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Choosing a credit card that fits your life.

Not all credit cards are the same – and that’s a good thing! Take a moment to decide what matters to you, so you can choose one that works for you, not against you.

1. Know what you want.

The right credit card depends on what you need it for. Ask yourself: What am I using it for?

Building your credit score

If you’re just starting out:

Choose a basic, low-limit card
Set up automatic payments to avoid missing repayments
Pay in full each month to build a good credit history.

Everyday spending

If you’ll use your card for regular purchases or bills, you might want:

Interest-free days (as long as you pay in full each month)
A low annual fee
Simple rewards or cashback for frequent use.

Paying off existing debt

If you're consolidating debt or paying down a balance:

Look for a low balance transfer rate
Avoid high annual fees
Make a plan to pay it off before the promotional rate ends.

Earning rewards

If you want to earn rewards:

Choose a card that matches your spending style
Make sure the earn rate justifies the annual fee
Check whether rewards expire or have limits.

2. Compare key features.

Before you apply, take time to consider these key features:

What to check	Why it matters
Interest rate	If you carry a balance, a lower rate can help reduce your repayments over time.
Annual fee	Some cards charge higher fees for added benefits – decide if the value adds up for you.
Interest-free days	Helps you avoid interest if you pay the full balance each month.
Rewards	Make sure the rewards are useful to you, and that you're not paying more in fees than you’re earning back.
Balance transfer offers	Can be handy for managing debt but check how long the offer lasts and what rate it reverts to.
Minimum credit limit	Some cards have set minimums – check that it aligns with your comfort level.

Compare Westpac credit cards

3. A credit card is a commitment.

Used wisely, a credit card can give you flexibility and help build your financial wellbeing. If you're unsure what’s right for you, these guides might help:

Still not sure? We’re here to help.

If you’d like help figuring out which card might suit you, we're here to chat. A credit card may not be right for you, depending on your situation and what’s important to you. If you need help talk to one of our Westpac Team in branch or call us on 0800 888 111 between 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday or 9am to 3pm Saturdays.

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Compare cards.

Credit card comparison tool

Use our credit card comparison tool to take a closer look at the different features available, reward earn rates, annual fees and interest rates to find which one suits your needs best.

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Insurance – what’s included?

Travel insurance, purchase protection insurance and extended warranty cover is included with selected Westpac credit cards¹.

Learn more

Things you should know.

This page is for general information purposes only and does not take your financial situation or goals into account.

Credit Cards terms and conditions, eligibility criteria and lending criteria apply. Conditions of Use for the applicable card apply. Rates, transaction and services fees apply.

Balance Transfer Terms and Conditions and lending criteria apply.

Insurance terms, conditions, exclusions and eligibility criteria apply. Travel, Extended Warranty and Purchase Protection Insurances arranged by Westpac and underwritten by AIG Insurance New Zealand Limited. Westpac does not guarantee the obligations of, or any products issued by, AIG.