Retail Banks:Retail banks focus on personal banking services for the general public. Their core business is account management and personal and home loans for individuals and small businesses. Note: Both Auckland Savings Bank (ASB) and National Bank have specialised Migrant Banking divisions. ASB has a branch in London where you can open an account prior to arrival. 

Wholesale Banks: Wholesale banks specialise in business and corporate finance, though some may also offer personal banking services.

Credit Unions: A Credit Union operates around a group of members who save and borrow from each other at reasonable rates of interest. As well as savings and loans, Credit Unions may offer other banking products such as an ATM card, telephone and internet banking and insurance. Each Credit Union is based around a group of members with a mutual interest. For example, they may work for the same company or live in the same community.

Building Societies: Building Societies specialise in home loans and are often focussed on servicing a particular region of the country.

The PSIS: PSIS is a co-operative company that provides personal banking services.

Finance Companies:  The key focus of finance companies is lending for all sorts of purchases.

Mortgage Providers: Mortgage Providers focus specifically on providing lending for private and commercial real estate purchases.