Copyright 2023 @ Cryptocurrency NZ
Best Bitcoin & Cryptocurrency Exchanges in NZ
- Last updated: May 24, 2023
Nic Turnbull
Harry Satoshi
The safest, fastest, and easiest way to buy Bitcoin, Ethereum and other cryptocurrency in New Zealand is through a Kiwi crypto retailer like Easy Crypto NZ or Binance.
Cryptocurrency exchanges are one of the best ways to buy, sell and trade crypto in NZ. Popular currencies that Kiwis buy, sell and trade include Bitcoin, Ethereum and Dogecoin.
There are over 200 exchanges in the world to choose from and Cryptocurrency NZ combed through the leading players to determine the best crypto exchanges in NZ.
Related Guides:
How to Buy Cryptocurrency in NZ – Step-by-Step Guide (2023)
Best Cryptocurrency Exchanges In NZ
Easy Crypto NZ
Best Cryptocurrency Exchange for Beginners
Easy Crypto NZ is New Zealand’s most popular crypto retailer, making it safe, fast, and easy for Kiwis to buy and sell over 110+ cryptocurrencies in minutes – including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Monero, Dogecoin & XRP.
Cryptocurrency NZ Recommendation ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Website: www.easycrypto.ai/nz
Here at Cryptocurrency NZ, we’ve used Easy Crypto without any issues for over 5 years.
They’ve helped mainline hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders into the cryptocurrency markets.
Easy Crypto is a reputable, reliable and Kiwi focused crypto retailer who without a doubt achieves their mission of making it safe, fast and easy for Kiwis to buy and sell Bitcoin and 160+ other coins in NZ.
EC typically provide rapid order speeds through their simple interface and are well suited to first time crypto investors.
Our biggest critique would be EC’s excessive compliance program, requiring users to jump through increasingly heavier identity and source of funds verification steps for users seeking to acquire privacy coins such as Monero (XMR).
For privacy focused users, non-KYC’ed options such as the NZ P2P Crypto Marketplace may be better suited.
Pros of Easy Crypto NZ
✔️ Beginner friendly: Easy Crypto’s interface is well suited to first time or casual investors.
✔️ Near instant KYC: you can typically create an account, verify your ID and trade within minutes.
✔️ Non-custodial: crypto is sent directly to your own private wallet, Easy Crypto doesn’t store it for you.
✔️ Transparent fee structure: When you place an order, you can see the exact numbers of how much you’ll receive.
✔️ Local customer support: when you need help, EC provides high quality one-on-one assistance.
Cons of Easy Crypto NZ
❌ Limited features: day traders are better suited to live exchanges like Binance NZ or Kiwicoin
❌ Excessive compliance: You can’t buy privacy coins like Monero without proving the source of your funds.
❌ No on-site wallet: users must have a secure wallet already set up to buy and sell through Easy Crypto.
❌ Slippage: There’s sometimes a difference in prices between when you locked in your fees vs current prices.
❌ KYC: You have to verify your identity in order to actually buy or sell. This data is then passed on to the government.
Easy Crypto NZ is a homegrown, non-custodial crypto retailer with a strong reputation in the NZ crypto community.
They have a strong presence in the domestic crypto industry , sponsoring Cryptocurrency NZ’s meetups and are known to actively engage in New Zealand’s various community forums, groups and events.
Since launching in 2018, ECNZ has generated over 200,000+ users in New Zealand alone and has processed over 2 Billion NZD in order volume – securing their title as New Zealand’s crypto heavy weight.
Janine Grainger, EC’s co-founder and other members of EC’s exec team are active members in financial technology and blockchain lobbying bodies across NZ such as Blockchain NZ and Fintech NZ.
Binance NZ
Best Crypto Exchange for Advanced Traders
Binance, the world’s largest crypto exchange, is a highly popular platform for Kiwis interested in crypto trading in NZ.
Binance offers over 1400 trading pairs, such as NZD to BTC, with some of the lowest fees in the industry.
Cryptocurrency NZ Recommendation ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Website: www.binance.com/nz
Here at Cryptocurrency NZ, we have used Binance for over 4 years without any issues.
