• What is a Credit Union?
• Who can join First Credit Union?
• How do I become a member?
• Are all credit unions the same?
• Who owns and controls First Credit Union?
• Is my money safe?

What is a Credit Union?
A Credit Union is a group of people within a common bond who join together and save money – and then lend this money to one another at the lowest possible rate of interest.  Most credit unions provide a full range of banking services to their members.

First Credit Union's “common bond” incorporates all of New Zealand, but the majority of our members are from either the Bay of Plenty or the Waikato. Read more about us here.

Who can join First Credit Union?
If you live in the New Zealand you are welcome to join First Credit Union, bearing in mind we will need to meet with you in person from time to time for identification purposes.

Apply to become a member online.

How do I become a member?
Easy!  Complete a membership application form online or in branch.

Online:
Step 1: Click here to fill out the online membership application.

Step 2: Download and print the form with the checklist provided. Send us the form signed by you with certified copies of two forms of ID. Easy!

In Branch:
Step 1: Get an application form. Either pick one up at any one of our branches or phone us and we'll post or fax it to you.

Step 2: Come in and see us. When you've completed the form, bring along two forms of ID and drop by one of our branches during working hours (9:00am and 4:30pm weekdays). Opening a new account takes around 20 minutes.

Are all credit unions the same?
There are 29 credit unions in New Zealand, and each one has a different common bond.  Each credit union is separate and independent – with different fees, interest rates and operating policies.  So although we may look the same we are as different as, say, ANZ and Kiwibank.

Who owns and controls First Credit Union?
Our members.  When you deposit money with us you become a member – and a shareholder.  As a shareholder you’re entitled to one vote – regardless of the level of savings or loans you have with us.

First Credit Union is legally required to hold an Annual General Meeting.  Each year at the meeting our members vote in a Board of Directors.  The Board is responsible to the members for the running and protection of First Credit Union.

Is my money safe?

First Credit Union has a guarantee under the New Zealand deposit guarantee scheme.

First Credit Union also complies with New Zealand’s legal requirements for financial institutions and operates under a registered Trust Deed that further protects members’ money.