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Future of money

Community cash trials

He whakamātautau i te pūnaha moni a-rohe

We’re researching new ways to help businesses and community groups in rural areas access cash services where there are limited bank services or ATMs.

Today New Zealanders have a lot more choice about how they pay for things.
 
Lots of people still prefer to pay with cash because it's fast, easy and there are no fees. But people are finding it hard to access cash and use it when they want to.
 
Most people still value cash. People trust cash and they value the choice to use it. Cash is also a great back up option when the power or internet is down, as seen during extreme weather events.
 
People in rural areas face significant challenges to access cash. In response, we are launching trials to test some solutions.
 
We have an independent researcher monitoring how the trials are going and they will report their findings. These findings will inform future policy and legislation.
 
We are committed to ensuring New Zealanders have choices on how they pay and save every day, and for cash to be available and accepted locally.
 
Visit our website to learn more.

What are we doing?

We launched our community cash trial in Waipukurau/Waipawa (Central Hawkes Bay) in November 2025. Businesses and community groups in the area can apply to use our cash depot where they can withdraw and deposit money or exchange notes for smaller denominations or coins.  

We have also extended the trial beyond businesses and community groups to members of the community who can now access fee and purchase free cash-out service at approved merchants. The results from the trial will help us inform future policy around cash access and how cash is used. 

What you need to know

Researching cash services in the community

We've launched our community cash trial in Waipukurau/Waipawa. Our research will run for up to 12 months.

Who can apply for cash trials

We’re inviting applications from local businesses and community groups based in Waipukurau and Waipawa and surrounding areas to join our cash trial.

Apply to use the cash depot

You can apply to use the cash depot in Waipukurau which gives you access to cash services like notes and coins. Complete the application form to apply.

Cash depot terms and conditions

These are the terms and conditions for using the cash depot.