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New Zealand IRD Numbers

Required by employers, an IRD number is vital for any traveller to New Zealand looking to gain employment.

What is an IRD Number?

An IRD number is a unique number that allows you to pay tax while in New Zealand.  Without it, all tax on the earnings you make in New Zealand will be automatically deducted at a no-declaration rate, which is often much higher than the normal deduction rate.

Getting an IRD number

Fortunately, the process of getting an IRD number is relatively easy.  If you are a New Zealand Visa Bureau Working Holiday Client, you can ask any of our partner hostels for help in applying for one. A full list of our current partner hostels can be found in the New Zealand Working Holiday Brochure you were sent upon your visa being granted, as well as online at the Platinum Card site.

Alternatively, you can do it yourself online by visiting the New Zealand Inland Revenue IRD number site.  They have a more detailed FAQ, and in the right hand column of the page, you will see a number of downloadable application forms. 

Simply find the application form which applies to your situation, download and print off the form, complete it and send it to the appropriate address.  Your number should then be sent to you within 8-10 days of the New Zealand Inland Revenue receiving your application.