American Express Airpoints Platinum Card Review
New Zealand's fastest Airpoints earning credit card
Key Features
- 1 Airpoints Dollar per $1 spent everywhere
- No Airpoints expiry
- Comprehensive travel insurance
- Airport lounge access
Quick Stats
1. Card Overview
The American Express Airpoints Platinum Card stands as New Zealand's premier Airpoints earning credit card, offering an unmatched 1 Airpoints Dollar per $1 spent across all purchase categories. This card represents the gold standard for frequent travelers who prioritize Air New Zealand Airpoints accumulation above all else.
Unlike other rewards cards that offer tiered earning rates or category restrictions, the Amex Airpoints Platinum delivers consistent, top-tier earning regardless of where you spend. Whether you're purchasing groceries, fuel, dining out, or booking travel, every dollar spent earns you a full Airpoints Dollar - a earning rate that remains unmatched in the New Zealand market.
Key Card Details
Annual Fee: $375
Purchase Rate: 21.99%
Foreign Currency Fee: 2.50%
Minimum Credit Limit: $2,500
Airpoints Rate: 1 per $1 spent
Airpoints Expiry: Never expire
Network: American Express
Maximum Credit Limit: No preset limit
The card's $375 annual fee positions it firmly in the premium category, but this cost can be quickly offset by the accelerated Airpoints earning - especially for households spending $15,000+ annually. The comprehensive travel benefits package, including airport lounge access and extensive travel insurance, adds significant value for frequent travelers.
As an American Express card, acceptance in New Zealand is excellent at major retailers, online merchants, and most hospitality venues. However, some smaller businesses may not accept Amex, making this card ideal as a primary card for frequent travelers who also carry a Visa or Mastercard for universal acceptance.
2. Airpoints Earning Structure
Earning Rate Breakdown
The beauty of the Amex Airpoints Platinum lies in its simplicity - there are no complex earning tiers, category caps, or quarterly bonus rotations to track. Every single dollar you spend earns exactly one Airpoints Dollar, making it incredibly easy to calculate your potential earnings and plan your Airpoints strategy.
Real-World Earning Examples
Monthly Spending: $3,000
- • Groceries: $800 → 800 Airpoints
- • Fuel: $300 → 300 Airpoints
- • Dining: $400 → 400 Airpoints
- • Other: $1,500 → 1,500 Airpoints
- Total: 3,000 Airpoints/month
Annual Projection
- • Annual spend: $36,000
- • Annual Airpoints: 36,000
- • Less annual fee: $375
- • Airpoints value: ~$720
- Net benefit: $345
Airpoints Value and Redemption
Airpoints Dollars typically provide the best value when redeemed for Air New Zealand flights, where they're generally worth between 1.8-2.2 cents each. This means the 1:1 earning rate effectively provides a 1.8-2.2% return on spending - excellent for a flat-rate card.
Airpoints Redemption Examples
- • Auckland to Wellington: ~5,000-8,000 Airpoints
- • Auckland to Sydney: ~15,000-25,000 Airpoints
- • Auckland to London: ~80,000-120,000 Airpoints
- • Airpoints Store merchandise: 1 cent per Airpoints
Unlike many rewards programs, Airpoints Dollars earned through the Amex Platinum never expire, providing flexibility in accumulation and redemption timing. This is particularly valuable for infrequent travelers who prefer to save for larger redemptions.
3. Fees and Costs
Annual Fees
Interest Rates
Transaction Fees
Other Fees
Fee Analysis and Break-Even Point
The $375 annual fee is substantial but becomes worthwhile for cardholders who can maximize the 1:1 Airpoints earning rate. Assuming Airpoints are worth 2 cents each in flight redemptions, you need to spend $18,750 annually to break even on the annual fee alone through Airpoints earning.
Break-Even Analysis
- • Annual fee: $375
- • Required Airpoints to break even: 18,750 (at 2c value)
- • Required annual spend: $18,750
- • Monthly spend needed: $1,563
However, the break-even calculation improves significantly when factoring in the card's comprehensive benefits package, including airport lounge access, travel insurance, and purchase protection - benefits that could easily add $200+ in value annually for frequent travelers.
4. Benefits and Perks
Beyond the industry-leading Airpoints earning rate, the Amex Airpoints Platinum Card provides a comprehensive suite of premium benefits designed for frequent travelers and high-value cardholders.