Binance is the world’s largest crypto exchange, accounting for over 40% of the total crypto market’s trade volume. They have world class platform, access to liquidity, a plethora of coins to trade and are known to be reliable and secure.
They are however still a centralized exchange and the age old ‘not your keys, not your crypto’ still applies. We don’t recommend storing large amounts of coin long term on exchanges and instead recommend using a hardware wallet.
If you’re a day trader, looking to swing trade or practice technical analysis and chart drawing, Binance is very solid.
Pros of Binance NZ
✔️Plethora of coins: Humongous selection of cryptocurrencies available for trading.
✔️ Competitive Rates: Famously low trading fees, especially for high-volume traders and those who hold BNB.
✔️ SAFU Fund: Binance has a “SAFU’ fund to protect users in the event of a security breach or hack. Learn more.
✔️ Registered in NZ: Binance is a registered Financial Service Provider in NZ.
✔️ Advanced Features: Offers world class trading tools and charts.
✔️ IOS & Android: Mobile apps available for trading on-the-go.
Cons of Binance NZ
❌ Regulatory exposure: Ongoing regulatory scrutiny and potential for government restrictions.
❌Mixed Reviews: Some negative user reviews and complaints about poor customer service.
❌ High withdrawal fees: Withdrawing some coins can be higher than fifty dollars, depending on market prices.
❌ Customer Support: Limited customer support during high-traffic periods
❌ Centralized Exchange: Potential for hacking or security breaches.
❌ KYC: You have to verify your identity in order to buy or sell. This data is then passed on to the government.
Binance has has over 6,000 staff globally, and since registering in Zealand in September 2022 as a Financial Services Provider, they have invested heavily into marketing, complying with NZ regulations and developing an NZ based team.
Ben Rose, Binance’s CEO is a member on the Blockchain NZ council, and many of the Binance NZ team are public.
Binance is an international exchange, headed and founded by Changpeng Zhao (CZ), one of the most well known and trusted crypto developers and entrepreneurs in the world. Binance NZ is in it’s early days, but is gearing for the long haul.
Bybit NZ
Best Crypto Exchange for Futures Trading
Bybit was founded by Ben Zhou in March 2018. It is a cryptocurrency exchange platform that primarily focuses on derivatives trading, specifically offering perpetual contracts for Bitcoin and other major cryptocurrencies.
Website: www.bybit.com/nz
Cryptocurrency NZ, has singled out Bybit as a go-to platform for futures traders in New Zealand due to its exceptional features.
Bybit has also established itself as a reputable exchange with high liquidity, ensuring that traders can execute orders quickly and efficiently.
While Bybit does not offer an off-ramp for New Zealand Dollars, it does provide a seamless on-ramp, enabling users to easily convert their NZD into Bitcoin. Cryptocurrency NZ also recommends depositing cryptocurrency such as USDT or USDC instead of New Zealand Dollars.
Pros of Bybit NZ
✔️ Liquidity: Bybit has established itself as a reputable exchange with high liquidity, ensuring that traders can execute orders quickly and efficiently, even during volatile market conditions.
✔️ User-Friendly Interface: Bybit offers an intuitive and user-friendly interface, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced traders. The platform’s layout and tools are designed for ease of use.
✔️ Global Presence: Bybit has a global presence and is accessible to traders from various countries, contributing to its overall appeal and versatility.
✔️ Advanced Trading Tools: Bybit provides a range of advanced trading tools, including customizable charting options, order types, and risk management features, empowering traders to implement their strategies effectively.
Cons of Bybit NZ
❌ No NZD Off-Ramp: One of the significant drawbacks, as previously mentioned, is that Bybit does not provide an off-ramp for converting cryptocurrency back to New Zealand Dollars (NZD). This limitation can be inconvenient for users who want to withdraw their profits or need to convert their crypto holdings to fiat currency.
❌ Limited Fiat Support: Bybit primarily focuses on cryptocurrency trading, so it may not be the ideal platform for users who want to trade a wide variety of fiat currencies or engage in spot trading.
❌Mixed Reviews: Some negative user reviews and complaints about poor customer service.
