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 that you can bring your items in before your trip to NZ.

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