Kiwi Access Card

The Kiwi Access Card serves as verified evidence of age and identity in New Zealand. For locals and tourists, this card makes proving identity easier, especially if they are 18 or older. 

Established by Hospitality New Zealand, it was formerly known as the 18+ Card. 

Benefits and Purpose

The primary objective of the Kiwi Access Card is to make goods and services more accessible for everyone in New Zealand. 

For individuals without a valid passport or driver’s license, this card becomes the perfect alternative. 

Recognized by the government as a legitimate photographic ID and age verification, it holds significant value. 

Furthermore, its validity spans a decade. 

Application Process for Kiwi Access Card

Acquiring a Kiwi Access Card is straightforward. Interested individuals can: 

• Apply online via the official portaCollect an application form from NZ Post or AA Centers countrywide. 
• Download the digital form and complete the application. 

The essential prerequisites for the application include: 

• Two recent, identical passport-sized color photographs. 
• Address proof for card delivery. 
• A photo ID such as a Kiwi Access Card, passport, New Zealand Driver’s License, Firearms License, Certificate of Identity, or Refugee Travel Document.

If an applicant lacks the IDs mentioned, he/she need not worry. Having someone vouch for their age and possessing another identification, like a birth certificate, is still acceptable. For additional details, one should consult the application form’s sixth step. 

The card’s processing fee stands at $60, and it typically reaches applicants in around 10 working days via a non-signature-required courier service. 

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What is an Identifier Statement

If one doesn’t apply with a photo ID, their application form must include an Identifier Statement. To write this statement, the person must be at least 20 years old. 

Eligibility for Completing the Identifier Statement

The individual qualifying to complete the Identifier Statement should:

• Have been acquainted with the applicant for a minimum of a year.
• Not be their spouse or partner.
• Be at least 20 years old.
• Not be a relative or part of their extended family.
• Reside at a different address than the applicants.
• Hold a valid Passport, NZ Driver’s Licence, 18+ Card, or Kiwi Access Card.

Eligibility Criteria to Get an Access Card

Even if the applicants are a month shy of 18, they can apply for the Kiwi Access Card. However, issuance only happens post the 18th birthday. 

Lost or Stolen Cards

Misplacing the Kiwi Access Card or falling victim to theft is unfortunate but manageable. In such scenarios, applying for a replacement card is imperative. This process mirrors the original application, requiring full completion and the standard $60 fee. It’s also wise to report stolen cards to local law enforcement. 

Applying through a Third Party

This is allowed, but the following conditions must be followed. 

If they choose a paper application, they must be in the store when applying because it’s part of the identification process. For online applications, they should be there for their photo capture.

Address Change for Kiwi Access Card Delivery

An individual should contact the Kiwi Access Helpdesk if they’ve moved after applying for the Kiwi Access Card. Upon receiving the new address details, the Helpdesk will aim to send the card to that location.

Name Change Procedures for Kiwi Access Card

When an individual has changed their name and seeks a new Kiwi Access Card, they should fill out the standard application form. Additionally, they must submit a document that validates the name change, such as a marriage certificate.

Conclusion

The Kiwi Access Card, managed by Hospitality New Zealand, is a versatile and indispensable identification tool. With a lifespan of 10 years and acceptance both nationally and internationally, it’s the perfect solution for identification needs in New Zealand.