Crypto ATMs in NZ – New Zealand’s Crypto Guide (2025)
Learn how to use Crypto ATMs in New Zealand to buy Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies with NZD. Discover where they’re located, how they work, and what to watch out for.
Finding a secure, easy and reliable place to buy cryptocurrency is a key step in any New Zealand crypto investor’s journey. But how effective are crypto ATMS for buying crypto? In this guide, we dive into the history, current state, and effectiveness of buying Bitcoin, Ethereum and other cryptocurrencies through physical ATMs.
Be cautious of scammers using Bitcoin ATMs. Legitimate entities, will never ask you to use a Bitcoin ATM. If someone instructs you to transfer money via a Bitcoin ATM, it's a red flag. Scam is real, beware!
What are Bitcoin / Crypto ATMs?
Cryptocurrency ATMs, (also known as Bitcoin ATMs or crypto ATMs), are physical kiosks that allow New Zealanders to buy or sell cryptocurrencies using cash or credit/debit cards.
Crypto ATM machines bridge the gap between traditional fiat currency and digital assets, providing a user-friendly interface for cryptocurrency transactions. Unlike traditional ATMs, instead of dispensing NZD, you pay in cash and they send Bitcoin to your wallet.
They do however, also come with drawbacks – such as mandatory KYC, withdrawal limits, higher fees, and the need to physically visit the ATM in order to buy crypto through them.With many solid options available for acquiring crypto in New Zealand – such as via NZ crypto exchanges and peer-to-peer, the question arises why are there not that many crypto ATMs running in New Zealand and why are they not a common way to buy crypto in NZ?
There are several websites for tracking live crypto ATMs in NZ, such as Coin ATM Radar.
Bitcoin / Crypto ATM in Northlands Mall, Christchurch
How does a Bitcoin ATM work?
Bitcoin ATMs allow users to purchase Bitcoin by converting traditional currency into cryptocurrency. These machines are connected to crypto exchanges, enabling real-time conversions and processing transactions directly on the blockchain the decentralized ledger that records all crypto activity.
To complete a transaction, users scan their wallet's QR code at the machine, insert cash or make a card payment, and receive the equivalent amount of BTC sent to their wallet.
How to Find Crypto ATMs in NZ?
The easiest way to find crypto ATMs in NZ is either by word of mouth, such as the plugs on the NZ crypto groups about the crypto ATM at Northlands Mall, or by exploring one of the various global ATM maps – where ATM providers can list their operational machines.
Here are two websites devoted to documenting crypto ATMs worldwide:
- https://coinatmradar.com/
- https://coinflip.tech
Top Crypto ATM Operators
In the world, the top 10 crypto ATM operators oversee 26,113 crypto ATMs, comprising 69.9% of the total. Additionally, there are 476 other operators managing 11,236 crypto ATMs, accounting for 30.1% of the market. But how does one find a crypto ATM in NZ?
How to Use a Bitcoin ATM in NZ (Step-by-Step)
Using a crypto ATM in NZ is straightforward, but preparation is key especially given the KYC requirements and the high fees. Here's a detailed breakdown of what to expect:
Locate a Bitcoin ATM Near You: Start by using a reliable ATM locator such as Coin ATM Radar, CoinFlip's location directory, or Localcoin NZ. These platforms show active machines, supported services (buy/sell), fees, and whether the ATM is online.
Prepare Your Wallet Address: Before heading to the ATM, make sure you have your crypto wallet ready. You can use a mobile wallet app (like Exodus or Trust Wallet,), a hardware wallet(such as Trezor or Ledger), or even a paper wallet with a printed QR code. You'll need to scan your public Bitcoin address at the machine so have it accessible and visible.
Complete Identity Verification (KYC): All NZ Bitcoin ATMs require identity verification due to AML/CFT laws. Expect to scan your passport or driver's licence, take a selfie, and input your mobile number. This process typically takes a few minutes but is mandatory to proceed even if you're using cash.
Insert NZD Cash: Once KYC is approved, you'll be prompted to insert NZ cash bills into the machine. Most ATMs support denominations from $20 to $100, and will display your Bitcoin purchase value in real time based on the current exchange rate and fees.
Enter or Scan Your Wallet Address: You'll be asked to input your wallet address by either typing it manually (not recommended) or scanning a QR code. Double-check the address before confirming Bitcoin transactions are irreversible.
Review and Confirm the Transaction: The ATM will show you a summary of how much BTC you're buying, the exchange rate, applicable fees, and your destination address. Take a moment to confirm all details especially the address and total received.
Receive Bitcoin in Your Wallet: Once confirmed, the machine will process the transaction and initiate the BTC transfer to your wallet. Network times vary, but you should receive your Bitcoin within 5 – 30 minutes, depending on congestion.
Bitcoin & Crypto ATM Fees in NZ
If you're looking to buy Bitcoin or crypto using cash in New Zealand, Bitcoin ATMs offer one of the most direct paths but they come at a price. Across Aotearoa, fees for using cryptocurrency ATMs are notoriously high, often ranging between 6% and 15.99%, depending on the provider, machine, and location.
Why Are Crypto ATM Fees So Expensive?
Crypto ATMs charge more than online exchanges like Easy Crypto or MEXC because they absorb substantial costs. These include:
- Physical kiosk installation and maintenance
- Cash handling, insurance, and armored transport
- Retail rent or commission
- Real-time crypto price slippage and liquidity spread
- Compliance with NZ's AML/KYC regulations
- Network software fees and operator margins
These costs get passed down to you, the buyer, often in the form of double-digit fees.
