Skip to main content

What you can and cannot bring with you into New Zealand

There are biosecurity and customs rules about what you can and cannot bring into New Zealand.

What you cannot bring into New Zealand (NZ)

Some items are prohibited — you’re not allowed to bring them into NZ. There are also items that are restricted and you must have approval to bring these into NZ.

Check if you can bring or send an item to NZ — Ministry for Primary Industries

Prohibited and restricted items — New Zealand Customs Service

What you must declare

When you arrive in NZ you need to answer questions about your trip and what you’re bringing into the country.

If you do not declare restricted or prohibited items or you make a false or incorrect declaration, you could get an instant fine.

On your arrival — New Zealand Customs Service

Tobacco and alcohol

There are limits on how much tobacco and alcohol you can bring into NZ without paying goods and services tax (GST) and Customs duty.

If you bring in more than your allowance, you’ll have to pay GST, Customs duty and a fee.

Tobacco and alcohol limits — New Zealand Customs Service

Medicines

There are restrictions and rules for bringing prescription medicines and controlled drugs into NZ.

Medicines — New Zealand Customs Service

Vehicles, boats or planes

If you’re planning to bring vehicles, boats or planes into NZ, you’ll need to meet the criteria for a tariff concession. If you do not have a concession, you’ll have to pay GST and possibly Customs duty.

Vehicles, Vessels and Aircraft — New Zealand Customs Service

Once NZ Customs have cleared your motor vehicle, a Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) approved agent must certify your vehicle for use on NZ roads.

If you’re bringing in a light vehicle, you’ll also need to hold a Clean Car Standard CO2 account.

Importing a vehicle — Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency

Who to contact for more help

If you need more help or have questions about the information or services on this page, contact the following agency.

Utility links and page information

Was this page helpful?
Thanks, do you want to tell us more?

Do not enter personal information. All fields are optional.

Last updated