Landing in Aotearoa is an exciting moment, but the process of getting through the border can feel daunting.
New Zealand has some of the world’s strictest biosecurity laws to protect its unique environment, and making a simple mistake at the Auckland International Airport (or any other NZ entry point) can lead to delays, fines, or even being denied entry.
Whether you are making a move to New Zealand or visiting on vacation, ensure your first steps in New Zealand are smooth.
We sat down with our trusted immigration advisor, Charlotte from NZ Shores, to break down the most common mistakes and the crucial New Zealand entry questions you need to be prepared for.
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Mistake #1: Not Being Honest on Your Traveller Declaration
The Lowdown: Regardless of which city in New Zealand you are flying into, before you land, you must complete the New Zealand Traveller Declaration (now online).
This isn’t just a formality; it’s a legal document.
What You MUST Know:
Purpose of Travel: Be 100% truthful. If you’re entering as a visitor but are also considering looking for work or studying, you can and should state you are here to “Look, See, and Decide.”
This is a perfectly valid reason for entry and prevents future issues if you apply for a different visa later. Lying now can jeopardise future applications.
Duration of Stay: Declare your intended length of stay accurately. This aligns with the visa conditions you’re granted upon arrival.
Pro Tip from Charlotte: “If you declare that you’re coming on holiday, and then you get into New Zealand and decide… to apply for those visas, [Immigration NZ] may start asking questions… It’s really important that you do declare that from the outset.”
Mistake #2: Trying to Travel Without the Right Visa or NZeTA
The Lowdown: Don’t assume you can just board a plane. Many travellers need either a Visitor Visa or a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA).
What You MUST Know:
What is an NZeTA? It’s a quick, online pre-screening for travellers from visa-waiver countries. It costs around NZD $100 and is valid for two years.
Who Needs It? If you’re from the UK, USA, Canada, or most European countries, you likely need an NZeTA. Always check the official Immigration NZ website for the most current list.
The Consequence: Airlines can, and will, refuse to let you board your flight if you don’t have the required NZeTA or visa.
Pro Tip from Charlotte: “It will allow you to travel into New Zealand as many times as you want within that two-year period, providing you don’t exceed a total of nine months in an 18-month period.”
Before you even pack your bags, make sure you’re aware of the bigger picture. Our guide on how to move to New Zealand covers the first steps you need to take.
Mistake #3: Bringing Prescription Medications Without Paperwork
The Lowdown: If you are carrying prescription medication, you must have the doctor’s prescription or a letter with you.
What You MUST Know:
The Rule: This is especially critical if you are carrying more than three months’ supply.
Be Proactive: Customs officers may scan your bags. If they find undeclared pills, you will be pulled aside. It’s always better to over-declare than under-declare.
The Fine: Failure to declare can result in a hefty fine.
Pro Tip from Charlotte: “If you have any prescription medication… you will need to carry that prescription with you… It’s better to over-declare than under-declare, if you’re not sure.”
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Mistake #4: Having No Proof of Onward Travel
The Lowdown: When you enter on a visitor visa, you must satisfy the border officer that you intend to leave.
What You MUST Know:
What Counts as Proof? A booked flight out of New Zealand to any country (e.g., a round-trip to Australia) before your visa expires.
Why It Matters: Not having an onward ticket can be seen as an indication that you plan to overstay. Immigration can refuse you entry at the border.
Pro Tip from Charlotte: “It doesn’t necessarily have to be outward travel home… but you should be arriving at the New Zealand border with evidence that you have a flight booked out before the end of your… stay.”
Mistake #5: Not Declaring Food or Prohibited Items
The Lowdown: New Zealand’s biosecurity is no joke. The goal is to protect the country’s fragile ecosystem from foreign pests and diseases.
What You MUST Know:
What Can’t Come In: No fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, fish, or eggs. Even seemingly safe, processed items like biltong (dried meat) are prohibited.
What Can Come In: Commercially processed and packaged foods like chocolate, chips, and roasted nuts are generally okay, but if in doubt, declare it!
The Fine: An instant $400 NZD fine can be issued for failing to declare prohibited goods.
Pro Tip from Charlotte: “If you Google… ‘what can or can’t I bring into New Zealand,’ it will give you a really comprehensive list. But if you’re not sure, the best thing is to… declare it.”
Avoiding these mistakes is just the start. To truly settle in, be sure to read up on the common mistakes people make in New Zealand after they arrive.
Mistake #6: Bringing Unclean Outdoor Equipment
The Lowdown: Your hiking boots, golf clubs, tents, and even running shoes can carry soil and organisms that threaten New Zealand’s native species and agriculture.
What You MUST Know:
Clean Everything Thoroughly: Scrub all equipment, removing all dirt and soil from soles and crevices before you pack.
Declare It: The Traveller Declaration will ask if you have been on farmland or in the outdoors. Be honest. Officers may inspect your gear, and clean equipment will pass through quickly.
Pro Tip from Charlotte: “I always declare my running shoes just because I’m almost too scared not to… that can carry organisms into the country.”
Whether you’re heading to the mountains of the South or the beaches of the North, clean gear is essential. Still deciding where to base yourself? Our guide on New Zealand South Island or North Island can help you choose.
Your Key to a Stress-Free Arrival in New Zealand
The golden rule for arriving at Auckland International Airport or any New Zealand entry point is simple: When in doubt, declare it. The border officers are there to help and are generally friendly if you are honest and upfront. Trying to hide something turns a simple check into a serious issue.
By being prepared for these New Zealand entry questions and avoiding these common pitfalls, you’ll be through the border and starting your Kiwi adventure in no time.
Do you Love NZ?
Sign up for our FREE Life in New Zealand 5-Day Video Guide HERE, and we will share some fabulous secret behind-the-scenes glimpses into what life in New Zealand is REALLY like!
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