Google Pay is one of the most popular E-wallet payment systems in the world, and it is an undeniable leader in New Zealand trumping Apple Pay by a sheer number of users. Statista predicts that use of E-wallets or digital/mobile wallets will grow from 11% in 2023 to 23% in 2027.
More and more Kiwi users choose Google Pay for its security, convenience of use, local bank compatibility, and availability as an online payment option. We know that our readers like to play in the NZ casinos that accept Google Pay for those exact reasons. How does Google Pay work in NZ and all the necessary details are below, happy reading!
What Is Google Pay?
So, let’s see what is Google Pay and how does it work? As you may know Google Pay is a mobile wallet, from a well-known tech giant Google. It is an app that you can install on your Android or iOS and make contactless (offline) and online payments with it. All you need will be a compatible device (which is most of modern devices), Google Account and a bank that supports this payment option (and again there are a lot that do support Google Pay in NZ).
The app is highly popular for these legit reasons, and more: security, ease of use and speed of transactions. All the above-mentioned factors play their role for New Zealand users who choose Google Pay.
How Google Pay Works on Different Devices
Another huge advantage of Google Pay is its compatibility with different kinds of NFC-capable devices, this little guy is not limited to Google products like Pixel phones or Android, it is also available on iOS (only online payments in New Zealand) and a variety of smartwatches.
This widespread availability is definitely an amazing advantage for the users, because you are not limited by one brand or one operative system. Plus, in case you are jumping ship for example, from Android to iPhone you still have an option of keeping your Google Pay.
How Does Google Pay Work on Android?
Google Pay works flawlessly on Android devices, for online payment and in-person contactless or just tap your phone shopping, it was meant for it. Did you know that Google Pay is actually a result of Google Wallet (old version) and Android Pay combination? Well, it is. Basically, they got those apps and smooshed them into Google Pay. Although, as on June 4, 2024 the app is yet again called Google Wallet, but many, as do we in fact, keep using Google Pay or GPay name.
So if you were worried about – how does Google Pay work on Android? No need to. It is compatible with all devices that have Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher with NFC function.
To start using GPay on Android you’ll need:
- a compatible device with NFC, Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or higher;
- Google Account;
- a bank credit or debit card that supports Google Pay. Our New Zealand readers can check if their bank or banks support GPay;
- Google Wallet app (Wallet), it is usually pre-installed on Android devices, but if it is not, you can easily download it from Google Play.
Adding payment options (credit/debit card or even Bank Account) to GPay is super easy, barely an inconvenience. You manage it from the Goggle Wallet app or from your banking app (most of the banks have this option).
The basic steps of adding a card to GPay consist of:
- Open Google Wallet aka Google Pay app > Payment Methods > Add Payment Method > Scan the card or insert the details > Verification process (may require confirmation from your bank > Finishing prompts > and DONE!
After that you are ready to do online shopping, play in the top NZ casino or use contactless payments.
How Does Google Pay Work on iOS?
The biggest advantage of Google Pay especially in comparison with Apple and Samsung Pay is its compatibility with devices. Although Apple Pay is also an amazing payment option, it is great to have more than one.
Google Pay is fully operational on iOS in the US and partially operational on iOS devices in other countries. In New Zealand you can use Google Pay on iOS for online payments only, because Google Wallet is not available for download outside of the US. If you have had an Android phone with GPay and switched to iPhone or iPad, or Mac after – you will have it as an option for online payments as usual, and will be able to easily choose between Apple or Google Pay.
How Does Google Pay Work on Other Devices?
Although it seems like the world revolves around Android and iOS, there are other devices that support Google Pay. These are mostly different types of smartwatches with Wear OS and NFC capabilities, even Samsung Galaxy watch series support it. Some users even prefer Google Pay over Samsung Pay, or not prefer but have it as an only option. Samsung Pay has a pretty limited reach, it is not available in New Zealand so Google Pay will be a great option for our kiwi users with a Samsung device.
Using Google Pay for Different Types of Purchases
Google Pay has a variety of uses, online and offline, from online shopping to services. More and more stores, and online platforms adopt Google Pay as a payment system. It is an amazing strategic move on their part since the speed and ease of use make the user-experience better.
Using Google Pay for In-Store and Offline Payments
Contactless payments are so adored for a reason, it simply convenient, secure and saves time. Google Pay can be used in all offline stores that have a contactless payment – many kiwis call it PayWave option, look for NFC logo (often they would even have a GPay logo too).
There is nothing difficult about contactless Google Pay in-store transactions, the only thing you will need beforehand is a fully operational app with linked payment card (for how to do that go to our how to set-up Google Pay page).
The actual steps are simple:
- Step 1: Unlock Your Phone
- Unlock your phone using the password or biometrics (fingerprint or face ID).
- Step 2: Prepare for Payment
- Depending on your settings next step will be:
- tap device to the terminal;
- open app > select card > tap device to terminal;
- double click the power button and tap device to terminal.
- Step 3: Enter Your PIN code*
- Enter the PIN code for the bank card. *Possible but not an every time requirement, may be: for large sums of money or depending on your bank’s terms and conditions.
- Step 4: Finalize the Transaction
- Receive your receipt and it is done!
Using Google Pay for Online Purchases
The process of online purchases may slightly vary from platform to platform but in general it will be pretty similar and straightforward. During the checkout step you will need to pick a Google Pay option, after that it will forward to a separate payment page > next, you will need to chose the card for payment, if you have more then one linked to GPay > at this point, usually you will have to make a confirmation on your banking app or via code send to your phone (it will depend on your bank).
Is Google Pay Safe to Use in New Zealand?
Google Pay is very safe and secure, we would even go as far as to say extremely safe and secure. Basically, when you make transactions with Google Pay all of your personal information is protected with tokenization, which means that a single-use encoded token goes though the process and not your private data.
Additionally, Google Pay is used on the devices, and requires CVM or Cardholder Verification Method. This means that the payment can only be attempted after the PIN, pattern, or biometric option – fingerprint or face ID is used. As well as – Google Find My Device option which allows you to remotely cancel and sign out in case of theft or loss.
Because of these additional safety mechanisms, it is much safer to use GPay rather than go and pay with your credit or debit card. For more details and in-depth discussion see our article on Google Pay security features.
Benefits of Using Google Pay in New Zealand
The advantages and benefits of Google Pay for kiwi users are undeniable. We at Gamblorium think that GPay safety is outstanding, and we all agree that it is the major selling point. But, our kiwi users should also know that tap-and-go contactless payments with its speed and convenience, availability online and offline are what complete the app. Together these features have made it a highly competitive modern and relevant product.
Conclusion
Android is leading in New Zealand at 60.64% and with it Google Pay as a main contactless payment option. Google Pay is an obvious leader, and it is not the hype: it has top-notch security and safety features, convenience and ease of use, and it is widely popular and accessible. GPay is a great option for online casinos, but if you are still not sure – check our NZ casino payment methods page to see all the options. We hope you got useful info on Google Pay, how does it work and is it for you.
