FAQs related to Containers and Cargo

What if the Quarantine Declaration is not compliant, or my supplier doesn't know the answer to a question or leaves it blank?

If the Quarantine Declaration is not compliant (see Question 1), or if a question of the Quarantine Declaration has been answered "don’t know" or left blank, you should follow the steps in Question 4 (import entry) or 5 (ECI report) for non-compliant Quarantine Declarations.

How do I know if the Quarantine Declaration (QD) I have received is compliant with MAF's requirements?

The Quarantine Declaration should contain the information shown on the sample quarantine declaration in the import health standard for sea containers (go to www.biosecurity.govt.nz/regs/cont-carg to obtain a copy of the standard).

The Quarantine Declaration must:

  • Specify the container numbers.
    • Each declaration may be for one or multiple sea containers.
    • A list of containers covered by the QD may be on an attachment. There must be some linkage between this list and the front page containing the questions. (i.e. Pages 1 of 2 and 2 of 2 or commonly numbered documents.)
  • Answer all of the questions shown on the sample quarantine declaration (in the standard). The questions do not have to be in the same sequence as they appear on the sample.
  • Conclude with the name and signature of the person making the declaration.
    • Stamped or electronic signatures are acceptable.
  • Be dated.

The following are not compulsory but are desirable:

The Quarantine Declaration should:

  • Be on supplier letterhead paper (or stamped with a company seal).
  • Specify a vessel and voyage number (if known by the declarant).
  • Show the designation of the person signing.

Please note:

  • Translations of the quarantine declaration in 19 different languages are also available on the website listed above. Please note that these forms are displayed for information purposes only and the English version must be presented prior any container entering into New Zealand.
  • Australian "Packing Declaration" certificates are not accepted in lieu of the New Zealand Quarantine declaration.
Quarantine Declaration
Where can I find more information?

If you have any further questions on the new MAF Biosecurity New Zealand fees, contact:

Cyril Evans
MAFBNZ Clearance Service
Ph: 04 894 4206
evansc@maf.govt.nz

What are the hours of operation for my local MAF office?

MAF offices are open during standard working hours (8 am - 5 pm, Monday - Friday, excluding public holidays) for BACC processing.

What do I have to do to receive my final clearance BACC for my container(s)?

If you are an Accredited Person and have not completed a container log sheet, you should do so. 

Alternatively, if you can not access the website, you may fax a manual log sheet to MAF at 09 300 3205.

When will I receive my BACC to remove my container(s) from the wharf?

If you have received a message from Customs saying "MAF CLEARANCE GIVEN TO MOVE FROM WHARF TO AN ATF", you do not require a BACC to remove your container from the wharf. See question 6 for more details.

If you have received a different message from Customs and have not yet sent MAF an Application for a BACC, you should complete this application, including relevant documentation, and submit it to your local MAF office. You can fax the application and documentation to the office, or bring it to MAF in person during weekday office hours.

If you have sent MAF an Application for a BACC, you should either receive a BACC by email from MAF within 8 working hours, or a phone call from MAF requesting more information. If you have not heard from MAF within 8 working hours after submitting your application, please phone the MAF office to which you faxed your application.

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