Easy Crypto NZ (EC) has emerged as a frontrunner in the Kiwi crypto landscape, offering a unique non-custodial exchange model that prioritizes security and simplicity.
Founded in 2017 by the sibling duo Alan and Janine Grainger from Ōmokoroa, Easy Crypto has grown from a small startup to New Zealand's largest cryptocurrency retailer. With over 200,000 users across New Zealand and a trading volume exceeding 2 billion NZD, Easy Crypto has established itself as a trusted name in the local crypto ecosystem.
In this comprehensive review, we'll delve deep into every aspect of Easy Crypto New Zealand from its unique non-custodial model and fee structure to its security measures, supported cryptocurrencies, and user experience.
Broker / Retailer
Easy Crypto is New Zealand's largest and most popular crypto retailer, making it safe, fast and easy for Kiwis to buy and sell coins like BTC and ETH since 2018. The platform has processed over $2 billion in order volume, securing their position as NZ's crypto heavyweight.
Create AccountWhen choosing where to buy BTC in NZ, several factors should influence your decision, including fees, security, ease of use, and available payment methods. Here's our comprehensive comparison of the top Bitcoin exchanges available to investors in 2025:
Looking for privacy? Our NZ-based P2P Crypto Marketplace connects buyers and sellers directly – no KYC required. For experienced traders, MEXC is a great non-KYC exchange still available to New Zealand users.
EC NZ is a homegrown, non-custodial cryptocurrency retailer – famously known for its simple interface, rapid transaction speeds, and large selection of over 160+ coins. Unlike traditional exchanges where users deposit funds and trade on an order book, EC operates on a different model that prioritizes security and simplicity.
At its core, EC NZ functions as a non-custodial exchange, which means it never holds your cryptocurrency. This fundamental difference sets it apart from most international exchanges and provides significant security benefits for Kiwi investors.
You pay directly from your bank account to Easy Crypto
Easy Crypto sources the cryptocurrency from their liquidity providers
The purchased cryptocurrency is sent directly to your personal wallet
Easy Crypto was founded in 2017 by Alan and Janine Grainger, a sibling duo hailing from Ōmokoroa, New Zealand. What began as a solution to a problem has evolved into one of New Zealand's most remarkable fintech success stories.
In 2017, the cryptocurrency market in New Zealand was significantly underdeveloped. Kiwi investors faced numerous challenges: prices were approximately 20% higher than on international exchanges, verification processes were lengthy, and user interfaces were complex and intimidating for newcomers.
Alan Grainger, a software developer with a passion for blockchain technology, recognized these pain points and saw an opportunity. Working from his laptop, he developed the initial Easy Crypto website while his sister Janine focused on customer support, compliance, regulation, HR, and grand strategy.
In early 2025, Easy Crypto was acquired by Swyftx, one of Australia's leading cryptocurrency exchanges. This strategic merger has created a powerful trans-Tasman cryptocurrency platform.
Despite the acquisition, Easy Crypto continues to operate as a distinct brand in New Zealand, maintaining its local team, customer support, and unique non-custodial model.
Unlike many cryptocurrency exchanges that charge separate fees for trading, deposits, withdrawals, and network transactions, EC NZ incorporates all costs into a single, transparent fee included in the buy and sell prices displayed on their platform.
💡 The price you see is the price you get – no hidden charges!
Beyond its commercial success, Easy Crypto has played a significant role in advancing cryptocurrency adoption and awareness in New Zealand. The company is active in the domestic crypto industry, sponsoring Cryptocurrency NZ's meetups and engaging in various community forums and monthly meetups.
Easy Crypto has also been instrumental in shaping cryptocurrency regulation in New Zealand, working with regulators to develop frameworks that protect consumers while enabling innovation in the digital asset space.
A) Head to the Easy Crypto NZ website - https://easycrypto.com
B) Select your sign up method
C) Provide Easy Crypto NZ with your email address and create a password
D) Click 'Verify account'
Congrats, you've just completed the first step 👏
In New Zealand, all regulated Bitcoin exchanges are required to collect and document their user's data and information, to comply with NZ anti-money laundering laws.
This means whenever you use a regulated NZ Bitcoin exchange to buy and sell Bitcoin, your account and identity need to be verified in order for you to trade on your chosen exchange.
Easy Crypto makes this easy, making it possible to have your account automatically verified in 5 minutes or less.
