It was established by the Sharebrokers Amendment Act 1981 as the successor to the Stock Exchange Association of New Zealand. The purpose of the Exchange is to provide and operate an efficient market for the raising of capital for listed companies and the trading of securities, including shares and fixed interest securities such as bonds and Government stock. It is also responsible for maintaining professional standards among its members and among listed companies. The Exchange is funded from fees paid by its members, listed companies and charges for information services.
Trading takes place on screens which are part of a national computer system.