New Zealand Tax

New Zealand Tax

Understanding the tax system

If you stay for more than six months in New Zealand or have a enduring relationship with New Zealand as defined by the Inland Revenue Department, you are considered a "resident" for tax purposes.

Tax file number

When starting a job, you are required to produce your tax file number. Applications for tax file numbers can be made at the Inland Revenue Department.

Resident withholding tax (RWT)

Any money held in a New Zealand bank account will have RWT deducted from it by the bank on behalf of the government. The rate of deduction will be higher if no tax file number is produced and this applies even to people who are not working.

Temporary visitors

People who stay in New Zealand for less than six months will be classified as "non-residents" for tax purposes but will be required to pay tax on any income earned while in New Zealand.
For more information, please visit www.ird.govt.nz.

The financial year

The financial year runs from the 1st of April to the 31st of March.