New Zealanders Urge Protection of Cash Use Amidst Digital Shift
Wellington, NZ – A growing sentiment among New Zealanders is teh desire to preserve the option of using physical cash, citing it as a crucial element of personal privacy and freedom of choice in an increasingly digital world. This call comes as electronic and debit card payments dominate transactions, yet a significant portion of the population continues to rely on cash for everyday purchases.
Recent findings from a Reserve Bank survey released in June 2025 indicate that while electronic payments are the most prevalent method, cash remains a regular payment tool for a significant minority. The survey revealed that 46% of respondents use cash for “everyday things,” a slight decrease from 48% in June 2023. Furthermore, a majority of those surveyed had used cash at least once in the week prior to the survey, with only 33% reporting no cash usage in the past seven days, and a further 3.6% stating they would never use cash.
Further research conducted by the Reserve Bank last year highlighted the value New Zealanders place on physical cash.Ian Woolford,Director of Money and Cash,stated that “84% of respondents were worried about losing access to banknotes and coins,and want assurance that cash will still be issued by the Reserve Bank and not reduced or replaced by digital cash.” He reiterated the Reserve Bank’s commitment to issuing cash “for as long as New Zealanders want to use it,” announcing plans for community cash service trials in rural areas next year to support the cash system.
While some businesses have transitioned to cashless operations, there is a push to ensure that cash remains a viable payment option. The argument is made that cash is legal tender, and its use should be universally accepted. The potential impact on businesses is acknowledged, with an invitation extended for feedback from affected parties during the select committee process should relevant legislation be considered.
The debate over cash use is framed not just as a matter of convenience, but as a fundamental issue of privacy. Concerns are frequently raised about the potential for surveillance in digital transactions, with cash being seen as the “only true way of having privacy in a transaction.” This sentiment underscores a broader public desire to maintain a tangible and anonymous means of payment, self-reliant of digital tracking.
