Entering New Zealand FAQs
Individuals not declaring quarantine goods can be fined up to $100,000 and/or face up to 5 years in jail.
Please remember your declaration form is a legal document. Any false declarations can lead to prosecutions resulting in a heavy fine or imprisonment - or both.
If you have any prohibited or restricted items you no longer wish to keep, put them in the amnesty bins we've provided as you walk through the arrivals area of the airport. If you are bringing restricted items into New Zealand, choose the RED way out and give your declaration form to the MAFBNZ Passenger Clearance officer who will be there to help you. Any restricted goods will be checked, and if necessary, you'll be given the option of having them treated. It's helpful if you can pack any restricted items and certificates separate from the rest of your luggage, as this can shorten your wait considerably.
Ballast water is considered a significant way exotic marine organisms can be introduced to New Zealand waters. If you are the master of a vessel intending to travel to New Zealand, click here for information relating to ballast water requirements.
All steps involved in your vessel's arrival are outlined here.
These days you will rarely see MAF Biosecurity Clearance Officers spraying arriving aircraft before the passengers and crew disembark.
All wood products imported into New Zealand will be inspected on arrival in New Zealand for pests, evidence of pest infestation, or for unwanted organic contamination such as soil or bark.
Wood found to be contaminated with pests or soil or bark will need to be treated (if you want the items to enter New Zealand), re-shipped (sent back) or destroyed (incinerated). The treatment will depend on the contaminant found (e.g. fumigation for insects or bark, heat treatment for fungi).
Fumigation is mandatory for products made from or containing cane or bamboo.
Quarantine Officers, assisted by an X-ray machine and detector dog, inspect all parcels entering New Zealand at the International Mail Centre. There are regular interceptions of risk goods, which include fresh produce, seeds, plants and straw items. Recipients of restricted items are given the option of having goods treated and returned to them at their expense.
New Zealand is now party to a world-wide agreement designed to prevent trade in endangered, threatened or exploited species. It covers items such as ivory, turtle shell artefacts, clam shells, coral and products made from snakeskin or whalebone. Plants, animals or products covered by the agreement can no longer be brought into New Zealand, except with a special permit issued by the Department of Conservation.
Items which could pose a risk include meat and meat products, eggs and egg products, dairy products, animal products such as wool, hides, hunting trophies, soil, seeds and plants, second-hand saddlery, animal remedies, some Chinese medicines, used vehicles, farm machinery and contaminated containers.