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The Tern blog
Tips and deep-dives on making your money go further on a working holiday.
Cheapest ways to send savings home from New Zealand
Your NZ bank's transfer looks straightforward — until you spot the exchange rate. Here's where the money goes and how to keep more of your hard-earned savings on the way home.
Wise vs Revolut for a working holiday — and what both miss
Both Wise and Revolut are great travel-money apps with multi-currency accounts. Here's an honest comparison for working holiday makers — plus the WHV-specific features neither of them offers.
What is an IRD number? Guide for working holiday makers
No IRD number in New Zealand means your employer must withhold tax at the non-declaration rate of 45%. Here's what an IRD number is, the catch-22 around getting one, and how to apply.
What is superannuation? A guide for working holiday makers
Your Australian employer must pay 12% of your wages into a super fund — on top of your salary. You can claim most of it back when you leave via DASP. Here's how it works.
What is a TFN? Australia tax number guide for WHV makers
Without a TFN your employer withholds 45% of your wages. Here's what a TFN is, how to apply free via the ATO once you're in Australia, and the ABN trap every WHV maker should know about.
What is a BSB number? Australian banking explained
Before your first Australian paycheque can land, your employer needs a BSB number. Here's what it is, where to find it, and why giving your SWIFT code by mistake delays your pay.
Second-year visa: track your 88 days of specified work
A second year in Australia means 88 days of specified work — and the paperwork to prove it. Cash-in-hand days don't count. Here's how not to lose your extension.
Proof of funds for a working holiday visa: how much to show
Australia wants to see ~AUD 5,000. New Zealand NZD 4,200. Here's how much each country expects — and how to produce a proof-of-funds statement border agents will accept.
The cheapest way to send money home on a working holiday
Your bank's transfer looks free — until you see the exchange rate. Here's how the markup works and how to keep more of your hard-earned savings when you send money home.