TL;DR: You can get a free credit report from each of NZ’s three agencies: Centrix, Equifax and Experian. Each has its own process; Equifax’s free option takes about 10 business days (paid is faster). Check for accounts you didn’t open (loans, cards, power accounts, BNPL), missed payments, defaults and enquiries you didn’t approve. Errors must be corrected by the provider or agency. If your info was stolen, suppress your file.
Where to get it
From govt.nz:
| Agency | Where to request |
|---|---|
| Centrix | Request section on its "my credit score" page |
| Equifax | Products section; free option "Get my report in 10 business days" |
| Experian | Ordered through CreditConnect |
Each holds slightly different data, so checking all three gives the full picture. Ignore the upsells unless you actually need a report tomorrow.
Your rights under the Credit Reporting Privacy Code
The Privacy Commissioner’s summary of rights sets the rules every agency has to follow:
| Right | What the code says |
|---|---|
| Copy of your report | Generally free, provided without undue delay |
| Urgent copy (within 3 working days) | The agency may charge, but no more than $10 |
| Disputing an error | Decided as soon as possible; if it’ll take over 20 working days, they must tell you why |
| Fraud suppression | Initially 10 working days, extendable if fraud is ongoing |
| Credit score | You can ask for an explanation of any score they’ve created |
So any site charging you $30 for "instant" access is selling you speed, not access. The free route is the legal default.
How long things stay on your file
- Most adverse information (defaults, judgments, bankruptcies): generally shown for 4 to 5 years, then kept one more year.
- Current accounts: can be shown until 2 years after the account closes.
- ID information and records of multiple bankruptcies: can be kept indefinitely.
A default from a phone plan you forgot about in 2022 can still matter in 2026. Worth a look before a mortgage application.
What to check
- Credit accounts you didn’t apply for: loans, credit cards, power bill accounts, buy now pay later.
- Missed payments you didn’t know about.
- Defaults: accounts sent to debt collection after missed payments.
- Credit enquiries you didn’t give permission for.
A power account you never opened might sound minor. It’s often the first step in building a fake identity history.
Fixing errors
- Missed payments or defaults: contact the credit provider or company named. If it’s wrong, they must correct it.
- Errors in the report itself (like your address): contact each agency. Centrix takes direct contact; Equifax has a disputes process; Experian requires you to log in.
- Your rights are explained on the Privacy Commissioner’s website.
Signs of identity theft
If you see things you don’t recognise:
- Contact the lender and the agency.
- Place a credit suppression (how).
- Report to Police (105) and get help from IDCARE (0800 121 068).
When to check
- once or twice a year as routine;
- after any breach you’re caught in;
- before a home loan application;
- after losing your wallet, licence or passport.
A free exposure check shows which breaches your email is in, which is a good prompt to pull your reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a free credit report in New Zealand?
Yes, from Centrix, Equifax and Experian. Each has its own process and timeframe.
How long does a free Equifax report take in NZ?
Equifax’s free option is labelled "Get my report in 10 business days."
What should I look for on my NZ credit report?
Accounts you didn’t open, missed payments, defaults and credit enquiries you didn’t approve.
Can a credit agency charge me for my report in NZ?
Copies are generally free. An agency may charge up to $10 if you want the report urgently, within three working days.
How do I fix a mistake on my credit report?
Contact the credit provider for payment errors, or each agency for errors in the report itself.