All visitors to New Zealand need a passport which must be valid for at least 3 months beyond
the time you intend to stay.
On arrival, all British citizens are issued with a permit to stay for up to six months. Citizens of most
other European countries, Southeast Asian nations, Japan, the USA and Canada are granted a three month permit.
Australian citizens and permanent residents can stay indefinitely provided they
have no criminal record.
Other nationalities need to obtain a Visitor's Visa in advance
from a New Zealand embassy. It will cost around NZ$200 and is normally valid for 3 months. Visas are issued by the
New Zealand Immigration Service.
For travellers, the Working Holiday Visa is the best way to supplement your travels.
Citizens of the UK, Ireland, Canada, Chile, Denmark, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy,
Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Netherlands and Sweden,
aged 18 to 30, can apply for a 12-month visa. It is only issued to those seeking a genuine working holiday, not for permanent work
and often require proof of onward travel and sufficient funds. Citizens of the US can consider applying for a work permit through
and organization such as BUNAC or CIEE.
There are certain prohibited imports to New Zealand as they have a delicate
balance of flora and fauna and foreign bodies can cause destruction when they are introduced to the environment. If you disregard the rules, you could be fined
NZ$200 or higher on the spot. Drug paraphernalia, such as pipes and bongs, as well as any type of weapon is prohibited. This is no joking matter, they bring dogs out and sniff everyone. Just another reason not
to smuggle drugs!!
The following must be declared at customs and will either be treated or confiscated: food, plants or parts of plants (dead or alive),
animals (dead or alive), equipment used with animals, camping gear, golf clubs, used bicycles, biological specimens and footwear
(specifically hiking boots).
The duty free allowance is 200 cigarettes or 250 grams of tobacco or 50 cigars; 4.5 litres of wine or beer, plus one bottle
of not more than 1125ml of spirits.
There are export restrictions on wildlife, plant life, antiquities and works of art. If you are unsure, contact the nearest customs
office or check out their website, www.quarantine.govt.nz.
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