AML Checks Explained

A simple FAQ for property buyers and sellers in New Zealand

What is AML?

AML stands for Anti-Money Laundering. New Zealand law requires real estate agencies to carry out certain checks to help prevent property transactions being used to hide illegally obtained money or finance terrorism.

Why do I need to complete AML checks?

These checks help us confirm who you are, who you are acting for and, where required, who ultimately owns or controls the people or entities involved in a transaction.

Completing AML checks is a legal requirement where the rules apply. It does not mean we suspect you of doing anything wrong.

When should I complete the checks?

As early as possible. Promptly providing the requested information can help avoid delays when listing a property, signing an agreement or progressing a purchase.

The information we need depends on how you are buying or selling. See the relevant section below.

Buying or selling as an individual

Buying or selling through a trust

Buying or selling through a company

Buying or selling as an individual

You will generally need to provide: • Proof of identity: for example, a valid passport or another form of identification accepted for the verification process. • Proof of address: an acceptable bank statement, utility bill or other approved document, if required. • Personal details: your full legal name, date of birth and residential address. We will confirm which documents are acceptable for our verification process.

Buying or selling through a trust

Depending on the trust structure, we may ask for: • Trust details: the full name of the trust and a copy of the trust deed, including relevant variations or amendments. • Trustees: names and identification details of the relevant trustees. • Settlor information: details of the person or people who established or contributed to the trust, as required. • Beneficiaries: details of relevant beneficiaries or beneficiary classes, as applicable. • People with control: details of anyone else who exercises relevant control over the trust, where required. • Authority to act: confirmation of who is authorised to sign documents and act on behalf of the trust.

Buying or selling through a company

Depending on the company structure, we may ask for: • Company details: the full legal company name and Companies Office registration details. • Directors: details and identification of relevant directors. • Shareholders and owners: information about people who ultimately own or control the company. • Beneficial owners: identification details for relevant individuals who ultimately own or exercise control over the company. • Authority to act: confirmation that the person signing or instructing us is authorised to act for the company. • Company documents: supporting records, such as company information or resolutions, if required.

Frequently asked questions

What should I do next?

Please let us know how you intend to buy or sell the property:

As an individual
Jointly with another person
Through a trust
Through a company
Through another ownership structure

We can then provide a tailored list of the information and documents required for your circumstances.

Thank you for your cooperation. We appreciate that these checks can feel like extra paperwork, and we will do our best to make the process straightforward.

Get in touch

Important note: This FAQ is a general guide, not a definitive list of AML/CFT requirements. The exact checks and documents required depend on the transaction, ownership structure, applicable law and the agency’s compliance procedures. Please contact us if you are unsure what applies to you.