What is a short code?
- A short code is a short string of digits that can be used to send and receive messages.
- These are typically used for marketing campaigns, but also for public-service systems.
- Short codes are configured on a provider-by-provider basis as the short code must be recognised by each provider.
- If an organisation wants to use a short code e.g. “3666” in New Zealand, then they would need to register that short code with each provider operating in New Zealand.
What is a short code used for?
- Sending and receiving text messages for two-factor authentication, marketing, charity, information, entertainment, etc.
- In New Zealand short codes are one way a business can send customer communications via SMS.
- Registered short codes protect consumers from unwanted SMS scams masquerading as legitimate companies operating in New Zealand.
Some short codes are used by trusted organisations for important communications:
- 2542 – from the TCF on behalf of telecommunication providers requesting customers to confirm a mobile number transfer. Replying to the text message is free of charge.
- 5101 – Electoral Commission: Official text messages from the Electoral Commission about the 2026 General Election may be sent from 5101.
- 7726 – Report scam or spam texts: If you receive a suspicious scam or spam text, you can forward the message free of charge to 7726 to report it to the Department of Internal Affairs.
Knowing these official short codes can help you recognise legitimate messages and know where to report suspicious ones.
Will I be charged for using a short code?
- Short codes are charged at different rates ranging from no charge up to several dollars. The same or different charges may apply for sending or receiving a message.
- Refer to your provider’s website to check price to send or receive a message from a particular short code.
NZ short code compliance and regulations
- The TCF Mobile Messaging Code encourages the responsible and compliant delivery of mobile messaging services to consumers.
- The Code sets out the rights and obligations for the advertising, promotion, and operation of all premium and non-premium mobile messaging services to promote informed, fair, and safe use of these services.
Tips for managing standard and premium TXT messages
To manage your Premium TXT services spend and avoid unexpected high charges, it is recommended that:
- Before providing your mobile number to anyone, always check what you are signing up to.
- Check if it is a subscription service, one-off purchase, or a service and/or marketing message.
- Read and confirm all terms & conditions and especially check the cost of the service and confirm how charges will apply. For content purchases, ensure that your phone is compatible.
- Keep track of how often you send and receive messages from these services.
- Keep a record of TXT messages being sent to opt-in and opt-out from subscription services as these contain important information related to the service.
- TXT the word “STOP” at any time to the short code to cancel, or stop receiving messages from a short code.
Bank short codes
ANZ
- 3371
- 3841
- 3842
- 3843
- 4047
- 4228
- 5070
- 5560
- 5814
- 5818
- 5818
- 8016
ASB
- 272
- 2265
- 2372
- 3192
- 4106
- 4218
- 4234
- 4272
- 4768
- 5555
BANK OF CHINA
- 328
BNZ
- 269
- 3146
- 3152
- 3170
- 3388
- 4022
- 5350
HEARTLAND BANK
- 4383
KIWIBANK
- 2039
- 3474
- 4209
- 4309
- 4336
- 4337
- 5494
SBS BANK
- 2258
TSB
- 3172
- 3173
- 4143
- 8970
WESTPAC
- 2468
- 2683
- 2684
- 2866
- 2931
- 3135
- 3139
- 3193
- 3635
- 4032
- 4056
- 4057
- 4058
- 4060
- 4578
- 4579
- 4580
- 4582