Introduction to Forestry

Wood products imported for personal use or accompanied by passengers will be inspected on arrival in New Zealand for evidence of pest infestation. Pests include insects such as borers or caterpillars, or fungi. Bark, either loose or on wood products, and pinecones are also prohibited unless they are painted or lacquered in a way that would stop pests escaping from within.

Some commercial shipments of wood products must be treated before entering New Zealand. A certificate confirming the type and method of treatment used must accompany goods treated overseas. All wood products will be inspected on arrival in New Zealand either for evidence of pest infestation or, if treated before arrival, to confirm the treatment was effective.

Goods must also be subject to either a pest and import risk analysis. More measures are spelt out in various import health standards within the  Non-propagable forest products or the Propagable forest products sections.

To avoid problems on arrival in New Zealand, people or companies importing wood items should make sure the items are clean and free of any pests before they are sent to New Zealand. Any wooden items found to be infested with pests will be treated, reshipped or destroyed.

To import viable seed or nursery stock of forestry species see seed for sowing, seed for processing or nursery stock.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Importing - Wood

Importing - Wood Packaging