FAQs for Locals
Everything you need to know about a My Card and how to use it.
How do I get a card?
Apply online here or in person at the My Card counter, Rotorua I-SITE, 1167 Fenton Street Rotorua. Our operating hours are 8.30am to 5.00pm daily. Bring photo ID and verification of address with you to prove you are a Rotorua local.
We will take a photograph of you on arrival, complete your application, issue your card and you are good to go.
If signing up online, you will need to upload this information and you will receive your card within 5 working days, given you have provided all the correct information.
How long will applying for a card take?
We issue the cards in person – maximum of 5 minutes per application. Note; it may take longer in the first few of weeks of issuing cards due to the volume of people wanting them. If signing up online, allow a minimum of 5 working days for your card to arrive.
Is there a digital card?
No, however you can take a photograph of the card (QR Code side up) and store this on your phone for use.
Do I need to have a card for every single family member?
Depending on your whānau/family make up you can choose to have just ONE whānau/family for you all and then list their names on your application, however the primary cardholder must be present when redeeming offers and deals.
We encourage all individuals over the age of 16 to apply for a card. If you have children, you can add them to your card. You can only do this when signing up; you will need to provide their name/s and birth year.
Children are regarded as 0-15 years of age inclusive and adults 16 years and over.
Can I use the card for out-of-town guests?
Some businesses may choose to extend the offers to accompanying guests; you will need to check what each business states in their terms and conditions. However, the intention of this card is that Rotorua local’s receive the benefit directly.
How do I change the family members listed on the card?
It is important that children be added to a card when signing up. If you need to update this, pop into the i-site, 1167 Fenton Street and we will get you sorted. There can be up to two adults listed on one card however only one primary cardholder who needs to be present when redeeming any discounts.
How do I update my contact details?
Send an email to us with what you would like to change or add or pop into the ISITE, 1167 Fenton Street and we will get you sorted.
What happens to my personal information?
Your personal information such as ID and address verification will be VIEWED ONLY and typed in to our card distribution system, Platicard. Your information is not shared with any other business or person. When applying online there is view only access and all information will be deleted from the system within 28 days. The photo of the main cardholder will be uploaded to Plasticards, the system used to issue cards and this will be attached to your card.
When visiting businesses, they scan the QR code on the card and will be able to see your photo.
RotoruaNZ has access to your personal records and can amend, delete or update with your permission.
Will you spam our family with lots of emails?
On signing up you choose what information you would like to receive from us and how you would like to receive it. Throughout the year there will be special card holder events, giveaways and offers, so we recommend that you keep up to date with what is on.
How much does the card cost?
The card is free of charge for the first issue. If you have lost your card there is a $5.00 replacement fee.
What identification do I need to apply?
Photo ID and proof of address – to prove local residence. Photo ID must be valid and can be:
- Student ID card
- 18+ Card
- Passport
- NZ driver’s License
Address verification can be online (from emails on a device or paper version) and must be dated within 3months of signing up, this can be:
- Bank Statement
- Rates bill
- Electricity Bill, or likewise
How does the card work?
Just present the card at participating businesses to redeem the offer. They will verify that you are the card holder and provide the offer as specified.
I have a Gold Card – do I still need a local’s card?
Discounts offered by the Gold Card and the My Card are often quite different. You can have both a Gold Card and a My Card, however, it is at the discretion of individual businesses to determine how the two cards interact for their discounts.
I’m on a working holiday visa and here for 6 months, can I get a card?
Yes, just make sure you bring proof of residence, e.g mail that has your name on it and your Rotorua postal address.
I’m an exchange student, staying with a local family, can I get a card?
Yes, get your host family to add them to their card.
Where can I find a list of the available discounts?
You can view the offers online here.
How do I know if I qualify as a resident?
You must be in Rotorua for at least three months and provide ID to prove residence.
A resident is someone that has resided within the Rotorua Ratepayer catchment for a minimum of three months.
Nonresidents that are Rotorua ratepayers are also entitled to this card e.g. you may own rental property or a holiday home in the Rotorua catchment area.