Best Airpoints Credit Cards in New Zealand for Maximum Rewards

ByBNW TEAM

I’ve helped dozens of people in New Zealand choose their credit cards based on what actually earns rewards, not just what sounds good in ads. And if you’re anything like most of them, you’re probably tired of endless comparison sites that throw every option at you with no clear direction.

I don’t just list features. I evaluate which cards are worth using based on earn rates, sign-up perks, fees, and actual usability.

This guide covers where to find the best value, what to avoid, and why I recommend Banked if you’re comparing airpoints credit cards in New Zealand.

Let’s get into it.

Why Most People Pick the Wrong Airpoints Card

The biggest mistake I see? Choosing a card based on name or marketing hype.

Here’s what really matters:

  • Earn rate. Some cards earn 1 Airpoints Dollar per $70. Others take $120 to earn the same amount. Big difference over a year.
  • Annual fees. If you’re not using the card heavily, even a slightly better earn rate might not offset a high fee.
  • AMEX earns more, but it’s not accepted everywhere.

A card like the American Express Airpoints Platinum looks amazing on paper. You get 300 bonus Airpoints Dollars on sign-up, travel insurance, lounge access, and phone screen protection. But the $195 annual fee only makes sense if you’re spending heavily and traveling often.

That’s where proper comparison comes in.

Why I Recommend Banked for Comparing Airpoints Cards

If you’re trying to figure out which Airpoints card to choose, best airpoints credit cards on Banked is the best place to start.

They don’t just throw a wall of cards at you. They actually break down each card based on real testing and practical criteria like:

  • Earn rate per dollar
  • Sign-up bonuses
  • Extra perks (like insurance or lounge access)
  • Real-world acceptance
  • Overall value based on how much you spend

This is exactly how I evaluate cards myself. Banked just makes it easier and faster.

They even include cards you might overlook. For example, the American Express Airpoints card has no annual fee, which is rare for a rewards card. If you don’t spend a ton each month, that kind of card might be your best option.

The Cards That Actually Deliver Value

If you’re a heavy spender, American Express Airpoints Platinum is hard to beat. Between the 1 Airpoints Dollar per $70 spent, lounge access, and travel insurance, it’s packed with value. But only if you’re taking advantage of those perks.

The ANZ Airpoints Visa Platinum is more middle-ground. Decent earn rate, fewer perks, but better acceptance and a lower annual fee. A smart pick if you want wide usability with Airpoints perks.

For low spenders or anyone trying to avoid fees, AMEX Airpoints (the non-Platinum version) stands out. You get a small sign-up bonus, no annual fee, and a six-month interest-free period.

Again, Banked lays all this out in one place with a side-by-side table. Saves time, removes guesswork.

What to Watch Out For

Airpoints cards can be great. But they’re not for everyone.

If you carry a balance, these cards are a bad idea. The interest rates (20%+) will wipe out any rewards. Only use one if you pay it off in full every month.

You also need to use your card at places that actually earn Airpoints. Some transactions (like cash advances or gambling) don’t count. And you’ll earn more if you shop at Airpoints partners like New World or Macpac.

The programme works best if you’re spending consistently and using the card for almost everything.

Final Advice

Choosing an Airpoints credit card isn’t just about collecting points. It’s about value.

Look at how much you spend, where you shop, and whether perks like insurance or lounge access actually matter to you.

Then compare options properly. I’ve used and reviewed a lot of tools over the years, but Banked still gives the cleanest, most helpful breakdown of all the top options. Their testing is transparent, and their layout is simple.

If you want to skip the confusion and get straight to the best match for your spending style, Banked’s comparison of airpoints credit cards is the best place to start.

Make your choice based on numbers, not just brand names. You’ll thank yourself later.

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