From 30 April 2026, EFTPOS terminals running on PCI 4.X will be disconnected from the network. Payments NZ has confirmed this deadline, and there are no extensions. Businesses using PCI 4.X terminals will need to upgrade by April 2026 to stay compliant and keep accepting payments. An upgrade is also a chance to rethink what you need from your payment solution — not just a like-for-like swap.
What to look for in your next EFTPOS solution
Compliance and reliability
Your first priority is a terminal that meets current PCI standards so your business can keep trading without disruption.
Features that support your business
Modern EFTPOS devices offer much more than card acceptance. Look for features such as mobile options, detailed reporting, flexible connectivity, and the ability to add tools as your business grows.
Integration with your POS
If you use a point-of-sale system, check that your EFTPOS integrates smoothly. Integrated payments cut errors, speed up service, and give you better data.
Support when you need it
Payment downtime is stressful. Choose a provider with 24/7 technical help and fast replacement options if something goes wrong.
Future-proofing
Payments technology changes quickly. Select a solution that receives regular software updates so you’re covered for new standards and evolving customer expectations.
What to avoid
Some providers advertise low cost bundles. But the fine print often tells a different story. Here are some things to check before signing up:
-
Hidden fees – inserted Visa and Mastercard debit is free through banks, but some bundles charge extra. That can add up to hundreds — or even thousands — a year.
-
Surcharging – still allowed in New Zealand until May 2026. Bundled terminals may not support it, meaning you absorb all the costs.
-
Magstripe – around 1 in 5 card transactions still use it. Some bundled terminals don’t support magstripe, putting sales at risk.
- Fixed contracts – “free” usually comes with lock-ins. Make sure you know what you’re committing to.
Time to switch providers?
If you have a PCI 4.X device, it will need a physical terminal replacement rather than just a software update. If you're already considering an upgrade, why not take this opportunity to get in touch with your provider and ensure you're completely satisfied with their service?
Here are some key aspects to discuss with them, and how we compare:
Transaction reporting
As well as on-device reporting, we have a free merchant portal called Verifone Central.
Your Transaction Data At Your Fingertips
Real-Time Reporting
View all of your Verifone in-store and online transactions in real-time on Verifone Central. Our mobile responsive dashboard means you can monitor sales across all your stores from any device, anywhere - anytime!
Payment Tools
Accept card-not-present payments effortlessly with just a web browser with Virtual Terminal and create and send payment links in minutes with Pay by Link.
Report Scheduler
Automate your reporting with our flexible Report Scheduler. Create detailed transaction reports on Verifone Central with customisable filters, then automate the generation and delivery via email to you and your designated recipients for convenient access.
Templates
Customer support
EFTPOS is a major revenue stream for your business, so it's really important you understand what support options your EFTPOS provider offers. At Eftpos NZ, we've got your back 'round the clock! With our 24/7 local Technical Helpdesk, nationwide onsite support, overnight swap-outs and a dedicated Customer Service team, we ensure your EFTPOS experience is as smooth and hassle-free as possible. Our Technical Helpdesk is uniquely qualified to diagnose and resolve technical issues remotely, as we are the only terminal provider with our very own payment network. We manage our terminal fleet through our bespoke Terminal Management System and can deploy remote updates to your terminal should it need one. This is something other terminal suppliers cannot offer (unless they purchase terminals from us as a reseller).
Terminal swap outs
Just like any other piece of technology, EFTPOS terminals can experience faults over time. It's essential to know what plans and policies your provider has in place for replacing a faulty terminal. How quickly can they deliver a replacement terminal to your business, and what measures do they have in place to minimise any disruptions to your operations? For instance, Eftpos NZ Field reps always have EFTPOS terminals on hand for immediate swaps. We also have 'Rescue Sites' nationwide where you can swiftly access a new terminal in case troubleshooting options fall short. These terminals can be remotely programmed by our technical helpdesk, and if all else fails, we offer overnight delivery for non-rural terminal replacements. To further reduce any impact on your business, we offer a service called Swap Box, allowing you to lease a spare terminal at a discounted rate. We also provide Terminal Plus insurance to assist with the costs of repairing or replacing damaged terminals, making it a valuable consideration, especially for those in the hospitality industry.
Compliance upgrades
Make sure you understand how your provider manages compliance upgrades. For example, in most cases, Eftpos NZ can upgrade our customer’s payment software remotely well before the sunset date - meaning there is no impact on trading at all. If an EFTPOS terminal needs to be upgraded to remain compliant, we proactively upgrade the device for free.
Verifone Android devices are compliant until 2029 and come in a wide range of options - from grab-and-go portable solutions to unattended kiosk devices. Enjoy fast charging and long battery life, enhanced reporting, email receipts, dynamic connectivity, contactless surcharging, enhanced refunds, seamless integration with over 700 POS systems, and a host of other benefits and features.
Upgrade to Android EFTPOS with Eftpos NZ today. Get a quote now!
Check Your Terminal
Check the Device Register on the Payments NZ website here, or download our handy checklist which lists all PCI 3.x EFTPOS terminals registered in New Zealand below.
Still have questions? See our FAQs about the 2026 EFTPOS Upgrade here
Comments