FAQs related to Your Mail
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.
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. This is because most airlines now either treat their aircraft with a residual insecticide or undertake spraying in-flight. Both methods are approved by MAF and the World Health Organisation (WHO).
For more information refer to:
