Find out how postcodes work and view our Postcode Directory and maps.
How postcodes work
Postcodes are four digits and each digit has a specific meaning.
The first digit of the postcode represents one of ten machine 'lines' (numbered 0 - 9), which process mail for a specific geographic region. These run north to south in ascending order.
The second and third digits reflect postal sort areas and our New Zealand Post delivery network - urban posties, New Zealand Post PO Boxes, Private Bags and RuralPost.
The fourth digit identifies the specific box lobby, rural delivery round or urban area.
How to use postcodes
A postcode should be used on all addresses. If the postcode contains a leading zero, this zero must be included. The postcode must not include separators or spaces.
There are only one or two spaces between town/city and postcode, for example:
- Auckland 1112
- Christchurch 8110
For more details download the Quick guide to addressing your letters and parcels (PDF - 154KB)