Travel Benefits
- Airport Lounge AccessPriority Pass with 2 complimentary visits annually
- Travel InsuranceComprehensive international and domestic coverage
- Hotel StatusComplimentary elite status with hotel partners
- Car Rental BenefitsInsurance and elite status with major providers
Purchase Protection
- Extended WarrantyAdditional year on manufacturer warranty
- Purchase ProtectionCoverage against theft/damage for 90 days
- Return ProtectionRefund for items retailers won't accept
- Online Shopping ProtectionSafeKey security for online transactions
Premium Service Features
Entertainment and Dining
Cardholders receive access to exclusive entertainment presales and dining benefits through American Express's global network. This includes priority booking for concerts, theatre shows, and sporting events, plus special dining experiences at partner restaurants.
Additional Perks
- • Exclusive event invitations
- • Partner merchant offers
- • Golf course access benefits
- • Luxury shopping experiences
- • Wine and dining events
- • Travel planning assistance
The combination of these premium benefits creates significant added value beyond the Airpoints earning, particularly for cardholders who regularly travel and appreciate premium service experiences.
5. Travel Insurance
The Amex Airpoints Platinum Card provides some of New Zealand's most comprehensive complimentary travel insurance coverage, potentially saving cardholders hundreds of dollars annually in standalone travel insurance premiums.
International Travel Insurance
- Medical expenses $5 million
- Emergency evacuation $1 million
- Luggage & personal effects $10,000
- Travel delay $2,000
- Trip cancellation $50,000
Domestic Travel Insurance
- Medical expenses $250,000
- Emergency accommodation $1,500
- Luggage & personal effects $5,000
- Travel delay $1,000
- Trip cancellation $25,000
Coverage Activation and Requirements
Important Coverage Conditions
- • Coverage activates when you charge travel expenses to the card
- • Minimum $250 travel expense required for international trips
- • Coverage extends to cardholder, spouse, and dependent children
- • Pre-existing medical conditions have a 180-day stability period
- • Age limits apply for certain coverage types (typically under 80)
Additional Insurance Benefits
Beyond travel insurance, the card provides additional insurance coverage that adds significant value:
Car Rental Insurance
- • Collision damage waiver
- • Theft protection
- • Covers excess on rental agreements
- • Available in NZ and internationally
Transit Accident Insurance
- • $500,000 coverage maximum
- • Covers public transport accidents
- • Includes commercial flights
- • 24/7 worldwide coverage
Insurance Value Analysis
The comprehensive travel insurance alone can justify much of the card's annual fee. Quality annual travel insurance policies typically cost $200-400+ for similar coverage levels, making this benefit extremely valuable for frequent travelers.
Annual Insurance Value
- • Comprehensive travel insurance: $250-350 equivalent
- • Car rental insurance: $50-100 per trip saved
- • Purchase protection: $30-50 annual policy equivalent
- • Total estimated value: $330-500 annually
6. Pros and Cons
✓ Advantages
- Unmatched Airpoints earning rate1 Airpoints Dollar per $1 spent everywhere
- Comprehensive travel benefitsInsurance, lounge access, and concierge
- No Airpoints expiryAccumulate at your own pace
- Premium customer service24/7 dedicated platinum support
- No preset spending limitFlexibility for large purchases
- Excellent purchase protectionExtended warranty and purchase insurance
✗ Disadvantages
- High annual fee$375 annually with no first-year waiver
- High interest rates21.99% on purchases and cash advances
- Foreign currency fees2.5% on international transactions
- Limited acceptanceSome smaller merchants don't accept Amex
- High spending requirementNeed $18,750+ annual spend to break even
- Limited to Airpoints earningNo alternative reward options
Overall Assessment
The American Express Airpoints Platinum Card represents the pinnacle of Airpoints earning in New Zealand, but it's clearly designed for a specific market segment: high-spending frequent travelers who prioritize Air New Zealand Airpoints accumulation and value premium service benefits.
The card's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses for its target audience, but the high annual fee and spending requirements mean it's not suitable for casual cardholders or those who don't regularly travel. The key is ensuring you can maximize both the earning rate and the comprehensive benefits package.
