Travel info

What you can bring into New Zealand

New Zealand runs some of the strictest biosecurity in the world to protect its farms and native species. The rule is simple: if in doubt, declare it. This page covers what you must declare, what is outright banned, and the fines for getting it wrong, so the airport runs smoothly.

Arrival declaration

Complete the free New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD). Declare all food, plant and animal products and used outdoor equipment; clean boots, tents and gear before packing. Honey and other foods depend on origin, ingredients and treatment: use MPI’s item checker, rather than assuming every honey product is prohibited. A declaration lets an officer assess an item; it does not guarantee clearance. Failure to declare a risk item can incur a NZ$400 infringement fine, with more serious penalties possible.

Official information · Checked 16 October 2026

NZTD · MPI

Before packing

Pack food and outdoor gear where you can show them. Clean all soil and seeds from footwear, tent pegs and equipment. Use MPI’s checker for each product and origin; sealed packaging does not guarantee permission. Dispose of unwanted risk items in the provided bins before inspection. Medicines have separate Customs and health rules: check the official requirements for your particular medicine and keep original packaging and documentation. Allow time for inspection before a connecting flight.

Customs allowances

Eligible travellers aged 17+ may bring 4.5 litres of wine or beer plus 3 bottles or containers of spirits, each no more than 1.125 litres; the tobacco allowance is 50 cigarettes or 50 g of tobacco products, or a mixture weighing no more than 50 g. Cash of NZ$10,000 or more (foreign-currency equivalent included) requires a Border Cash Report; carrying it is not itself prohibited.

Official information · Checked 16 October 2026

Border Cash Report

Published:
Updated:
Share

Editorial responsibility: NarodNZ. We maintain this independent guide and welcome corrections. Send a correction