Palmerston North

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ATMs

Access to cash withdrawals through Automated Teller Machines located across the city.

Sections

1. Currency Used in Palmerston North

  • The official currency in Palmerston North, as in the rest of New Zealand, is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD), often symbolized as $ or NZ$.
  • Banknotes are available in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100, while coins come in 10c, 20c, 50c, $1, and $2.

2. ATM Withdrawal Procedures

  • Step 1: Locate an ATM (see section below for common locations).
  • Step 2: Insert your debit or credit card into the ATM. Most ATMs in New Zealand accept cards with Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, and Cirrus logos.
  • Step 3: Select your preferred language (English is the default, but some ATMs may offer other language options).
  • Step 4: Enter your 4-digit PIN. Ensure you shield the keypad while entering your PIN for security.
  • Step 5: Choose the type of transaction (e.g., "Withdrawal").
  • Step 6: Select the account type (e.g., "Cheque," "Savings," or "Credit"). If you're unsure, select "Credit" for international cards.
  • Step 7: Enter the amount you wish to withdraw. Note that ATMs typically dispense cash in multiples of $20.
  • Step 8: Confirm the transaction and collect your cash, card, and receipt.

3. Costs Involved

  • ATM Fees for Tourists/Immigrants:
    • Local ATM Fee: Most New Zealand ATMs do not charge a fee for using a New Zealand-issued card. However, if you are using an international card, the ATM operator may charge a fee (usually between NZD $3โ€“$5 per transaction).
    • Foreign Transaction Fee: Your home bank may charge a foreign transaction fee (typically 1โ€“3% of the withdrawal amount) and/or a currency conversion fee.
    • Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC): Some ATMs may offer to charge you in your home currency instead of NZD. This is usually more expensive due to poor exchange rates. Always choose to be charged in NZD for better rates.
  • Daily Withdrawal Limits: Most ATMs in New Zealand have a daily withdrawal limit of NZD $800โ€“$1,000. Your home bank may also impose its own limits.

4. Important Considerations for Tourists and Immigrants

  • Card Compatibility: Ensure your card is enabled for international use before traveling. Most ATMs in Palmerston North accept Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, and Cirrus cards. American Express cards may not be as widely accepted.
  • PIN Format: New Zealand ATMs require a 4-digit PIN. If your card uses a longer PIN, contact your bank to change it before traveling.
  • Currency Exchange Rates: The exchange rate applied to your withdrawal is determined by your home bank, not the ATM operator. Check with your bank for the current rates.
  • Safety Tips:
    • Use ATMs located in well-lit, secure areas, especially at night.
    • Avoid accepting help from strangers while using an ATM.
    • Count your cash discreetly and store it securely before leaving the ATM.
  • Cashless Payments: New Zealand is a highly cashless society. Most businesses in Palmerston North accept EFTPOS (Electronic Funds Transfer at Point of Sale) and contactless payments (e.g., PayWave, Apple Pay, Google Pay). Carrying large amounts of cash is generally unnecessary.

5. Locations of ATMs in Palmerston North

ATMs are widely available throughout Palmerston North, particularly in the following areas:

a. City Centre (CBD)

  • The Square: The central hub of Palmerston North, The Square, has several ATMs from major banks, including ANZ, ASB, Westpac, BNZ (Bank of New Zealand), and Kiwibank.
  • Shopping Malls:
    • The Plaza Shopping Centre (84 The Square) has multiple ATMs from major banks.
    • Downtown Shopping Centre (Main Street) also has ATMs available.
  • Supermarkets: Large supermarkets like Countdown, New World, and Pakโ€™nSave often have ATMs near their entrances.

b. Suburban Areas

  • Terrace End: A residential and shopping area with ATMs located near local shops and supermarkets.
  • Hokowhitu: ATMs can be found near the Hokowhitu Village shopping area.
  • Milson and Kelvin Grove: These suburbs have ATMs near local shopping centres and petrol stations.

c. Petrol Stations

  • Many petrol stations, such as BP, Z Energy, and Mobil, have ATMs on-site. These are convenient for quick cash withdrawals while traveling.

d. Banks and Branches

  • Major banks in Palmerston North have branches with ATMs available 24/7. Some of the key locations include:
    • ANZ Bank: 287-293 Broadway Avenue
    • ASB Bank: 17 The Square
    • Westpac Bank: 1-7 Fitzherbert Avenue
    • BNZ (Bank of New Zealand): 14 The Square
    • Kiwibank: Inside PostShops (e.g., 260 Church Street)

e. Airport

  • Palmerston North Airport has ATMs available in the arrivals and departures areas for travelers needing cash upon arrival or before departure.

6. Additional Tips

  • Emergency Cash: If you lose your card or need emergency cash, Western Union and MoneyGram services are available in Palmerston North for international money transfers.
  • Banking Hours: While ATMs operate 24/7, bank branches are typically open Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Some branches may have limited hours on Saturdays.
  • Contactless Cards: If you prefer not to use ATMs, many businesses accept contactless payments, which are often more convenient and secure.

By following this guide, you should have no trouble accessing cash and managing your finances while in Palmerston North. Let me know if you need further assistance!