Being born in New Zealand does not always mean automatic New Zealand citizenship. The key date is 1 January 2006.
Born before 1 January 2006
Govt.nz says a person born in New Zealand before 1 January 2006 is generally a New Zealand citizen by birth, subject to limited exceptions such as certain diplomatic situations.
Born on or after 1 January 2006
For a child born in New Zealand on or after 1 January 2006, at least one parent must have been a New Zealand citizen or have had a status that entitled them to reside in New Zealand indefinitely at the time of the child's birth.
Why “resident” and “temporary visa” matter
A temporary work, visitor or student visa is not the same as an entitlement to reside indefinitely. If you are uncertain about a child's status, use the official “Check if you are a citizen” service rather than assuming from the place of birth alone.
If the child is not already a citizen by birth
Citizenship by grant may still be available later if the child meets the applicable requirements. Children have different grant requirements from adults, including special rules based on age and a parent's citizenship status.
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