Despite fears of further red tape, the introduction of the new digital Kiwi Access card has been promised not to burden hospitality workers further.
While the hospitality sector already needs to check the identification of customers, the digital Kiwi Access Card, which is set to launch over the winter months, has promised to be a modern approach to this procedure, and can be checked via a free-to-download government app.
Industry bodies have worked closely with the Government to minimise any costs or disruption to the industry.
The introduction of the Digital Kiwi Access card was announced by former Digitising Government and Public Service Minister Judith Collins in March this year.
She said it would provide New Zealanders with easy access to government digital services, such as communications and proof of digital identity.
Its future was also outlined in the recent amendments to the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act, which was passed by Parliament before Easter.
“This digital credential could be used by customers to present their Kiwi Access Card on their phone at a bar or event entrance, so staff can confirm age eligibility quickly and securely without handling a physical card,” said Collins.
“By July 2026, secure messaging will also be available in the app, allowing New Zealanders to receive communications directly from government agencies on things like vehicle registration reminders or travel advisories.”
Collins added that these new features would give New Zealanders more choice in how they access government services through an app that is robust, secure, and widely usable.
For more than two decades, the Kiwi Access Card has been one of New Zealand’s most recognised forms of identification, helping hundreds of thousands of people prove their age and identity. The new digital Kiwi Access Credential will build on that legacy, offering a secure, convenient way for people to verify who they are directly from their smartphone while maintaining control of their personal information.
The new digital credential has used global verifiable credential standards, and will deliver benefits, convenience and trust for users and businesses.
Its main objectives have been to reduce identity theft and fraud through cryptographically secure, tamper-resistant credentials; limit data sharing, ensuring only essential information is exchanged with consent; simplify compliance with the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act and other verification requirements; and improve trust and efficiency across everyday age and identity checks.
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