Top Crypto Platforms in New Zealand

The Financial Markets Authority (FMA) actively regulates cryptocurrency trading platforms to enhance consumer protection and uphold financial market stability. We have identified the top exchanges in New Zealand by comparing their fees, features, security, and NZD deposit options. Below is a comparison table of the most trusted crypto exchanges for Kiwi investors.

1. Independent Reserve

Independent Reserve is New Zealand's premier cryptocurrency exchange, especially suited for institutional investors, trusts, professional traders, and affluent individuals. Since launching in 2013, the platform has built a loyal user base of over 250,000 customers across NZ and Australia.

Key offerings include an OTC (over-the-counter) desk designed for substantial crypto transactions. Additionally, it provides advanced account management features, allowing multi-tiered access that is ideal for financial advisors, accountants, and family offices to manage client portfolios.

With strict adherence to compliance and security protocols, Independent Reserve holds ISO 27001 certification. Customer assets are meticulously secured in offline cold storage, separated from operational funds, and regularly audited to reinforce transparency and trustworthiness.

Platform Highlights:

• Fees: Trading fees from 0.5% down to 0.02% based on trading volume.
• Supported Assets: 30+ cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Registered Financial Service Provider (FSP1003272) (NZBN: 9429050598564).
• NZD Deposit Methods: Bank transfer, POLi, debit/credit cards, SWIFT, PayID.

2. Binance

Binance has become a top choice for traders in New Zealand due to its extensive range of trading options and innovative features like copy and demo trading. Since its launch in 2017, it has grown into the largest global crypto exchange, now trusted by over 270 million users in 180 countries.

The exchange offers over 400 cryptocurrencies and versatile trading products like spot, margin, and futures markets. It also provides an integrated trading-bot marketplace, enabling automated strategies such as grid trading, arbitrage, and rebalancing, suitable for traders of all experience levels.

Additionally, Binance Earn presents flexible and locked staking products, offering attractive returns across 300+ crypto assets. The user-friendly interface, robust security with cold-storage solutions, and regulatory compliance ensure an exceptional trading environment for Kiwi investors.

Platform Highlights:

• Fees: Low fees from 0.1%; further discounts available for BNB token holders.
• Supported Assets: Over 400 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Registered Financial Service Provider (FSP1003864) operating under Investbybit Limited.
• NZD Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay.

3. Bybit

Bybit has grown into a leading derivatives exchange, popular due to its extensive range of over 1900 cryptocurrencies for spot trading and 400+ derivatives contracts with leverage options up to 200x. Since its establishment in 2018, it has attracted more than 72 million registered users worldwide.

The platform offers advanced derivatives products, including perpetual contracts, futures, and options trading. Traders can use Bybit’s sophisticated trading tools, such as customisable trading bots, AI-driven market insights (TradeGPT), and user-friendly copy trading features.

It places significant emphasis on security, employing multi-signature cold storage, two-factor authentication, and rigorous risk management protocols. The exchange also offers additional products like crypto-backed loans, structured savings accounts, and Bybit Card, a crypto debit card.

Platform Highlights:

• Fees: Spot trading fees are 0.1%.
• Supported Assets: Over 1,900 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Internationally licensed and accessible from New Zealand.
• NZD Deposit Methods: Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, credit card, debit card.

4. Swyftx

Swyftx is a popular exchange among beginners in New Zealand, offering a simple yet powerful platform. Since its establishment, it has attracted over 1.1 million users across New Zealand and Australia, standing out with its intuitive interface and extensive educational resources.

The exchange supports over 440 cryptocurrencies for spot trading but does not allow futures. Newcomers appreciate features like Demo Mode, which allows risk-free practice trading with $10,000 in virtual funds, and Auto Invest, a convenient tool for scheduling recurring crypto purchases.

Swyftx also excels in customer experience by providing responsive support, comprehensive guides, educational podcasts ("Tapping Into Crypto"), and real-time market news. Security is prioritised through advanced verification methods, two-factor authentication, and secure storage solutions.

Platform Highlights:

• Fees: Trading fees are 0.6% per transaction.
• Supported Assets: Over 440 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Registered Financial Service Provider (FSP1000861) in New Zealand.
• NZD Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, credit cards, debit cards.

5. OKX

OKX is a globally recognised cryptocurrency exchange that is popular among experienced and beginner traders alike. Since its launch in 2013, OKX has attracted 30 million customers globally and stands out with its powerful trading tools, intuitive interface, and comprehensive DeFi offerings.

The exchange supports 350 cryptocurrencies for spot and derivatives trading, including perpetual futures, expiry futures, and options contracts. Notably, OKX provides advanced automated trading bots, such as Spot Grid, Futures Grid, and Dollar-Cost Averaging (DCA) bots.

Additional features include extensive earning opportunities through Simple Earn, Structured Products, On-chain Earn, crypto-backed loans, and staking services. It also offers deep liquidity pools for institutional trading, ultra-low latency API connectivity, and multi-leg options strategies. 

