Bring your passport, visa and proof of address. ANZ, ASB and BNZ let you apply before you arrive and activate the account at a branch; Kiwibank accounts can only be opened once you are in New Zealand. Several banks have branches around Victoria Street in Hamilton Central — check locations and hours on the bank's website first. You can usually open an account without an IRD number, but interest is taxed at 45% until you give the bank your IRD number.