Privacy Statement
Last updated:01/09/2025
Who we are
“The Finance Company” (“we”, “us”, “our”) helps customers arrange vehicle and other consumer finance by working with a panel of New Zealand lenders. This statement explains how we collect, use, store, share and protect personal information when you interact with us.
Contact:
The Finance Company
Email: info@thefinancecompany.co.nz
Phone: 0800446622
The information we collect
- Identity & contact — name, DOB, addresses, email, phone, driver licence / passport.
- Financial & application — income, expenses, employment, bank statements, loan purpose, assets, liabilities, insurance details.
- Credit information — your credit report and credit score, repayment history and credit account details from NZ credit reporters (Centrix, Equifax, illion).
- Verification & compliance — AML/CFT checks, ID copies, and required compliance records.
- Website/analytics — IP address, device data, cookies/analytics.
- Communications & preferences — your messages, call notes, and marketing opt-ins/outs.
Why we collect and how we use your information
We use personal information to:
- Assess your application and arrange finance;
- Verify identity and meet AML/CFT and responsible lending obligations;
- Manage our customer relationship and handle complaints;
- Prevent fraud, ensure security and run audits;
- Send service updates and (if you consent) marketing communications.
Credit checks and authorisation
By applying, you authorise us to obtain your credit report(s) and share relevant application details with lenders and service providers, consistent with the Credit Reporting Privacy Code 2020. You may access and correct your credit report by contacting the credit reporter directly.
Who we share information with
We share information with:
- Lenders on our panel;
- Credit reporters (Centrix, Equifax, illion);
- Verification and IT/cloud service providers;
- Auditors, insurers, and regulators where legally required;
- Debt collection agencies, where relevant.
Overseas disclosure
Some trusted service providers may be overseas. We ensure they provide comparable safeguards to NZ law or we obtain your consent, consistent with the Privacy Act 2020.
Marketing communications
We will not send you marketing without consent. All electronic messages include an unsubscribe option which we action within 5 working days.
How we keep information secure
We use encryption, access controls, staff training, vendor due-diligence, and secure disposal to safeguard personal information.
How long we keep information
We retain information only as long as needed:
- AML/CFT records: at least 5 years after the relationship ends;
- Credit application records: up to 7 years;
- Unsuccessful applications: typically deleted within 24 months unless legally required longer.
Your rights
You may request access to and correction of your personal information at any time. Contact us at info@thefinancecompany.co.nz
Cookies and website analytics
Our website may use cookies and analytics. You can adjust browser settings, but some features may not work correctly if you block cookies.
Notifiable privacy breaches
If a breach causes or is likely to cause serious harm, we will notify affected individuals and the Office of the Privacy Commissioner as soon as practicable.
Complaints
Contact us if you are concerned. If unresolved, you may complain to the Office of the Privacy Commissioner at privacy.org.nz.
Changes to this statement
We may update this statement from time to time. The latest version will be available on our website.