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    • New Zealand
    Biosecurity and Customs

    New Zealand has very strict 
biosecurity procedures to protect 
our beautiful land

    One thing that strikes first time travellers to New Zealand is how strict our rules are when arriving in New Zealand. This is due to the fact that we have a rich endemic flora and fauna which we are protecting very closely. A rogue seed or bug in your suitcase could have dramatic consequences for the survival of certain species but also on our agricultural industry.

    Bringing food, wooden items, or plants is very strictly regulated and everything must be declared on arrival if you want to avoid a hefty fine.

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    Can I bring my personal items when I migrate to New Zealand?

    Yes of course, but be aware that your household goods and personal items will be inspected closely at the border to identify any biosecurity risk. Pests and diseases can be brought unintentionally in personal and household effects and risk items will be inspected, and either cleared, treated (heat or fumigation), reshipped, or destroyed. The government agency responsible for this is our Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI).

    MPI is responsible for protecting the natural resources, plants, animals and people of New Zealand from the introduction of pests and diseases.

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    Guidance

    See the Ministry

    See the Ministry of Primary Industries’ brochure on importing goods.

    Items that you must declare on arrival include:

    Fresh & Dried

    Fresh or dried fruit, vegetables, mushrooms or fungi.

    Animal Protein

    Any meat, fish, shellfish or poultry.

    Dairy & Eggs

    Ingredients used in cooking, all milk products, cheese, eggs or egg products, and milk-based baby foods.

    Hunting Items

    Hunting trophies or stuffed animals.

    Herbal & Remedies

    Traditional/herbal medicines, health supplements and homeopathic remedies containing animal or plant products.

    Dried Arrangements

    Dried flower arrangements or Christmas decorations made from plant material.

    Wooden Goods

    Items made from wood.

    Seed-Filled Items

    Items stuffed with seeds or straw.

    Natural Fibres

    Items made from bamboo, cane, coconut or straw.

    Animal Materials

    Items containing hair, fur, unprocessed wool, skin, feathers or bone.

    Outdoor Equipment

    Outdoor, camping, sports equipment, hiking boots.

    Animal Care Gear

    Animal grooming and veterinary equipment.

    Beekeeping Gear

    Beekeeping equipment.

    Animal Accessories

    Saddles, bridles, bird cages and pet beds.

    Garden Tools

    Gardening equipment.

    Furniture

    Outdoor furniture.
    customs Guidance

    What about my car and other machinery?

    If you hold a valid visa valid for at least 12 months, you should not have to pay any customs duty on
    your baggage and effects, including ships, aircraft, motor vehicles, and household effects.

    You must have owned and used the goods before coming to New Zealand

    They must be for your own personal use and not intended for gift or sales

    These items are not eligible for concession either:

    Restricted Cars

    Cars, unless you are a returning resident or permanently residing with legal authority.

    New Goods

    New and unused items.

    Bikes & Scooters

    Scooters and motorbikes.

    Boats

    Boats of any type.

    Aircraft

    Small aircraft or personal planes.

    Commercial Goods

    Commercial or business-related items.

    Other Vehicles

    Other types of motor vehicles or craft.

    University of Waikato disclaimer

    I acknowledge that the University of Waikato is not, and will not be, liable for any costs, losses, damages, or liability incurred by me or any other party in connection with the services provided by New Zealand Shores limited.

    Furthermore, the University of Waikato makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy of information and or services provided by New Zealand Shores Limited.