❌ Customer Support: Limited customer support during high-traffic periods.
❌ Centralized Exchange: Potential for hacking or security breaches.
❌ KYC: You have to verify your identity in order to buy or sell. This data is then passed on to the government.
Bybit has garnered a notable reputation in the cryptocurrency trading community for its commitment to providing a reliable and efficient trading platform. Known for its liquidity and user-friendly interface. However, it’s important to note that, in line with best practices in the cryptocurrency industry, we recommend exercising caution and not keeping substantial funds on any centralized exchange, including Bybit.
While Bybit’s security measures are robust, the inherent risks associated with centralized platforms mean that users should consider employing secure hardware wallets or other offline storage solutions for their long-term cryptocurrency holdings.
Gate.io
Best Crypto Exchange for NO KYC
Gate.io is a global cryptocurrency exchange and blockchain platform founded in 2013 by Lin Han as Bter.com in Hong Kong, later rebranding to Gate.io in 2017 and relocating to the Cayman Islands.
Website: www.gate.io/nz
Cryptocurrency NZ, believes Gate.io stands out as the leading non-KYC cryptocurrency exchange, emerging as the top choice for traders after Binance and Bybit transitioned to mandatory user verification.
The platform boasts an extensive selection of over 1,400 cryptocurrencies available for trading across spot and futures markets, ensuring deep liquidity and diverse trading opportunities.
What also sets Gate.io apart is its commitment to transparency, exemplified by its practice of maintaining a 1:1 reserve of user funds on the exchange, providing clear proof of reserves to instill confidence in its users.
Pros of Gate.io NZ
✔️ Transparency: Gate.io provides transparent proof of reserves, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining user funds 1:1 on the exchange. This transparency can foster trust among users.
✔️ Liquidity: Gate.io’s status as one of the top-20 exchanges worldwide for trading volume ensures ample liquidity, making it easier for users to execute trades quickly and efficiently.
✔️ Privacy: Being Non-KYC exchange they don’t require users to disclose personal information, preserving their anonymity in the crypto space. This can be appealing to individuals who prioritize privacy.
Cons of Gate.io NZ
❌ No NZD Off-Ramp: One of the significant drawbacks, as previously mentioned, is that Bybit does not provide an off-ramp for converting cryptocurrency back to New Zealand Dollars (NZD). This limitation can be inconvenient for users who want to withdraw their profits or need to convert their crypto holdings to fiat currency.
❌ Limited Fiat Support: Bybit primarily focuses on cryptocurrency trading, so it may not be the ideal platform for users who want to trade a wide variety of fiat currencies or engage in spot trading.
❌Mixed Reviews: Some negative user reviews and complaints about poor customer service.
❌ Customer Support: Limited customer support during high-traffic periods.
❌ Centralized Exchange: Potential for hacking or security breaches.
Gate.io has garnered a reputation as a reputable player in the cryptocurrency exchange landscape. Founded in 2013 as Bter.com and later rebranded as Gate.io, the platform has consistently demonstrated a commitment to user safety and security, highlighted by initiatives like the Gate SAFU fund.
Its proactive approach to transparency, including clear proof of reserves, has also earned trust among its user base.
What is a Cryptocurrency Exchange In NZ?
Crypto exchanges serves as a dedicated marketplace in New Zealand where individuals can seamlessly trade a variety of cryptocurrencies, including popular options like Bitcoin, Ether, or Dogecoin. These platforms operate much like other trading platforms you may already be familiar with, making it easy for you to participate in the dynamic world of cryptocurrency.
Cryptocurrency exchanges may also offer additional advanced trading features, though the availability of such features can vary. For instance, some exchanges support margin accounts and futures trading, while others may provide opportunities for cryptocurrency staking or loans. These unique features can empower you to potentially earn interest on your crypto holdings or explore more complex trading strategies.
How Do Crypto Exchanges Work in New Zealand?
Crypto exchanges in New Zealand operate as digital platforms where users can engage in various transactions involving cryptocurrencies. Much like brokerage platforms in the traditional financial world, these exchanges provide a user-friendly interface that enables individuals to place different types of orders to buy, sell, or speculate on various cryptocurrencies in collaboration with other users.
