The American Express Gold Rewards Credit Card

The American Express Gold Rewards Card is an award-winning credit card with Amex's fastest earn rate in NZ. You get 2 points per $1 spent. You can use your points for gift cards, travel or to pay off eligible purchases. Plus you earn 2 x $100 Dining Credits each year when you spend at Amex's extensive Dining Collection of top NZ restaurants.

CURRENT OFFER: Get $200 back* (Statement Credit). *Apply online, be approved and spend $1,500 on your new Card within the first 3 months. New Card Members only. T&Cs apply.

When you book and pay for your return trip with your Gold Rewards Card, you can take advantage of complimentary domestic and overseas travel insurance for you, your spouse and your dependent children under the age of 23. The insurance includes cover for:

• Medical Emergency Expenses (including Repatriation) up to $2,500,000
• Travel Cancellation up to $30,000
• Baggage, Money and Documents up to $30,000

The Amex Gold Rewards Credit Card might be suitable for you if you want to earn Amex Membership Rewards points for everyday purchases on your card. It might also be suitable for frequent travellers who can take advantage of the complimentary domestic and overseas Travel Insurance when you use your Gold Rewards Card to pay for your return trip.

Sub limits apply. Other terms, conditions and exclusions apply (such as maximum age limits, exclusions for pre-existing medical conditions and cover limits)*

The Amex Airpoints Platinum Card is the FASTEST Air NZ Airpoints Dollar^TM earning Platinum credit card. Every $70 spend earns you 1 Airpoints Dollar. Every $70 spend earns you 1 Airpoints Dollar. This card also includes complimentary Travel Insurance, VIP Lounge access and more. CURRENT OFFER: Be rewarded with 400 bonus Airpoints Dollars™ when you apply, are approved and spend $1,500 on your new Card within the first 3 months. New Amex Card Members only. Offer ends 26th May 2025.

More Info »

*Terms and conditions apply

Rewards Points Cash Equivalent

$100 spend earns you $1.25 cash equivalent^.

^ To help you compare reward points across different credit cards and rewards programs, we provide an estimate of the cash-equivalent of the reward points that you will get back for every $100 you spend on eligible purchases with your card. The cash equivalent value given is an estimate only based on a specific redemption example. In some cases reward points cannot be redeemed for cash directly. See below to find out how the estimate was calculated.

Points Cash Equivalence Calculation

If $1 spend earns you 2 Membership Rewards points then $100 spend earns you 200 points. 16,000 Membership Rewards Points gets you a $100 Bunnings Gift card. This means 1 Amex Membership Rewards Points earns you 0.625 of a cent in NZD and $100 spend earns you (0.625 X 200) = $1.25 NZD in cash equivalent.

Our research further suggests that you get more value for your Amex Membership Rewards Points by redeeming your points for travel, gift cards, and shopping with Amex partners rather than as statement credit because when redeemed yout points for statement credit 20,000 Membership Reward Points = $100 NZD in statement credit.

How can I redeem my Amex Membership Reward Points?

Amex Membership Rewards Points can be redeemed in various ways, including for travel, statement credits, gift cards, and shopping. Amex also offers the flexibility to transfer Membership Reward points to several airlines and hotel loyalty programs, often providing enhanced value. You can find out how to redeem your points on the Amex Membership rewards page.

Key Features

• Purchase Rate: 22.95% p.a.
• Cash Advance Rate: 22.95% p.a.
• Balance Transfer: Not offered
• Annual Fee: $200.00
• Interest Free Days: 55 days
• Minimum Repayment: $10.00 or 3%
• Card Reward Details: Get 2 points per $1 spent with the award-winning Membership Rewards programme.
• Credit Limit: Available on application
• Other Fees: Late Payment Fee: $25, Dishonour Fee: $25

IMPORTANT NOTE: please review the credit card details on the provider's website again before applying.

The American Express Gold Rewards Credit Card Review

What we like about the American Express Gold Rewards Credit Card

Membership Rewards Program

The American Express Gold Rewards Credit Card offers a robust Membership Rewards Programme. You can earn points on every purchase, which can be redeemed for travel, shopping, or even statement credits. This flexibility makes it easy to get the most out of your spending.

Travel Insurance Coverage

Cardholders enjoy comprehensive travel insurance coverage. This includes trip cancellation, lost luggage, and medical emergencies. Such coverage provides peace of mind when travelling, knowing you are protected against unforeseen events.

Dining and Entertainment Perks

With the American Express Gold Rewards Credit Card, you gain access to exclusive dining and entertainment perks. Enjoy special offers at top restaurants and early access to tickets for popular events. These perks enhance your lifestyle, making every outing a special occasion.

