I am setting up Quickbooks Essentials in New Zealand and don't have the Quickbooks Payments option or add payment services. Is this available in NZ?

QuickBooks Payments is currently unavailable in New Zealand, Byron.
 

Alternatively, you can integrate a third-party app to enable payment processing in QuickBooks Online.  
 

Here's how:
 

1. Go to the Apps menu.
2. Select Find Apps.
3. Look for an app in the Search bar or you can Browse categories or industries related to payments.
    

If you want to notify your customers of their outstanding balances, you can check this resource for future reference: Send invoice reminders automatically or manually in QuickBooks Online.
 

Don't hesitate to leave a comment below if you need anything else.