Centralized Crypto Exchanges: Centralized exchanges, often managed by a single corporate authority, function as intermediaries that facilitate secure cryptocurrency trading. These platforms are akin to brokerage companies, offering a structured environment for users to trade.
Decentralized Crypto Exchanges: On the other hand, decentralized exchanges follow a different model. They distribute verification and transaction certification powers to any participant who wishes to join the network. This approach closely aligns with the principles of cryptocurrency blockchains, enhancing accountability and transparency within the exchange system.
Types of Cryptocurrency Exchanges In NZ
Centralized Exchange (CEX)
In New Zealand, the most popular method for buying, selling, and trading digital assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin is through centralized crypto exchanges (CEX). These crypto exchanges, such as Gate.io Bybit, and Binance, are owned and operated by private companies and have gained widespread adoption due to their user-friendly interfaces and extensive cryptocurrency offerings. CEXs play a vital role in the New Zealand cryptocurrency market.
One essential aspect is that centralized exchanges in NZ adhere to regulatory requirements, particularly the Know Your Customer guidelines. As per these regulations, users are required to register and provide their identity, which assists in combating money laundering and preventing other illicit activities.
However, it is essential to acknowledge that some individuals within the crypto community have expressed concerns about the KYC option. They argue that it may compromise user privacy and the decentralized nature of cryptocurrencies, which initially attracted kiwis to crypto.
An interesting argument against KYC can be found here.
Decentralized Exchange (DEX)
A decentralized exchange (DEX) is a type of crypto exchange that operates on a decentralized blockchain network instead of a central server.
DEXs enable users to trade cryptocurrencies without intermediaries, providing more control to traders. Unlike centralized exchanges, DEXs don’t require users to deposit funds into the exchange’s wallet, and users maintain complete control over their private keys, enhancing security and reducing vulnerability to hacking.
Some popular decentralized exchanges in New Zealand include Uniswap, PancakeSwap, and Kyber Network. These platforms offer a wide range of trading pairs and low fees, making them an attractive option for traders looking for greater privacy and security.
Cryptocurrency Exchange Fees
Trading Fees
Trading fees can take different forms, such as a fixed percentage of your cryptocurrency transaction’s value or varying rates for maker and taker orders, each responsible for either adding or removing liquidity from the exchange. Generally, maker fees are slightly lower.
While seeking an exchange with low costs is wise, getting bogged down in the intricacies of maker and taker fees can be counterproductive. This is because you don’t control whether your order is treated as a maker or taker. Instead, it’s more beneficial to consider overall fees and potential discounts based on your trading volume or holding the exchange’s native token.
Important!
It's crucial to note that some cryptocurrency exchanges claim zero fees, but they may apply spreads, essentially the difference between their buying and selling rates. Spreads can, and often do, end up being more expensive than a percentage-based trading fee.
Withdrawal Fees
Many cryptocurrency exchanges charge fees for withdrawing coins. If you plan to move your crypto to a secure wallet or another exchange, opt for platforms offering fee-free withdrawals.
Additional Fees
Engaging in advanced trading strategies like margin trading may incur extra borrowing fees. User-friendly exchanges often feature quick buy options with slightly higher fees, which can be avoided by learning to trade on the platform.
Exchange Vs Retailer
When it comes to buying and selling cryptocurrencies in New Zealand, there are two main options. cryptocurrency exchanges and retailers. Cryptocurrency exchanges provide a platform where users can directly trade various cryptocurrencies with other kiwis.
They offer a wide range of cryptocurrencies to choose from and allow individuals to set their own buy and sell orders. Crypto exchanges are suitable for those who want more control over their trades and are comfortable with actively participating in the market.
On the other hand, crypto retailers act as intermediaries between New Zealanders and the cryptocurrency market. They provide a user-friendly interface, simplifying the process of buying or selling cryptocurrencies. Retailers execute trades on behalf of their customers, making them a convenient option for new users or those who prefer a more streamlined experience. (Cryptocurrency NZ recommends Easycrypto NZ)
While exchanges charge transaction fees, retailers typically earn revenue through spreads. Depending on your trading preferences and level of expertise, you can choose between exchanges and retailers to enter the exciting world of cryptocurrencies in New Zealand.
