New Zealand Seniors to Get Photographic ID Option on SuperGold Card by 2028

New Zealand’s seniors will soon be able to use their SuperGold cards as an official form of identification, making it easier for them to access essential services.

Budget 2026 is funding the modernisation of the SuperGold Card to give users the free option to upgrade to a version which they can use as an accepted form of primary identification, Seniors Minister Casey Costello announced today.

More than 900,000 New Zealanders are aged 65 and over and many do not have legal ID such as a driver licence or passport, which can limit their ability to access things like banking and legal services.

The upgraded card will include a photograph and enhanced security features, and meet standards required by banks and other service providers. It will be available in both physical and digital versions.

Having the photographic ID will be optional and the SuperGold Card will remain free of charge to anyone over 65.

This will be free, because older New Zealanders should not have to pay just to prove who they are, Casey Costello says.

The Government will invest $36.4 million in operating funding and $6.5 million in capital funding over four years to deliver the new identification-enabled SuperGold Card and supporting systems.

Work will now begin on detailed design and implementation, with rollout of the upgraded card expected from October 2028. Until then, SuperGold card holders who want a form of photographic ID can continue to arrange to have a photo added to their card by visiting their nearest AA office.

The SuperGold Card is already a trusted and valued tool for older New Zealanders, Casey Costello says.

This change modernises the card and builds on what it already offers by making it easier for people to access the services they need.