7. Comparison with Alternatives
When evaluating the Amex Airpoints Platinum, it's important to compare it against other premium rewards cards available in New Zealand to understand where it excels and where alternatives might be more suitable.
| Feature | Amex Airpoints Platinum | ANZ Airpoints Visa | Kiwibank Airpoints | Westpac Airpoints |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $375 | $150 | $120 | $150 |
| Airpoints Earning | 1 per $1 | 1 per $2.50 | 1 per $2 | 1 per $2 |
| Foreign Fees | 2.5% | 2.1% | 2.1% | 2.1% |
| Travel Insurance | Comprehensive | Basic | Basic | Basic |
| Lounge Access | Yes | No | No | No |
| Network | Amex | Visa | Visa | Visa |
Value Comparison Analysis
For $20,000 Annual Spend
- Amex Airpoints Platinum:
- → 20,000 Airpoints - $375 fee = ~$25 net value*
- ANZ Airpoints Visa:
- → 8,000 Airpoints - $150 fee = $10 net value*
- *Assuming 2c Airpoints value
For $40,000 Annual Spend
- Amex Airpoints Platinum:
- → 40,000 Airpoints - $375 fee = $425 net value*
- ANZ Airpoints Visa:
- → 16,000 Airpoints - $150 fee = $170 net value*
- *Assuming 2c Airpoints value
Non-Airpoints Alternatives
For cardholders not exclusively focused on Airpoints, several cashback and flexible rewards alternatives offer strong value:
Alternative Consideration
- • ANZ Cashback Platinum: Up to 1% cashback, $150 fee
- • TSB Platinum Mastercard: $1 per $100 cashback, $90 fee
- • Westpac Airpoints + Kiwibank Cashback: Two-card strategy
When to Choose Amex Airpoints Platinum
The Amex Airpoints Platinum becomes the clear winner when you: spend $25,000+ annually, fly Air New Zealand regularly, value comprehensive travel benefits, and appreciate premium service. For lower spending levels or infrequent travelers, alternatives like the ANZ or Kiwibank Airpoints cards offer better value propositions.
8. Who Is This Card Best For?
The American Express Airpoints Platinum Card is designed for a specific segment of the New Zealand market. Understanding whether you fit this profile is crucial to maximizing the card's value and ensuring the annual fee is justified.
✓ Ideal Candidates
High Spenders
Individuals or households spending $25,000+ annually on credit cards who can maximize the 1:1 Airpoints earning rate.
Frequent Travelers
Business travelers or leisure travelers who fly Air New Zealand multiple times per year and value comprehensive travel insurance.
Airpoints Collectors
Customers exclusively focused on accumulating Air New Zealand Airpoints for premium redemptions and upgrades.
Premium Service Seekers
Individuals who appreciate premium customer service, concierge access, and exclusive benefits.
Business Owners
Entrepreneurs who can charge business expenses and benefit from comprehensive purchase protection and travel coverage.
✗ Not Suitable For
Low-Volume Spenders
Those spending less than $15,000 annually who won't earn sufficient Airpoints to offset the $375 annual fee.
Infrequent Travelers
Individuals who travel rarely and won't utilize the travel insurance, lounge access, or other travel-focused benefits.
Rate Shoppers
Those who prioritize low interest rates and minimal fees over rewards earning and premium benefits.
Cashback Preferrers
Customers who prefer immediate cashback rewards over airline loyalty points that require redemption planning.
Universal Acceptance Needers
Those who need guaranteed card acceptance everywhere, as some merchants don't accept American Express.
Specific Use Case Examples
Perfect Fit: Business Executive
Profile: Senior manager, $45,000 annual credit card spend, travels domestically monthly and internationally quarterly.
Value: Earns 45,000 Airpoints annually ($900 value), saves $400+ on travel insurance, uses lounge access regularly. Net annual benefit: ~$900+ after fees.
Perfect Fit: High-Income Household
Profile: Dual-income family, $35,000 annual household spend on one card, 2-3 overseas holidays annually.
Value: Earns 35,000 Airpoints annually ($700 value), comprehensive family travel insurance, accumulates for premium cabin upgrades. Net annual benefit: ~$600+ after fees.
Poor Fit: Occasional Traveler
Profile: Average income, $18,000 annual spend, travels internationally once every 2-3 years.
Analysis: Earns 18,000 Airpoints annually ($360 value) but pays $375 fee. Limited travel benefits utilization. Better suited to lower-fee alternatives.
Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- 1. Do you spend $20,000+ annually on credit cards?
- 2. Do you fly Air New Zealand at least 2-3 times per year?
- 3. Do you value comprehensive travel insurance and benefits?
- 4. Are you comfortable with American Express acceptance levels?