When it comes to buying and selling cryptocurrencies in New Zealand, there are two main options: cryptocurrency exchanges and retailers. Cryptocurrency exchanges provide a platform where users can directly trade various cryptocurrencies with other kiwis.
Centralized Exchange Features
Order Books
The order book constitutes a fundamental element in the structure of a centralized exchange. Its primary purpose is to facilitate trading activities for customers. Essentially, the order book functions as a comprehensive ledger documenting buy and sell requests from traders for a specific asset pair. This system typically comprises a sell-side and buy-side, with prices denoted relative to the base currency.
In the standard order book framework, orders are systematically organized based on their price levels, with specific prices being computed and displayed in the book. Sell orders are positioned in ascending order, starting from the lowest asking price, while buy orders are arranged in descending order, commencing with the highest bid.
Fiat On-Ramp/Off-Ramp
Acquiring cryptocurrency with fiat money is streamlined by centralized exchanges, thanks to fiat on-ramp services. These services empower New Zealanders to buy cryptocurrencies using funds from their conventional banks such as Kiwibank or ANZ, often involving a third-party financial service provider to execute purchase requests on behalf of both the exchange and the customer.
It’s important to note that when it comes to converting cryptocurrency back to New Zealand Dollars (NZD), the options for off-ramping may be limited, with only a few platforms available, including Easy Crypto NZ, Binance NZ, and Pay it Now (PIN).
KYC Requirement
Centralized exchanges implement KYC (Know-Your-Customer) protocols as a distinctive customer profiling process. This procedure serves as the exchange’s means of verifying a customer’s identity and confirming their authenticity. KYC aims to thwart illicit activities.
Typically, KYC procedures entail the submission of personal information, including national identity cards, facial identification, and registered phone numbers. While these measures enhance security, it is crucial to acknowledge that the imposition of KYC does compromise the inherent anonymity and ethos of cryptocurrencies, which are designed to operate on a decentralized and pseudonymous basis.
Other Crypto Exchange Options In NZ
In addition to centralized and decentralized exchanges, there are other cryptocurrency exchange options available to users in NZ.
Peer-to-peer (P2P): P2P platforms allow users to buy and sell cryptocurrencies directly with each other, without the need for a central authority or intermediary. These platforms can offer users more privacy and flexibility, but they may have lower liquidity and higher transaction fees than centralized exchanges. (NZ’s own P2P marketplace)
Brokerages: Cryptocurrency brokerages operate like traditional stock brokers, allowing users to buy and sell cryptocurrencies at a set price. Brokerages can be a good option for beginners who are new to cryptocurrency trading. (Easycrypto is the safest and fastest)
OTC (Over-the-Counter) exchanges: OTC exchanges are designed for high-volume traders and allow users to buy and sell large amounts of crypto without affecting the market price. These exchanges typically have higher fees than other types of exchanges, but they can offer greater liquidity and flexibility.
How to Pick the Best Cryptocurrency Exchange in NZ
When determining the best cryptocurrency exchange for your needs, it goes beyond just fees. Take into account the following factors:
- Supported Assets: Confirm that the exchange supports the specific asset you intend to trade, and assess the available pairings. The inclusion of your chosen asset on the platform is crucial for effective trading. Additionally, consider the exchange’s support for assets on more cost-effective EVM networks to potentially reduce withdrawal fees.
- Region Supported: Explore exchanges with a strong presence in NZ to take advantage of region-specific fiat deposit methods, often associated with lower transaction fees. This ensures a seamless and cost-effective experience tailored to your geographical location.
- Security: Evaluate the exchange’s security measures to safeguard both funds and user profiles. Look beyond basic SMS authentication for 2FA options, considering the vulnerability of SIM swapping. Understand the exchange’s fund practices, especially the segregation of funds into different wallets, including cold wallets for extended storage, to minimize losses in the event of a security breach.
