Prohibited and restricted items

Some items are prohibited — you’re not allowed to bring them into NZ.

Prohibited and restricted items — New Zealand Customs Service

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

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

Alcohol and tobacco

There are limits on how much alcohol and tobacco 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.

Alcohol and tobacco 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

Pets

To bring pets you need to meet specific requirements before they can enter New Zealand. Visit the Ministry of Primary industries to find out what's involved.

Bringing cats and dogs to NZ — Ministry for Primary Industries

Bringing pets to NZ (other than cats and dogs) — Ministry for Primary Industries

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 goods and services tax (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.

Importing a vehicle — Waka Kotahi | NZ Transport Agency