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:
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Passport (NZ or foreign)
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NZ Driver License (must be accompanied by a supporting document like a bank statement or utility bill)
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NZ Firearms License
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National Identity Card (for foreign nationals)
2. Supporting Documents (for address verification)
Anyone of the following:
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Utility bill (e.g. electricity, water, internet)
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Bank statement
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Government agency letter (e.g. IRD, Ministry of Social Development)
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Tenancy agreement or rates notice
These documents must be:
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Issued within the last 3 months
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From a reliable and independent source
3. Certified Copies (if not face-to-face)
If documents are provided remotely, they must be certified by:
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A lawyer
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Justice of the Peace
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Chartered Accountant
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Notary Public
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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:
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Certificate of Incorporation
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Trust deed
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Shareholder register
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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:
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Establish the origin of the funds used for the purchase.
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Request documentation such as:
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Bank statements
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Loan agreements
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Sale agreements from previous assets
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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.