Thunes Expands to New Zealand with Real-Time Pay-to-Bank Services
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Thunes Expands to New Zealand with Real-Time Pay-to-Bank Services

The expansion strengthens its cross-border payment network in the Asia-Pacific region.

4/24/2026
Ali Abounasr El Alaoui
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Global payments firm Thunes has expanded its network into New Zealand, introducing direct, real-time payment services to local bank accounts. This strategic move enhances the company's cross-border capabilities within the Asia-Pacific region. The launch promises faster and more transparent financial solutions for businesses and consumers engaging in international transactions.


Enhancing Financial Connectivity in Asia-Pacific

Members of Thunes' Direct Global Network can now seamlessly transfer New Zealand dollars directly into any bank account within the country. This new functionality is accessible through two primary methods for streamlined integration. Clients can connect via a direct API or leverage existing Swift connectivity to access the real-time payment rails.

The service is designed to improve the efficiency and transparency of cross-border payments for a wide range of users. By facilitating instant fund transfers, Thunes addresses the growing demand for faster settlement in commercial and peer-to-peer transactions. This development helps modernize the payment landscape and reduces friction in international money movement.

Supporting New Zealand's Digital Economy

This expansion aligns with New Zealand's ongoing efforts to upgrade its national financial infrastructure for digital commerce. The country is experiencing a surge in its gig economy, which relies on prompt and reliable payment systems. Real-time transactions in New Zealand are projected to grow at a compound annual rate of 21.3% through 2027.

Eugene Chua, Thunes' Head of Network for APAC, noted the company's commitment to dismantling barriers in the global digital economy. He emphasized the significance of strengthening the company's presence in a high-growth market like New Zealand. Chua stated that Thunes aims to provide infrastructure that empowers individuals and businesses to participate more fully in global finance.

The Technology Behind the Expansion

Thunes' network is powered by sophisticated in-house technology designed for optimal performance and reliability. Its SmartX Treasury System utilizes artificial intelligence for predictive forecasting and real-time liquidity management across its network. This ensures funds are available to complete transactions instantly, minimizing delays and operational hurdles for members.

Security and regulatory adherence are managed through its proprietary Fortress Compliance Platform. This system is reinforced by over 50 licenses held worldwide, ensuring every payment meets stringent international standards. The platform provides robust protection and operational integrity, giving users confidence that their transactions are secure and compliant.

Thunes' Global Payment Infrastructure

The New Zealand corridor is the latest addition to Thunes' extensive global payment infrastructure, which already spans over 140 countries. The network facilitates payments in more than 90 currencies, connecting to a vast ecosystem of financial endpoints. This includes billions of mobile wallets, bank accounts, and cards accessible through over 220 payment methods.

Thunes serves a diverse clientele that includes some of the world's leading technology and gig economy platforms. Companies such as Uber, Deliveroo, and Grab rely on its network to manage payouts and other cross-border financial flows. This track record highlights the network's capacity to support high-volume, real-time payments for major global enterprises.


The launch of real-time payments in New Zealand marks a pivotal milestone for Thunes, reinforcing its strategic focus on the Asia-Pacific market. This expansion supports New Zealand's economic digitization and strengthens the global payment ecosystem with more efficient financial pathways. Ultimately, this move underscores the importance of interconnected networks in fostering greater participation in the global economy.