indiancouple

Is Auckland airport a good place to change US $ to NZ $, or does one get better rates in the city ? If rates are not too different, would prefer to change everything at one go at the airport. Would appreciate advice from experienced travelers.

Thanks in advance. Looking forward to our trip. 12 days to go.

doug_stallings

Generally, you get the worst exchange rate at an airport currency exchange booth. The best rates are typically from regular bank ATMs (even if your bank charges a percentage foreign exchange fee and/or a fee).

I have never been to New Zealand, so I can't really speak specifically to the country's particular issues, but I'd urge you not to change all your money in one fell swoop. While NZ is pretty safe, it's just not a wise thing to go around with all your cash on hand. It's usually better to take cash out ever few days as you need it.

Melnq8

I agree with Doug.

You'll find ATMs and EFTPOS (electronic funds transfer point of sale) throughtout NZ. No need to carry a lot of cash. Take your ATM card and a credit card and you'll be fine.

http://www.eftpos.co.nz/cms_display.php?sn=216&st=1

ZfromWinnipeg

I have been to New Zealand three times and found Auckland airport money exchange is operated by a NZ bank and provides the same exchange rates as the banks in the city. Airports are usualy bad for changing money but Auckland airport is the exception to the rule. I always change my money at the Aukland Airport.

Z

ZfromWinnipeg

Regarding the suggestion of regular ATM withdrawals and the use of credit card. My experience is that yes to credit card use but use ATM's sparingly as you get dinged with up to two sets of bank surcharges in addition to the currency spread. It all adds up to real money. I find that when changing money, banks give a better exchange rate on travelers cheques than cash. Travelers cheques are great if you can get them at no service charge otherwise it's about even. What you do is your choice but if you want to save a few dollars that's my best advice based on experience.

Z

ZfromWinnipeg

By the way, the bank at Aukland Airport used to negotiate away the fixed fee on larger ammounts. They would quote a rate plus a fixed service charge which I think it was something like $10 to $15. Get them to agree to waive the service charge and confirm before they print the exchange statement. Sometimes they conveniently forget, after promising to waive.

Z

indiancouple

I know that as a general rule, airports are bad places to change currency. However, I also know that many exceptions to this rule exist in various countries. I have obtained excellent exchange rates at airports in Zurich, Shanghai, Hong Kong etc, but terrible rates in Sydney, London etc.

Glad to know from ZfromWinnipeg that Auckland airport rates are good. Will keep in mind the fixed fee waiver. Thanks.

mlgb

I did find a few small towns where ATMS were few (and in one case nonexistant) and you can't always get cash back at a store. So don't get too low on cash before setting out away from a larger town.

indiancouple

Thanks mlgb. I always carry sufficient cash with me. Guess I am over cautious on that account.