Anyone born in New Zealand before 1 January 2006 is a New Zealand citizen by birth (except children of foreign diplomats). People who hold Cook Islands, Tokelau and Niue citizenship are New Zealand citizens by birth and are eligible for New Zealand passports.

Children born in New Zealand on or after 1 January 2006 are New Zealand citizens by birth if at least one parent was a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, an Australian citizen or permanent resident, or a citizen or permanent resident of the Cook Islands, Tokelau or Niue.

People born overseas to people who are New Zealand citizens by birth can apply to be recognised as New Zealand citizens by descent.