[Philip10]

Hi, will be in NZ in 8 weeks time, can't believe it! Down to earth bit. Plan to start earning Airpoints $ as soon as I hit the ground so to speak, so I will be applying for a GlobalPlus credit card, once in NZ asap. The GlobalPlus American Express card gives the most points, however how many outlets take American Express compared to Visa or Mastercard as I don't want to end up with a card that I can hardly use. Would be grateful for advice.

Cheers

Philip

[mgbridges]

Hi Philip,

OH applied for HSBC (we banked with them when we first arrived) Amex cards when we first got here as he had TONS of Amex points on the UK card and wanted to be able to transfer them - which he has now done. We also wanted to have an NZ based credit card. But... OH has had to go out and get an NZ Visa card also as Amex just isn't as widely accepted as we'd like, particularly not on the internet.

At the moment the only NZ credit card I have is the Amex (extra card on OH account) I've been caught out a number of times and had to resort to using my UK Visa card. Its a pain as obviously I'm then paying in sterling and its eating into the funds we left back in the UK which were meant for other things.

I wouldn't say it isn't worth getting an NZ Amex card but I'd keep your options open and also get an NZ Visa or Mastercard as a back up.

HTH
Anneliese

[kanatakiwi]

I also chose the Amex Global plus for the most points, I have never had a problem with it yet, it has been accepted anywhere I used it in NZ. And I am liking the airpoints.

[Nick88]

Not as many places will take it due to the cost. Visa and Mcard deduct 1.5% as a fee, but Amex deducts 4%, which is too much for many retailers (Diners is the same). When we ran the motel we had to have it for American customers, but if ever offered a choice we would say we preferred the others.

[neilw71]

I have the Amex Global Plus and you do get occasions when an outlet does not accept Amex even around Auckland. To cover those times, we have a joint Gold Visa Global Plus and my wife is the primayr holdr. so points go to her Airmiles account - no issue as you can transfer them over within a family. An additional card fee, but worth it IMHO.

Neil

[DB]

Although not as widely accepted as Visa and Mastercard, Amex in NZ has good acceptability, better than the UK. However, I would not recommend it to be your sole plastic money....