What to Declare at Customs New Zealand
Traveling to New Zealand means that you will likely have to pass through customs for processing. Depending on the items you’re bringing into the country, you may need to declare them during passport control. In order to ensure a smooth entry to New Zealand, it’s important to have an understanding of what you need to do to be compliant.
What is Required at New Zealand Customs?
Be Prepared to Answer Questions
New Zealand customs officers may ask you questions to determine the reasons for your visit and if you’re seeking residency. Have your passport, temporary visa (if applicable), and a completed New Zealand Passenger Arrival Card ready to present.
Carry All Relevant Douments
You may also be asked to present proof of your plans for your stay. This could be a hotel reservation, a return ticket, or itinerary. The purpose of this is to verify your intentions to leave New Zealand before the end of the maximum stay allowed by your visa.
Declare Certain Food Items
Food items can pose a risk to the environment and indigenous wildlife of New Zealand, so customs may ask you to declare any food items or beverages you’re bringing in. This includes any goods made with animal products such as milk, cheese, chocolate, etc. Any food items that are prohibited from entering the country must be discarded.
Medication Restrictions
Know the Medication Restrictions
Some medications may not be allowed in New Zealand. Custom agents will ask if you’re bringing any medications and may ask you to provide a doctor’s prescription. If any of your medications are branded as an anabolic steroid, you’ll need to have a doctor’s prescription as well as a copy of your medical records.
Declare Medication
You may be required to declare any medications you have on you. If necessary, separate medication from other luggage items and make sure you have a receipt outlining all of the medications in your possession. It’s important to be forthcoming and honest when providing information to the customs officer. Informing the officer of all items required for your health can save the hassle of further questioning.
Gift Restrictions
Note the Gift Restrictions
Gifts are a great way to show hospitality and appreciation but they may be restricted by New Zealand customs. Any gifts you’re bringing into the country must be able to pass screening during the customs process. If the gift is made with animal products such as fur, it can be confiscated. If the gift contains any food items, these may need to be declared so they can be screened for biosecurity.
Gift Tax Exemption Limit
Any gifts you receive that are valued over NZ$1,000 must be declared and tax may be applicable. This also applies to gifts that are given to you to take to another country.
Liquids and Powders Restrictions
Liquid Restrictions
Liquids may be restricted for travel into New Zealand. Excess liquids must be disposed of if they’re over the limit or held for assessment. Any liquid containers should be placed within resealable plastic bags and labeled clearly.
Powder Restrictions
Powders may be restricted for safety reasons. As with liquids, any containers should be clearly labeled and placed within resealable bags. Certain household items, such as talcum powder may be prohibited and must be disposed of, unless you have a doctor’s prescription.
Restricted Species Restrictions
Research Prior to Arrival
Certain species are restricted and may not be allowed into New Zealand or through customs. Prior to travel, research any items that may be restricted, such as animal specimens or eggs. Documents demonstrating the legal ownership and transport of the item will likely be necessary in order for them to be allowed into the country. The additional documentation should also state that the item does not, or is unlikely to, pose a biosecurity risk to New Zealand.
Currency Restrictions
Be Aware of Currency Restrictions
If you’re bringing over NZ$10,000 into New Zealand, you will need to declare it at customs. This includes cash, traveler’s checks, and other negotiable instruments. This rule applies to all foreign currency, New Zealand dollars, and any kind of monetary instrument including gold or silver coins.
Have Documentation Ready
If you’re carrying over NZ$10,000, you’ll need to provide supporting documentation such as a values statement and the original transaction statements. The values statement documents where the money originated and the purpose for bringing it into the country, such as for personal use or investment.
Environmental Restrictions
Be Aware of Environmental Threats
New Zealand has environmental laws and regulations that protect the natural environment from foreign species and pests. When importing or exporting items, you must ensure that they do not pose a biosecurity risk to New Zealand, such as the potential for impairment to the country’s agricultural industries.
Declare Items That Pose a Risk
Some items that may pose a risk include: plants, fruits, seeds, and animals. When questioned, make sure to be honest about these items. Customs may take X-rays or biosecurity inspections to ensure that your items do not contain any potentially harmful species.
Be Honest and Compliant
In order to ensure a smooth process at customs, it’s important to be honest and compliant when providing information. Declare any items that may pose a risk or need to be registered, provide documentation for large sums of money, and have any necessary Visa or permit documentation readily available.
