Cash Use Falling in New Zealand, But Remains High

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) has released its Cash Use in New Zealand survey and its Access to Cash survey results. These show cash use for everyday purchases falling from 95.8% in 2019 to 56.6%. Some 19.5% reported being unable to pay with cash somewhere in recent months. Big cash users are 60–74 year olds (62.5%), rural residents (65.5%) and Māori (63.7%).

The Cash Use Survey provides data on how people in New Zealand access and use cash, how these patterns are changing over time, and how this varies among different population groups. The survey results are used to inform the RBNZ's policy decisions, initiatives to maintain access to cash, and monitor the resilience and inclusiveness of the payments system for all New Zealanders.