What is the best way to send money to Samoa or Tonga from NZ?

WorldRemit, Western Union and KlickEx are most established for Pacific corridors. Wise added Tonga and Samoa support recently with significantly better rates than the legacy MTOs.

Are there cheaper alternatives to Westpac and ANZ for sending money?

Yes. Wise and OFX both operate in New Zealand and typically save 2–4% on the exchange rate compared to the big four banks. For NZD→INR specifically, Instarem and Remitly are also competitive.

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Sending from

Send money from the New Zealand

New Zealand has 1.4 million migrants — 27% of the population — including 240,000 from the UK, 110,000 from China, 240,000 from India, plus Pacific Island communities (Samoa, Tonga, Fiji) who are among the most consistent remitters globally.

Annual remittance outflow: $1.6 billion (2023)

Top corridors from New Zealand

NZD → INR (India)NZD → PHP (Philippines)NZD → AUD (Australia)NZD → GBP (UK)

Best providers for New Zealand senders

Wise

Percentage + flat

Remitly

Tiered fee + rate markup

Xoom

Flat fee + rate markup

Western Union

Flat fee + rate markup

Regulations & Compliance

FSPR Registration

Money transfer providers in New Zealand must register on the Financial Service Providers Register (FSPR) and comply with the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act 2009 (AML/CFT Act).

Border cash declaration

Cash leaving or entering NZ above NZD 10,000 must be declared to NZ Customs. This does not apply to electronic transfers.

IRD reporting on large transfers

Inland Revenue receives information on large international transfers. Personal remittances to family are not taxable, but transfers tied to business income or property must be declared on your tax return.