A) Provide Easy Crypto with your basic details
B) Provide Easy Crypto with your home address
C) Inform Easy Crypto about your source of funds
D) Click 'Automated Verification'
We'd highly recommend going with automatic verification — you can be done in less than 3 minutes!
ECNZ's automatic system includes a walkthrough guide too. 🙂
Tip:
We believe the best place to start is with Bitcoin (BTC), the oldest, largest and most well known cryptocurrency in the market. Our next steps will show you how to buy Bitcoin, but for other cryptocurrencies like Ethereum Easy Crypto works the same way. 👍
It's now time to create your order to buy your Cryptocurrency.
A) Head back to the Easy Crypto NZ homepage and navigate to the exchange widget
B) Select the cryptocurrency you want to buy. i.e. Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP
C) Select how much NZD worth of Crypto you want to buy, then click 'Buy'
Why?
This is so Easy Crypto knows where to send your Bitcoin to once you've paid for your order. You can find your Bitcoin address in your Bitcoin wallet.
A) Head to your Bitcoin wallet and copy your Bitcoin wallet address
B) Paste your Bitcoin address into the field, confirm it's correct then click 'Next step'
Tip: Always make sure to triple check you've provided Easy Crypto with your correct wallet address – Bitcoin transactions are irreversible.
Tip: Never try and type out your Bitcoin wallet address manually, always copy and paste it to guarantee you're giving Easy Crypto your correct address.
A) Select your payment method – Account2Account, POLI Pay or manual bank transfer
Recommendation: We'd recommend going with Account2Account or POLI Pay, to allow you to pay instantly. As soon as your NZD reaches Easy Crypto's bank account, your Bitcoin is released and sent to your personal Bitcoin wallet.
B) Follow through with one of Easy Crypto's payment methods and complete your order.
Easy Crypto's systems will automatically kick into gear and send your Bitcoin to you in 20 minutes or less. Check back with your wallet shortly, and welcome to the club!
Need more detailed guidance? Contact us for personalized advice →
EC NZ offers an impressive selection of over **160 cryptocurrencies**, providing New Zealand investors with access to a diverse range of digital assets. This extensive selection includes everything from established Bitcoin, Ethereum to emerging altcoins.
Customer support is essential when dealing with crypto, especially for beginners. EC is known for its fast, friendly, and local support team. Their service is accessible across several channels, offering help when and where users need it.
Support Channel | Availability | Response Time | Description |
---|---|---|---|
Email Support | 24/7 | Within 24 hours | Ideal for detailed or sensitive issues |
Live Chat RECOMMENDED | Weekdays 9am–5pm NZST | Instant to 5 minutes | Quick help from knowledgeable NZ-based team |
Help Center | 24/7 | Instant | Comprehensive guides and FAQs |
Social Media | Business hours | 1-4 hours | Twitter and Facebook for updates and basic questions |
Ideal for detailed or sensitive issues
Quick help from knowledgeable NZ-based team
Comprehensive guides and FAQs
Twitter and Facebook for updates and basic questions
These response times are based on average user experiences and may vary during periods of high demand, such as market volatility or major platform updates. For urgent matters, live chat during business hours provides the fastest response.
EC's combination of local expertise, responsive service, and comprehensive self-help resources creates a support experience that consistently ranks among the best in the New Zealand cryptocurrency market.
Easy Crypto NZ delivers exceptionally well on its core promise of making cryptocurrency accessible, secure, and straightforward for New Zealand investors. The platform's non-custodial model provides a fundamental security advantage, while its intuitive interface and educational resources create an outstanding experience for newcomers to crypto.
While not the cheapest option or the most feature-rich, EC offers a compelling value proposition through its combination of security, simplicity, and local focus. The platform's limitations are generally conscious trade-offs that align with its mission.
For most NZ investors—particularly those new to crypto or prioritizing security and simplicity—EC represents an excellent choice that balances accessibility with responsible cryptocurrency practices. The platform has earned its position as a market leader through consistent delivery on its core promises and responsive adaptation to user needs.
As cryptocurrency continues to gain mainstream adoption in New Zealand, Easy Crypto is well-positioned to remain a central player in the ecosystem, helping Kiwi investors navigate the evolving digital asset landscape with confidence and security.
Non-custodial model ensures your crypto stays in your control
User-friendly interface perfect for crypto beginners
NZ-based team with local market understanding