Is it safe to withdraw cash in New Zealand or not?
Stayed in Rotorua and used a Kiwibank ATM late one night near Eat Streat. Plenty of light and activity around, plus cameras overhead. It’s one of those countries where you don’t feel on edge doing simple things late at night.
Even in small towns like Wanaka, I had no trouble using ATMs at 9 PM or later. I used a BNZ ATM near a grocery store, and it worked perfectly. I wouldn’t hesitate to withdraw money after dark in most parts of NZ.
In Queenstown, I withdrew NZD from an ANZ machine after a night out. Loads of people around, and the machine was inside a lit foyer. Locals use ATMs freely at night - it’s a non-issue in most places unless you're in remote countryside.
I used a Westpac ATM in Wellington near Cuba Street around 10:30 PM. It was well-lit, surrounded by late-night eateries, and felt totally secure. ATM safety in New Zealand at night is excellent in urban centers - very low crime and reliable machines.