Arrival Process in New Zealand: Entry Requirements, Customs & Biosecurity Guide

Passport Validity

Sample Image of the New Zealand ETA

Check passport validity:Confirm that your passport stays valid for at least 3 months after the date you intend to leave New Zealand, or longer if required by your nationality or airline.
Resident visa holders:If you hold a New Zealand resident visa, ensure your passport is valid for re-entry into New Zealand.

New Zealand ETA Requirements

Check your nationality

Find out whether you need a visa or a New Zealand ETA.

Confirm visa waiver eligibility

If you hold a passport from a visa waiver country, you may need an NZ ETA instead of a visa.

Select your travel type

Choose the correct authorisation based on whether you are travelling as a visitor, transit passenger, or cruise passenger.

When Is a New Zealand ETA Not Required?

You do not need an NZ ETA if you:

Already have a valid New Zealand visa that matches the purpose of your visit.
Are an Australian citizen travelling on an Australian passport or a New Zealand citizen travelling on a New Zealand passport.
Are a New Zealand citizen travelling on a foreign passport with a New Zealand citizen endorsement.

New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD)

All travellers entering New Zealand must submit the NZTD before travel.

Complete the New Zealand Traveller Declaration Form:
Submit the New Zealand Traveller Declaration online before starting your journey.
Provide Accurate Details:
Fill in your personal, travel, and health-related information exactly as requested.

Biosecurity Requirements

New Zealand has strict biosecurity rules to protect its environment and agriculture. Follow these requirements when entering the country.

Requirement	What to Do
Declare risk items	Declare all food, plant materials, animal products, and outdoor equipment. If you're unsure whether an item must be declared, declare it.
Check before packing	Review New Zealand's biosecurity rules before you travel and avoid packing prohibited items.
Cooperate with inspections	If selected for inspection, present any declared items and follow instructions from biosecurity officers.

Customs Declaration

Customs personnel may inspect your baggage and ask questions about your items.

Follow Customs Procedures:

Declare all goods as required by New Zealand’s customs regulations.
Present supporting documents if requested by customs officials.
Answer questions about the nature and value of the items you are carrying.

Arrival Procedures

Self Check In Kiosks At Airport Terminal

Follow the Step-by-Step Entry Procedure:

Complete passport control and screening processes after landing.
Proceed through E-Gates if eligible for automated entry.
Comply with biosecurity screening requirements to protect the environment. Finalise customs declarations as per the legal entry process.

E-Gates:

Use e-gates if you hold a passport eligible for automated entry.
Scan your passport and follow the on-screen instructions.
Allow the gate to capture your facial image for identity verification.
Proceed through once the system confirms your details.

Arrange Airport Transportation:

Organise your transfer from the airport before arrival.
Choose from public transport, taxis, or authorised ride-sharing services.
Follow airport signage to reach designated pick-up points.

Confirm Accommodation Booking:

Ensure your accommodation is pre-booked and confirmed.
Keep proof of your booking in case it is requested during check-in or inspections.
Provide your lodging details when required.

Complete Initial Settling Tasks:

Handle any local formalities, such as registration if required.
Obtain a local E-SIM card.
Locate essential services nearby, including banks, shops, and health services.

Frequently Asked Questions?

You must comply. Customs officers may ask questions, inspect baggage, and request supporting documents related to your goods.

Yes. Most airlines flying to New Zealand accept mobile boarding passes. However, you should also carry a printed copy of your travel documents in case of technical issues.

Yes. Travellers carrying prescription medication or medical devices must declare them and carry a doctor’s note or prescription. Some medications may be subject to biosecurity or customs checks.

If you're unsure whether an item is allowed, declare it on your Passenger Arrival Card. Border officials will assess the item. Declaring protects you from fines, while failing to declare may result in penalties.

Content Disclaimer: Information is current as of October 2026. Please reconfirm entry rules and travel conditions with your airline or the relevant authority before departure.

Arrival Process in New Zealand

Meet Pre-Arrival Requirements