Drawbacks of the American Express Gold Rewards Credit Card

Annual Fees

One of the main drawbacks of the American Express Gold Rewards Credit Card is its annual fee. This fee can be quite high compared to other credit cards available in New Zealand but the benefits should more than offsets the cost for most card holders, it is essential to consider whether the perks align with your spending habits and lifestyle.

Is the American Express Gold Rewards Credit Card Right for You?

Deciding whether the American Express Gold Rewards Credit Card suits your needs involves considering several factors. This card offers a range of benefits, but it may not be the perfect fit for everyone. Here are some key points to help you determine if this card aligns with your lifestyle and spending habits.

Lifestyle Considerations

Evaluate your lifestyle to see if the perks of the American Express Gold Rewards Credit Card match your daily activities. If you frequently dine out, travel, or enjoy entertainment, the rewards and benefits can be quite appealing. However, if your spending is more focused on other areas, you might not fully utilise the card's offerings.

Spending Habits

Your spending habits play a crucial role in maximising the benefits of this card. The American Express Gold Rewards Credit Card is ideal for those who can meet the spending requirements to earn Membership Rewards points. If you tend to spend less or prefer to save, the annual fees and interest rates might outweigh the benefits.

Alternative Options

Consider other credit cards available in the market. Compare the American Express Gold Rewards Credit Card with other credit cards to see which one offers the best value for your specific needs. Look at factors such as rewards programs, annual fees, and additional perks to make an informed decision.

By carefully assessing these aspects, you can determine if the American Express Gold Rewards Credit Card is the right choice for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is an Amex Membership Reward Point worth?

1 Amex Membership Rewards Points = 0.625 cents NZD when redeemed for Gift Cards.

1 Amex Membership Rewards Points = 0.50 cents NZD in statement credit.

Note: The value of American Express Membership Rewards points can vary based on how you redeem your points. We have provided some examples to give you an indication of value but for a more precise valuation, you should check the specific redemption options available through the American Express rewards site, as the value can differ depending on promotions and transfer partners.

Gift Card:
16,000 Membership Rewards Points = $100 Bunnings Gift card.

Statement Credit:
When redeemed for statement credit 20,000 Membership Reward Points = $100 NZD in statement credit.

Our research suggests that you get more value for your Amex Membership Rewards Points by redeeming your points for travel, gift cards, and shopping with Amex partners rather than as statement credit.

Do I need to be a New Zealand resident to apply for the American Express Gold Rewards Credit Card?

Yes, you must be a New Zealand resident to apply for the American Express Gold Rewards Credit Card.

What are the main benefits of the American Express Gold Rewards Credit Card?

The main benefits include access to the Membership Rewards Program, comprehensive travel insurance, and special perks for dining and entertainment.

Are there any drawbacks to the American Express Gold Rewards Credit Card?

Some of the drawbacks include a high annual fee, higher interest rates compared to other cards, and limited acceptance at some merchants.

How can I maximise my Membership Rewards points?

You can maximise your points by using them for travel, dining, and shopping within the AMEX network, as well as taking advantage of special offers and promotions.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Be aged 18 or over
• Have no history of bad debt or payment default
• Have the right to work in New Zealand, and

Documents and information to have ready:

• NZ Driver’s Licence number (if you have one)
• Details of your income, expenses and debts
• Proof of your annual income and employment details (e.g. Inland Revenue Department (IRD) Statement, payslips)

No documents required to apply¹

The Amex Airpoints Platinum Card is the FASTEST Air NZ Airpoints Dollar^TM earning Platinum credit card. Every $70 spend earns you 1 Airpoints Dollar. Every $70 spend earns you 1 Airpoints Dollar. This card also includes complimentary Travel Insurance, VIP Lounge access and more. CURRENT OFFER: Be rewarded with 400 bonus Airpoints Dollars™ when you apply, are approved and spend $1,500 on your new Card within the first 3 months. New Amex Card Members only. Offer ends 26th May 2025.

More Info »

*Terms and conditions apply

What is the best credit card in New Zealand?

We've been asked this question a lot so we have compiled our pick of the best credit card in NZ but keep in mind that the best credit card for you depends on your personal circumstance and needs. To find the best credit card for you, we recommend that you compare all credit cards in NZ on our website or narrow down your search by popular credit card types as shown below. Use the top menu of the page to select more credit card types.

• Airpoints credit card
• Credit cards rewards
• Frequent flyer credit cards
• Travel credit cards
• Interest free credit card
• Credit card with travel insurance
• Credit cards with lounge access
• Lowest interest rate credit card
• Best credit card rewards

1. Documents not required with initial application, but might be required if your application is accepted.