Best First Credit Cards NZ 2025 | Student & Beginner Guide

First Credit Card Guide

Getting Started:

Choose the right first card
Understand application requirements
Learn credit card terms
Build good credit habits

Choosing Your First Credit Card

When selecting your first credit card, focus on:

Low or no annual fees
Lower credit limits
Simple features
Student-friendly options

Compare First Credit Cards

Card	Annual Fee	Min Income	Features
ASB Visa Light	$0	$15,000	Low interest rate No annual fee Mobile payments
ANZ Student Visa	$0	$12,000	Student benefits Low credit limit Purchase protection

Application Requirements

Basic Requirements

18 years or older
NZ resident
Valid ID
Proof of income

Documents Needed

Passport or driver's license
Proof of address
Bank statements
Income proof/payslips

Understanding Credit Card Terms

Interest Rates

The cost of borrowing money, charged as a percentage of your balance.

Interest-Free Period

Usually 44-55 days where no interest is charged if you pay in full.

Minimum Payment

The least amount you must pay each month, usually 2-3% of the balance.

Credit Limit

The maximum amount you can spend on your card.

Tips for Responsible Card Use

Always pay on time
Pay more than the minimum
Stay within your limit
Track your spending
Set up automatic payments

Common Questions

What if my application is declined?

Wait a few months, improve your financial situation, and try applying for a card with lower requirements.

Should I get a student card?

Student cards often have lower income requirements and fees, making them ideal for first-time cardholders.

How can I build good credit?

Make all payments on time, keep your balance low, and avoid applying for multiple cards at once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most first credit cards and student cards have lower credit score requirements. Some cards may approve applicants with no credit history, focusing instead on income and employment status.

Student and first credit cards typically require minimum annual income of $12,000-15,000. Part-time work and student allowances often count toward this requirement.

If you're a full-time student, student credit cards often offer better terms, lower fees, and easier approval requirements than standard cards.

Always pay on time, keep your balance below 30% of your limit, avoid cash advances, and monitor your account regularly. Consider setting up automatic payments.