Getting to New Zealand

Travel and the Border (COVID impacts). For advice on international travel, quarantine-free travel, what happens when you arrive in New Zealand, and how to safely travel within New Zealand visit https://covid19.govt.nz/travel-and-the-border/

Before travelling to a country, you need to know the basic facts. New Zealand is a small country, similar in size to Great Britain or Japan. With a population of just over 4 million people it is gloriously uncrowded. Learn more about New Zealand here www.newzealand.com/int/facts.

 

Immigration Information

Visitor Visa (Non-Australian and Non-Visa waiver countries):

All visitors will need to apply for a visa and provide evidence of your ability to meet the criteria for entry. Applications can take up to 3 months to process so please ensure you apply for your visa well in advance of your travel. If you are transiting via another country, please ensure you check their visa requirements as you may require additional visas.

New Zealand Immigration visa information

Visa waiver countries (less than 3 month stay):

If you are a citizen of a country which has a visa waiver agreement with New Zealand and meet the criteria below, you do not need a visa but do need an NZeTA to enter New Zealand:

• Hold a valid ticket from New Zealand to a country where you have the right of entry
• Have sufficient money to support yourself during your stay in New Zealand
• Hold a passport valid for 3 months beyond the date you intend leaving New Zealand
• Remain in New Zealand only for the time granted on your arrival

View more information about the visa waiver eligibility.

You will need to apply online for an NZeTA prior to travelling. Please allow up to 72 hours for your NZeTA to be processed. Apply for your NZeTA here.

View more information about the NZeTA.

If you are transiting via another country, please ensure you check their visa requirements as you may require additional visas.

Note: Only use the NZ Immigration website to apply for your NZeTA. There are unscrupulous people charging more than is required when applying through third party websites. 

 

Visa waiver countries (longer than 3 month stay):

If you intend to stay in New Zealand for longer than three months, you will need to apply for a visitor visa at least 30 days before travelling. Visa applications can be made online. 

New Zealand Immigration visa information

Australian Citizens:

Australian citizens do not need a visa or NZeTA to visit New Zealand.

 

Biosecurity

In order to protect New Zealand and its environment, certain items are not allowed to be brought into the country, have restrictions for entry, or must be declared if they are deemed to present a biosecurity risk. These include food, plants, animal products and outdoor recreational equipment. You may risk a fine if you fail to comply.

For more information, visit: www.mpi.govt.nz/travel-and-recreation/arriving-in-new-zealand/items-to-declare.