Platform Highlights:

• Fees: Spot trading fees from 0.08% maker and 0.1% taker.
• Supported Assets: Over 350 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Operated by OKX Australia Pty Ltd (ABN 22 636 269 040) and OKX Australia Financial Pty Ltd (AFSL 379035).
• NZD Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, debit cards, credit cards, Apple Pay.

6. Easy Crypto

Easy Crypto is a leading crypto exchange that is ideal for beginners. With over 100,000 local customers, it is a trusted gateway to cryptocurrencies, boasting rapid order processing, local banking integration, and rigorous adherence to anti-money laundering (AML) regulations.

It supports over 160 cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, XRP, and NZDD, New Zealand’s own stablecoin. Distinctive features include Auto-Buy for hassle-free dollar-cost averaging, an Over-the-Counter (OTC) trading desk, and a multi-chain Easy Crypto Wallet.

The platform prioritises customer experience through local support, comprehensive educational resources, real-time market tracking, and accessible crypto news. Security is paramount, supported by SOC 2 Type 1 compliance, stringent account verification procedures, and secure cloud backups.

Platform Highlights:

• Fees: 0.89% trading fee and 0.4% forex fee.
• Supported Assets: Over 160 cryptocurrencies.
• Regulation & Licensing: Registered Financial Services Provider (FSP691871) in New Zealand. 
• NZD Deposit Methods: Local bank transfers, credit cards, debit cards.

Is Crypto Regulated in New Zealand?

New Zealand's approach to cryptocurrency regulation is characterised by a technology-neutral stance, applying existing financial laws to digital assets without introducing crypto-specific legislation. 

The Financial Markets Authority (FMA) oversees crypto-related financial services, ensuring compliance with the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013 (FMCA), which mandates fair dealing, disclosure, and governance standards for financial products, including certain crypto assets.

To combat financial crimes, the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act 2009 (AML/CFT Act) applies to virtual asset service providers (VASPs), requiring them to implement customer due diligence and transaction monitoring procedures.

New Zealand plans to implement the OECD's Crypto-Asset Reporting Framework (CARF) by April 2026, mandating crypto service providers to report user transactions to the the Inland Revenue Department. This initiative aims to align with global efforts to address tax challenges posed by digital assets. 

How is Crypto Taxed in New Zealand?

Cryptocurrency taxation in New Zealand is governed by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD), which classifies digital assets as property. Consequently, profits from trading, mining, and staking are subject to income tax, with rates ranging from 10.5% to 39%, depending on the individual's total annual income.

Here's an overview of cryptocurrency taxation in New Zealand:

• Income Tax: Profits from cryptocurrency transactions are considered income and are taxed at the individual's marginal tax rate, which ranges from 10.5% to 39%.
• ‍Business Tax: Mining, staking, or receiving crypto as payment for goods or services is treated as business income. The income is taxed at the applicable business tax rate, and you may be required to register for Goods and Services Tax (GST) if your annual turnover exceeds NZD 60,000. 

The IRD has increased its scrutiny of crypto transactions, obtaining data from exchanges to ensure compliance. Investors are advised to report all crypto-related income accurately to avoid penalties.

‍Cryptocurrency Adoption in New Zealand

Cryptocurrency adoption in New Zealand is gaining significant traction, supported by clearer regulatory guidance, expanding interest from institutions, and increased awareness among businesses and individuals. 

By the end of 2025, New Zealand’s cryptocurrency market is expected to generate US$174.1 million in revenue. User adoption is likewise rising, with around 1.94 million New Zealanders projected to actively participate in crypto markets by 2026, reflecting 34.78% of the population.

How to Buy Bitcoin in New Zealand

Kiwi investors looking to buy Bitcoin should select FMA-regulated cryptocurrency exchanges. Here’s a step-by-step guide for purchasing Bitcoin in New Zealand:

1. Choose Exchange: Choose an exchange registered with the FMA. Popular local platforms include Easy Crypto, Swyftx, Independent Reserve, and Binance.
2. Sign Up: Register on the chosen platform and complete mandatory Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures. You'll typically need identification documents such as a New Zealand passport or driver’s licence and proof of your address.
3. Fund Your Account: Deposit New Zealand dollars (NZD) into your account. Most exchanges support convenient methods like bank transfers, POLi payments, credit/debit cards, or direct bank deposits.
4. Purchase Bitcoin: Once your account has funds, locate the Bitcoin trading section on the platform. Enter the NZD amount or the amount you want to buy, review the associated fees, and confirm your transaction.

After completing your purchase, transferring your Bitcoin into a secure personal wallet is advisable. Hardware or reputable software wallets offer superior protection, ensuring you maintain control over your cryptocurrency.

Final Thoughts

When choosing a cryptocurrency exchange in New Zealand, prioritise platforms that align with your trading experience, security preferences, and investment goals. 

Beginners may find Swyftx and Easy Crypto intuitive and helpful, while experienced investors looking for advanced trading options should consider Independent Reserve, Bybit, or OKX. Ultimately, selecting an FMA-regulated exchange that offers secure NZD deposit methods and strong compliance standards will ensure a safe crypto trading experience in New Zealand.