- Proof of Reserves: Check if the exchange has implemented a Proof of Reserves (PoR) feature, as exemplified by platforms like CoinGecko. PoR provides a transparent record of assets in an exchange’s custody, allowing users to verify the institution’s actual possession of assets. This is crucial for establishing the financial credibility of the exchange.
- Trading Volume: Assess the trading volume on the exchange as an indicator of activity and liquidity. Opting for exchanges with higher trading volumes reduces the risk of slippage and ensures a higher likelihood of swift order fulfillment. Take a closer look at the order book, spread, and density, as well as considering that liquidity levels may vary for different assets on the same exchange.
- Fees: Scrutinize the fees charged by the exchange for both trading and withdrawals. While opting for an exchange with lower fees can save a considerable amount, strike a balance by considering the exchange’s security measures. Depending on your trading strategy and timeframe, prioritizing security may be essential.
- Trading Features: Evaluate the range of trading services offered by the exchange. Some platforms primarily focus on spot trading, while others may provide support for perpetual and futures trading. Assess your current and potential future trading needs to choose an exchange that aligns with your preferences, avoiding the hassle of creating new accounts.
Cryptocurrency NZ Final Verdict
There are numerous crypto exchanges in NZ to choose from, and individual traders and investors have different needs from their platform. However after exploring the options above CNZ believe Easy Crypto NZ and Binance NZ are best suited for kiwis.
This is why it’s critical to research the best crypto exchange for your specific needs, because what works for one person may not work for another. Examine detailed reviews, compare the features, fees, pros and cons of each exchange, and determine how well they match your preferences and requirements.
Commonly asked questions
Yes – you can buy cryptocurrency in NZ in minutes through one of New Zealand’s various crypto retailers or exchanges, such as Easy Crypto NZ. 👍
Crypto wallets are digital vaults where you store your Bitcoin, Ethereum and other digital assets – acting as your NZ crypto bank account.
There are 5 main types of cryptocurrency wallet, such as Hardware wallets like the Trezor and Ledger or software wallets like Exodus.
Which you can learn about in our Best Bitcoin & Crypto Wallet in New Zealand Guide. 👉
New Zealand anti-money laundering laws (AML) require all Kiwis to verify their identities before they can buy and sell cryptocurrency through regulated NZ crypto trading platforms, such as Easy Crypto, BitPrime and beyond.
Alternatives to using regulated services to acquire crypto include crypto mining, buying P2P, airdrops, Bitcoin ATMs, and decentralized exchanges. You can also receive crypto by accepting it as payment for the goods and services you sell, or doing work in exchange for crypto.
To verify an account with an NZ exchange, you need to:
– Be 18 years or above.
– Have a valid NZ passport or drivers license.
– Have an NZ bank account under your own name.
– Have $40 to meet minimum order requirements.
It takes about 30 minutes to buy Bitcoin, Ethereum and other crypto in NZ – depending on your service of choice. It’s possible to sign up with an NZ crypto crypto exchange or retailer like Easy Crypto NZ, verify your account, buy crypto and have it delivered to your personal crypto wallet in 30 minutes or less.
Crypto buying speeds vary in three key ways:
– Account creation and verification speeds; the time it takes from signing up with your chosen service to them confirming your identity. (To allow you to buy/sell/exchange)
– Order creation and delivery speeds; how long it takes to create, pay for and complete your order – and how long it takes for your chosen service to dispatch your crypto to your personal wallet.
– Network processing speeds; how fast crypto transactions are processed by the crypto networks. (This is not in the control of your chosen service)
If you’re unsure on what coins to buy, we’d recommend examining CoinMarketCap to learn about the crypto markets’ most popular coins and projects.
From there you’ll find the latest price trends and coin rankings, and be able to gauge a snapshot overview of each top crypto and discover learning resources to help you dive deeper into your research.
We personally believe Bitcoin and Ethereum are the best coins to start with, thanks to their proven track record, real world utility and highly active communities.
Disclaimer – this is not financial advice in any way, shape or form. Always do your own research and seek a diverse range of perspectives when learning about a new project.
Absolutely – selling crypto is just as easy as buying it. All NZ services showcased below allow users to sell back crypto 24/7, 365 days a year.