Import

Our economy relies on imported goods and commercial tourism from all corners of the globe.

Find out about the documentation, clearances and requirements you need when entering New Zealand, and how to make your entry as smooth as possible.

Start importing

Find out what you need to do to get Customs clearance for your imported items.

Import Prohibited and restricted imports

Some items are prohibited and can't be imported into New Zealand, and some require approval to import.

Import animals

Animals being imported into New Zealand need to be cleared through Customs first.

Tobacco

Importing or bringing tobacco into New Zealand.

Commercial vessels

This guidance covers the requirements for commercial vessels and cruise ships arriving and departing New Zealand.

Cruise ship operators

This guidance covers the requirements for cruise ship operators arriving and departing New Zealand.

Valuation for import

You must declare a Customs value on anything you import into New Zealand.

Lodge your import entry

Importers send electronic declarations covering the details of imports before we release their goods.

Preferential tariff duty rates

Goods produced or manufactured in certain countries may qualify for preferential tariff duty rates.

Customs rulings

A Customs ruling provides greater certainty about the requirements for import of specific items.

Customs rates of exchange

Customs exchange rates for all countries and economic groups.

Import payments

Information on how to pay your duties and other charges.

MyCustoms Account

Find out how MyCustoms Account can help you keep track of your deferred payment account transactions.

Deferred accounts for importers

Deferred payment schemes allow you to defer payment of Customs charges.

Deferred accounts for brokers

Customs brokers can apply to open a deferred credit account.

Refunds and drawbacks

Under specific circumstances Customs may approve a refund or a drawback of duty and/or GST paid on goods imported into New Zealand, or on excisable goods manufactured in New Zealand.

Split shipments

Split shipment is a provision that may allow multiple shipments to be entered under the tariff classification that would apply if the goods had been imported as a single shipment.

Import forms and documents

View a list of all Import forms and documents.