- 5. Do you prefer Airpoints over cashback rewards?
If you answered "yes" to 4+ questions, this card likely offers excellent value.
9. Application Process
Applying for the American Express Airpoints Platinum Card is straightforward, but understanding the requirements and process can help ensure a smooth application experience and quick approval.
Eligibility Requirements
- Age & Residency18+ years old, New Zealand resident
- IncomeMinimum $50,000 annual income
- Credit HistoryGood to excellent credit score
- EmploymentStable employment history
Required Documents
- Photo IDDriver's license or passport
- Income VerificationRecent payslips or tax returns
- Bank Statements3 months recent statements
- Address VerificationUtility bill or rates notice
Application Steps
Online Application
Complete the online form on the American Express website. Takes approximately 10-15 minutes.
Document Upload
Upload required documents directly through the secure portal or email them to the verification team.
Credit Assessment
American Express conducts a credit check and reviews your application. This typically takes 1-3 business days.
Approval & Card Delivery
Upon approval, your card is dispatched via courier and typically arrives within 7-10 business days.
Application Tips
Increase Approval Chances
- • Ensure all information is accurate and consistent across documents
- • Apply when you have stable employment and income
- • Pay down existing credit card balances before applying
- • Don't apply for multiple cards simultaneously
- • Consider starting with a lower-tier Amex card if you're new to the brand
After Approval
Immediate Steps
- • Activate your card online or by phone
- • Set up online account access
- • Register for mobile app
- • Update automatic payments if needed
Maximize Benefits
- • Link to your Airpoints account
- • Register for Priority Pass lounge access
- • Understand travel insurance activation
- • Explore exclusive offers and events
10. Frequently Asked Questions
How many Airpoints do I need for a free flight?
Airpoints requirements vary by route and fare type. Typically, Auckland to Wellington requires 5,000-8,000 Airpoints, Auckland to Sydney needs 15,000-25,000 Airpoints, and long-haul flights like Auckland to London require 80,000-120,000 Airpoints. With the 1:1 earning rate, you'd need to spend $5,000-8,000 for a domestic flight.
Is the $375 annual fee charged in the first year?
Yes, the $375 annual fee is charged immediately upon approval and annually thereafter. Unlike some cards, American Express does not typically waive the first-year fee for the Airpoints Platinum Card.
Where is American Express not accepted in New Zealand?
While Amex acceptance has improved significantly, some smaller retailers, cafes, and service providers may not accept it. Government services (like paying rates), some utilities, and smaller regional businesses are most likely to only accept Visa/Mastercard. Major retailers, hotels, restaurants, and online merchants typically accept Amex.
How does the travel insurance activate?
Travel insurance activates when you charge at least $250 of your travel expenses (like flights, accommodation, or tour packages) to your Amex Airpoints Platinum Card. The insurance covers you, your spouse, and dependent children for the duration of the trip.
Can I earn Airpoints on government payments and bill payments?
You earn Airpoints on most purchases, but some exclusions apply. Government payments (taxes, fines), money transfers, cash advances, and gambling transactions typically don't earn rewards. Most regular bill payments (utilities, insurance, phone) do earn Airpoints.
What happens to my Airpoints if I cancel the card?
Your earned Airpoints remain in your Air New Zealand Airpoints account indefinitely, even if you cancel the credit card. However, you'll lose access to the card's benefits like lounge access and travel insurance.
How do I access airport lounges with this card?
The card includes Priority Pass membership with two complimentary lounge visits annually. You'll receive your Priority Pass card separately after your credit card approval. Present both your Priority Pass card and boarding pass at participating lounges worldwide.
Can I add additional cardholders?
Yes, you can add additional cardholders for $150 per card annually. Additional cardholders receive their own card with the same earning rate and benefits, but all Airpoints earn to the primary cardholder's account.
How quickly do Airpoints appear in my account?
Airpoints typically appear in your Air New Zealand account within 1-2 business days of each transaction posting to your credit card account. You can track pending Airpoints through your online Amex account.
What credit limit can I expect?
The Amex Airpoints Platinum Card has no preset spending limit, meaning your purchasing power adjusts based on your payment history, spending patterns, and financial capacity. However, this doesn't mean unlimited credit - Amex monitors spending patterns and may decline large unusual purchases.
Ready to Start Earning Maximum Airpoints?
The American Express Airpoints Platinum Card offers New Zealand's fastest Airpoints earning rate plus comprehensive premium benefits.