Understanding the process

There are two stages to online authentication: first you register and then you use your registered credentials (username and password) to identify yourself online. In this section we'll show you how the process works, but first here are some examples of authentication that may already be familiar to you.

Some everyday examples

There is nothing new about having to prove your identity in order to access information or services.

Joining a library

In order to borrow books or other material from your local library you usually require a library card. In some areas, your library card can give you access to online library services, such as reserving books.

When applying for a library card, you usually have to fill out a form and supply the librarian with some independent evidence of your address details. For example, this may mean showing a bank statement or other official letter with your address on it. This confirms that you live in the area and are entitled to use the library's services.

The library card becomes your credentials so you don't have to provide the same evidence each time you want to borrow a book.

Getting married

In order to get married, you first must apply for a marriage licence. This means filling out the appropriate form from a Births, Deaths and Marriages Registry Office (or downloading it over the Internet). The form requires you to fill out personal details about you, and your mother and your father, in order to check your identity.

You cannot complete the form online, as either the bride or the groom must complete a statutory declaration (part of the form) that you are able to get married. The statutory declaration must be made in person in the presence of a Registrar of Marriages.

Internet (online) banking

Increasing numbers of New Zealander are using the Internet for online banking. It is a very convenient process, allowing you to manage your money when you want to. In order for you to carry out online banking, you must first talk to your bank about obtaining access to your bank accounts and services over the Internet. Most banks require you to prove your identity - by supplying personal information and your account details.

Some banks, once they are sure of your identity, provide you with a Customer ID number and a temporary password to use once to login for services at the bank's website. This information may be posted to your home address. You are prompted to choose your own password for future use once you have successfully logged into the bank's secure website.

Applying for a passport

Every New Zealand citizen is entitled to apply for a New Zealand passport. Passports are valuable items, and therefore lots of evidence must be provided to ensure you are who you say you are.

A passport application requires filling in a form with a lot of personal information. Your application has to include an original copy of your birth certificate or citizenship certificate as proof of your New Zealand citizenship (ie entitlement to a passport). The application forms require a person who knows you (your "witness") to fill out and sign a section confirming your identity. The witness also has to sign your photo as extra proof of your identity.

These measures all help to authenticate your application.