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How to Sell Your Gold in New Zealand

Found some colour? Here's where to cash in — and how to get the best price.

Paystreak Team2026-06-20Updated 2026-01-086 min read

Reality Check

Recreational fossicking rarely yields significant gold. A good day might produce 0.5-2 grams (worth $40-$160 at current prices). This guide is for when you do strike it rich — or just want to cash in your accumulated finds.

Understanding Gold Pricing

Gold is priced by the troy ounce (31.1 grams). The "spot price" fluctuates constantly based on global markets. As of writing, gold is around $4,200 NZD per ounce.

Buyers typically pay 85-95% of spot for raw gold, depending on purity and quantity. Nuggets and specimens with interesting shapes can fetch premiums from collectors.

Where to Sell

MyGold

Refiner

Auckland (mail-in nationwide)

Pros

  • ✓ Pays spot price minus small margin
  • ✓ Professional assay
  • ✓ Fast payment

Cons

  • • Minimum quantities apply
  • • Need to mail gold
Visit Website

NZ Gold Merchants

Dealer

Multiple locations

Pros

  • ✓ Walk-in service
  • ✓ Immediate payment
  • ✓ Buys small quantities

Cons

  • • Lower prices than refiners
  • • Varies by location
Visit Website

Trade Me

Marketplace

Online

Pros

  • ✓ Collectors pay premiums for specimens
  • ✓ Set your own price
  • ✓ Large audience

Cons

  • • Fees apply
  • • Slower sale
  • • Trust issues
Visit Website

Local Jewellers

Retail

Nationwide

Pros

  • ✓ No shipping
  • ✓ Personal relationship
  • ✓ May buy rough gold

Cons

  • • Highly variable prices
  • • Many won't buy raw gold

Tips for Getting the Best Price

  1. 1
    Clean Your Gold

    Remove black sand and debris. Clean gold looks more impressive and is easier to weigh accurately.

  2. 2
    Know the Spot Price

    Check the current XAU/NZD rate before selling. Don't accept more than 15% below spot without good reason.

  3. 3
    Get Multiple Quotes

    Email photos and estimated weight to 2-3 buyers. Prices vary.

  4. 4
    Consider Collectors for Specimens

    A nice nugget with quartz attached can sell for 2-3x melt value to collectors.

Check Field Data First

Use Paystreak's prospecting database before spending fuel, time, or gear budget on a trip.

Open Database →

Maps are planning tools only. Verify access and permits locally before fieldwork.

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