Debit Card.

‍

2. OKX

OKX is a global Cryptocurrency exchange based in Seychelles but offers services to New Zealand residents and accepts multiple types of NZD payment methods. It offers a user-friendly interface and various features such as multiple order types, advanced trading tools and charts, staking and loan services and more. It also provides robust security measures including proof of reserves, which highlights users funds are held 1:1.

• Fees: Deposits & withdrawals are free. 0% maker fees & 0.2% taker fees with variable spreads depending on the token.
• Supported Cryptos: 340+ Cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Regulated by Hong Kong & Maltese authorities and offers VFAA compliant trading services.
• Customer Support Options: 24/7 support via live chat, email and social media.
• NZD Deposit Methods: Bank Transfer, Debit Card, Credit Card, Wise, PayPal, SEPA, Skrill, Paysera, Zen & Apple Pay.

‍

3. Independent Reserve

Independent Reserve is an Australian Cryptocurrency trading platform that offers services to NZ residents and accepts NZD deposits. It provides a secure and regulated environment for users to manage their digital assets and has also obtained the ISO27001 Standard Security Certificate. It is the best platform for institutional level clients as it offers an OTC desk with personal account managers that can be reached by phone.

• Fees: Deposits and withdrawals are free. Trading fee is 0.5% but gets as low as 0.02% for users with high monthly trading volumes.
• Supported Cryptos: 30 Cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Regulated by AUSTRAC in Australia & NZ.
• Customer Support Options: 24/7 support via live chat, email, social media and phone (for institutional clients).
• NZD Deposit Methods: PayID, Osko, Bank Transfer & SWIFT.

‍

4. Bybit

Bybit is the most popular derivatives trading platform in the world for many reasons including the fact its a Non-KYC exchange (does not require identity verification) and offers up to 100x leverage on futures contracts. It is a feature-rich exchange that offers multiple trading types (spot, futures, margin & options), 6 staking options, an NFT marketplace, loans and lending services plus much more.

• Fees: Deposits and withdrawals are free. The spot trading fee is 0.1% and the maker/taker rebate is 0.01%/0.06%.
• Supported Cryptos: 400+ Cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Not regulated in any country (hence no KYC requirements).
• Customer Support Options: 24/7 support via live chat, email and social media.
• NZD Deposit Methods: Bank Transfer, Debit Card, Credit Card, Zen, Wise, Neteller & Skrill.

‍

5. Uphold

Uphold is one of the most reliable and trusted Crypto exchanges globally and is the only one to provide regularly audited proof of reserves, showing that they always hold users funds 1:1. Although they are supported in New Zealand and accepts NZD deposits, they do not support bank transfers. In addition to trading, users can stake over 30 tokens and spend all 250+ Cryptos with the Uphold Crypto Card.

• Fees: Free withdrawals and deposits on all methods except card deposits, which are subject to a 2.49% fee. Crypto trading fees vary between 0.8% - 1.2%.
• Supported Cryptos: 250+ Cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Regulated by the FinCEN.
• Customer Support Options: 24/7 support via live chat, email, phone, and social media.
• NZD Deposit Methods: Credit/Debit Card, Google Pay & Apple Pay.

Is Crypto Legal in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, investing in Cryptocurrencies is legal and is overseen by the Financial Markets Authority (FMA). The FMA has established guidelines for digital asset exchanges and service providers to follow to ensure the protection of investors and to prevent money laundering and other financial crimes.

Additionally, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand has issued statements recognising the potential benefits of Cryptocurrencies and has not placed any restrictions on their use or ownership. As long as individuals and businesses comply with these guidelines and regulations, they are free to invest in Crypto in New Zealand.

‍

How to Buy Bitcoin and Crypto in New Zealand

New Zealand's forward-thinking stance on cryptocurrencies makes digital asset acquisition straightforward. Here's a concise guide for purchasing crypto in New Zealand:

1. Exchange Selection: Choose an FMA-regulated platform like SwyftX, OKX, or Independent Reserve, taking into account features, supported assets, and fees.
2. Account Creation: Register on the platform, provide personal information, and complete KYC and AML verification.
3. NZD Deposit: Deposit NZD via bank transfer, online banking, or credit card.
4. Crypto Purchase: Access trading, select your desired crypto, and place an order.
5. Coin Security: Transfer acquired assets to a private wallet for protection.

New Zealand's regulatory framework provides a secure crypto trading environment for both novices and seasoned investors.

‍

Bottom Line

In conclusion, New Zealand's progressive approach to cryptocurrency regulation offers a safe and secure environment for investors looking to dive into the world of digital assets. By choosing a reputable, FMA-regulated exchange, such as SwyftX, OKX, Independent Reserve, Bybit, or Uphold, investors can confidently trade and invest in a wide range of cryptocurrencies.

Remember to prioritize features, supported assets, fees, and deposit methods when selecting a platform. With proper research and adherence to the country's guidelines, both beginners and experienced traders can enjoy the potential benefits of cryptocurrency investments in New Zealand.