Real Fees from CoinFlip
One of the world's largest ATM operators, CoinFlip by Olliv, has Bitcoin and Crypto ATMs installed in several major NZ cities including Auckland. As of 2024, their fees are listed as:
- Buy Bitcoin fee: Up to 15.99%
- Sell Bitcoin fee: Around 4.99%
These rates highlight just how steep ATM fees can be especially when compared to non-custodial exchanges, where fees are typically below 1%. Still, many users value the speed, cash access, and lower technical friction Bitcoin ATMs provide.
All Bitcoin ATMs in New Zealand require KYC even for cash transactions. This means you'll need to scan a government-issued ID and sometimes verify your mobile number at the machine before proceeding.
Historical Bitcoin ATM Fee Trends
Back in 2016, the cryptocurrency analytics platform Coin ATM Radar published detailed industry-wide data on average Bitcoin ATM fees. According to their findings, the global average buy fee at the time was 8.36%, while the average sell fee was 5.37%, resulting in an overall average fee of 7.5% across all machines.
These figures were compiled from over 923 active Bitcoin ATMs worldwide, using both real-time API data and manually submitted information from leading manufacturers such as Genesis Coin, Lamassu, and Bitaccess.
Today, in 2025, Bitcoin ATM fees in New Zealand remain in the same ballpark averaging 7%–16%.
Risks and limitations of Bitcoin ATMs
Bitcoin ATMs may seem convenient, but they come with notable downsides. Most charge high transaction fees often between 10% and 20% making them far more expensive than using a broker or exchange. Regulatory changes also mean many machines now require ID verification, reducing the privacy that once made them appealing.
Not all ATMs are created equal either; some may lack proper licensing, charge hidden fees, or have weak security. Before using one, it's important to confirm the machine is compliant, trustworthy, and supports your preferred payment method.
History of Crypto ATMs in NZ
The first Bitcoin ATMs in New Zealand broke ground in 2014, installed and launched on April 1st by Bitto on Karangahape Road. This was very early days, KYC wasn't mandatory.
Over the following years, various standalone crypto ATMs launched primarily across Auckland, with atleast one in Dunedin and according to whispers, some in Christchurch.
These ATMs were installed in bars, malls, and in some cases private venues dedicated to crypto education. It was also possible to find ATM listings on Facebook Marketplace.
Theses ATMs were usually buy-only, managed by either local or international owners. In 2018, Bitcoin Central shutdown their ATM located in the Ironbar Cafe in Auckland, NZ. The reason given for shutting it down being 'the negativity towards Bitcoin in the area's banking sector made in impossible for the company to acquire proper banking facilities.'
On May 2022, new kid on the block Crypto Partners NZ begin their efforts in launching ATMs across NZ. It is understood they faced banking issues, as well as low demand due launching during a crypto winter. Crypto Partners NZ LTD has since been de-registered.
On 12th October 2023, 1 News broke a story called "Network of cryptocurrency ATMs to roll out across New Zealand" – citing the recent developments in expansion to NZ by the world's largest crypto ATM provider, Olliv. In one month, they had already installed 10 ATMs across Auckland, setting sights to install over 100 in New Zealand's largest cities.
The advantage Olliv have is that they are based overseas, which has allowed them to secure banking services in order for their machines to operate. Almost all other NZ crypto ATMs were closed due to this reason, opening up the playing field to international ATMs.
World's First Bitcoin ATM
The world's first Bitcoin ATM was launched in October 2013 at Waves Coffee House in downtown Vancouver, Canada. Operated by Robocoin and Bitcoiniacs, the machine allowed users to buy and sell BTC using cash marking a major milestone in crypto.
On its first day, over 80 transactions were processed, exchanging more than $10,000 worth of Bitcoin. Around 30% of users were buying Bitcoin for the first time, highlighting growing public interest in the digital currency.
The ATM featured biometric authentication, requiring users to scan their palm and ID to create an account a process that took just a few minutes. This innovation set the stage for the global rollout of Bitcoin ATMs in the years to follow.
Are Bitcoin ATMs Safe to Use?
Yes, Bitcoin ATMs in NZ are generally safe to use but only when operated correctly and with caution. These machines are often located in secure retail or high-traffic public spaces and are managed by registered providers who must comply with regulations.
However, risks still exist particularly for first-time users or those unfamiliar with crypto best practices. Some of the most common risks include:
- Scam manipulation: Scammers sometimes pose as bank staff, crypto experts, or even police officers and instruct victims to deposit money at a Bitcoin ATM to "resolve an issue" or "unlock funds."
- Shoulder surfing: Fraudsters may stand nearby and offer unsolicited help to steal QR codes or manipulate your wallet setup.
- Fee exploitation: Some ATMs may display misleading rates that include high hidden spreads resulting in significantly less Bitcoin received.
- Wrong wallet address: If you mistype or scan the wrong wallet QR code, your Bitcoin is permanently lost. There's no undo button in crypto.
Crypto ATM Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes - you can withdraw cash from a nearby crypto ATM. Follow the on-screen prompts to transfer your cryptocurrency to the specified address. Once the transaction is complete, you'll receive your cash from the machine.
Yes, using a Bitcoin ATM is safe. These machines are equipped with security features to protect against hardware and software issues. Additionally, tampering with the blockchain, which underpins cryptocurrencies, is highly challenging.
Many Bitcoin ATMs use traditional ATM hardware with updated software, but you don't need a bank account or debit card to use them for buying or selling crypto.
The usual maximum amount for Bitcoin ATMs is $10,000, though some operators may allow larger transactions under certain conditions. These limits may seem restrictive to some users, but they are in place to protect customers, keep the ATM operational, and maintain compliance with regulations.