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How to Buy – Step 2 of 3 - Legal Requirements for Identity and Source of Funds Verification

To verify identity for property transactions in New Zealand under the AML/CFT Act, reporting entities (like lawyers and real estate agents) must collect and confirm specific identity documents. Here's what’s acceptable:

Acceptable Identity Documents

1. Primary Photo ID (with name, date of birth, and photo)

Anyone of the following:

  • Passport (NZ or foreign)

  • NZ Driver License (must be accompanied by a supporting document like a bank statement or utility bill)

  • NZ Firearms License

  • National Identity Card (for foreign nationals)

2. Supporting Documents (for address verification)

Anyone of the following:

  • Utility bill (e.g. electricity, water, internet)

  • Bank statement

  • Government agency letter (e.g. IRD, Ministry of Social Development)

  • Tenancy agreement or rates notice

 

These documents must be:

  • Issued within the last 3 months

  • From a reliable and independent source

3. Certified Copies (if not face-to-face)

If documents are provided remotely, they must be certified by:

  • A lawyer

  • Justice of the Peace

  • Chartered Accountant

  • Notary Public

  • NZ Police Officer

 

The certifier must:

- Sign and date the copy

- Include their name, title, and registration number (if applicable)

- State that it’s a true copy of the original

4. Electronic Verification (optional)

International Document Support: Centrix SmartID can verify Australian and Singaporean government-issued documents, including passports, driver licenses, visas, and Medicare cards. [centrix.co.nz]

5. For Non-Individuals (e.g. Companies, Trusts)

 

Additional documents may be required:

  • Certificate of Incorporation

  • Trust deed

  • Shareholder register

  • Proof of authority to act (e.g. board resolution, power of attorney)

Source of Funds and Wealth

In cases where the transaction is high-value or involves overseas buyers—agents and lawyers may be required to:

 

  • Establish the origin of the funds used for the purchase.

  • Request documentation such as:

  • Bank statements

  • Loan agreements

  • Sale agreements from previous assets

  • Trust deeds or company financials

If the source of funds cannot be verified, the agent or lawyer may be legally prohibited from proceeding with the transaction.

+64-204-5070-500

49/1420 Hamurana Road

Mourea

Rotorua

New Zealand

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