How to Pick the Right Airpoints Card and Actually Earn From It

I’ve seen a lot of people make the same mistake with rewards credit cards. They grab the first offer that looks flashy without really understanding how the points system works or whether the rewards actually match their spending habits. That’s where a proper comparison can save you time, money, and missed opportunity.

When I reviewed the options in New Zealand, one resource stood out for its depth, clarity, and testing process. If you’re serious about picking the right card, I recommend checking out the airpoints credit cards comparison from Banked. It lays out all the numbers, perks, and real-world factors that matter, without the guesswork. That page includes a complete breakdown of the best airpoints credit cards based on actual value, not just marketing fluff.

What I Look for When Comparing Cards

First, I check the earn rate. Not every card is created equal, and the differences can be huge. Some give you 1 Airpoints Dollar per $70 spent, while others need you to spend over $100 to earn the same amount. If you’re using your card for daily spending, those extra dollars add up.

Then, there are the sign-up bonuses. These can make a big difference early on, especially if you’re planning a trip. For example, the American Express Airpoints Platinum card offers 300 bonus Airpoints Dollars. But only if you meet the minimum spend in the first three months. That bonus alone can cover a domestic flight.

I also weigh annual fees against what you actually get. A higher fee can make sense if you’re getting travel insurance, lounge passes, or extra perks like phone protection. But if you won’t use those, there’s no point paying for them.

Why Banked’s Breakdown Works

Banked didn’t just list out features. They tested how these cards actually perform. That’s rare. Most comparison sites just copy and paste from the banks’ marketing material. Banked used internal testing to confirm earn rates and feature usability. They even highlight which cards are harder to use in real life, like certain AMEX cards not being accepted at every retailer.

One example: the American Express Airpoints Platinum clearly performs well on paper, but Banked flagged the acceptance issue. That kind of detail matters if you want to avoid headaches at checkout.

Matching a Card to Your Spending

If you spend a lot on groceries, travel, or large purchases, you’ll benefit more from a premium card. The ANZ Airpoints Visa Platinum doesn’t have the best earn rate, but it comes with travel insurance and lower fees. It’s a good middle ground if you’re not ready for the Platinum AMEX.

On the other hand, if you want a no-fee option, the standard American Express Airpoints card is the only one in New Zealand that fits. It’s got a lower earn rate, but six months interest-free and no annual fee make it a smart pick for lower spenders or first-time cardholders.

Who Should Avoid These Cards

If you’re not going to pay off your balance in full each month, skip Airpoints cards altogether. The interest rates are too high to make the rewards worthwhile. No Airpoints card currently offers low interest, so the only way to win here is to avoid carrying a balance.

Also, if your spending is light or sporadic, cashback or flexible rewards cards might serve you better. There are other programmes like True Rewards or hotpoints that let you redeem for gift cards or merchandise without needing to fly often.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the right Airpoints card can get you closer to your next trip without changing your everyday habits. But only if you compare the right way. That means looking past the surface-level offers and digging into real value.

That’s why I recommend using Banked as your starting point. Their breakdowns are practical, tested, and easy to understand. Whether you’re looking to earn more Airpoints Dollars, save on annual fees, or just pick a card that actually fits your lifestyle, they make the decision process easier and smarter.

If you’re going to spend the money anyway, you might as well pick a card that gives you something back. Just make sure the perks actually match how you live and spend.

And don’t forget, the only way these cards really work in your favour is if you pay the balance off in full. That’s where the real value kicks in.