New Zealand customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026

New Zealand enforces a strict biosecurity regime: you must declare any food, plant material, animal products, or outdoor equipment, or face an instant fine of NZD 400. For 2026, the duty-free allowance for non-resident adults is NZD 700 for personal goods, 1.125 L of spirits (or 4.5 L of wine/beer), and 50 cigarettes (or 50g of tobacco).

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.1 L
1.125 L of spirits (over 22% ABV) OR 4.5 L of wine/beer (under 22% ABV). You must be 18+.
Tobacco
50 cigarettes
Per adult traveller
Cash to declare
$10,000
Cash or equivalent monetary instruments of NZD 10,000 or more (about USD 6,000) must be declared on the Passenger Arrival Card. Amounts over NZD 10,000 require a Border Cash Report.
Goods duty-free
$700
Personal goods (gifts, souvenirs, new items) up to NZD 700 (about USD 430) are duty-free. Above that, duty and GST (15%) apply on the total value over NZD 700.

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Illicit drugs and narcotics (including cannabis, even for medical use without a permit)
  • Weapons including firearms, pepper spray, and flick knives (unless licensed)
  • Endangered species products (ivory, rhino horn, turtle shell, etc.) without CITES permit
  • Food items containing meat, poultry, or dairy from most countries (unless fully cooked and commercially packaged with a permit)
  • Honey and bee products (strictly prohibited without a biosecurity clearance)
  • Pirated goods and counterfeit currency

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Prescription medicines (must be in original packaging with a doctor's letter or prescription, for personal use up to 3 months)
  • Plants, seeds, and soil (require a phytosanitary certificate and biosecurity clearance)
  • Outdoor equipment (tents, hiking boots, fishing gear) must be clean and declared for inspection
  • Drones and unmanned aircraft (require a permit from the Civil Aviation Authority if over 250g)
  • Satellite phones and GPS devices with military-grade encryption (may require a permit from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment)

Rules worth knowing

Biosecurity Declaration is Mandatory

Every arriving passenger must complete a Passenger Arrival Card and declare any risk goods (food, plants, animal products, outdoor gear). Failure to declare results in an instant NZD 400 fine (NZD 800 if a formal infringement notice is issued).

Duty-Free Goods Must Be Carried with You

Duty-free allowances apply only to goods you bring in your hand luggage or accompanied baggage. Goods shipped separately (unaccompanied baggage) are subject to full duty and GST.

GST Refund for Tourists

Non-residents can claim a refund of 15% GST on goods purchased in New Zealand and taken out of the country within 12 months, provided the total purchase value is NZD 500 or more per retailer. Claim at the airport before departure.

Alcohol and Tobacco Must Be for Personal Use

Duty-free allowances are for personal use only. If you bring more than the allowance, you must declare it and pay duty and GST on the excess. Commercial quantities (e.g., multiple cartons of cigarettes) may be seized.

Frequently asked questions

Most food items must be declared. Commercially packaged, shelf-stable snacks (e.g., chocolate, biscuits) are usually allowed, but fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, and dairy are strictly controlled. Declare everything and let biosecurity officers inspect it.
You will receive an instant fine of NZD 400 (about USD 240) for failing to declare risk goods. For serious breaches, you could face prosecution and fines up to NZD 100,000 or imprisonment.
You can bring 1.125 L of spirits (over 22% ABV) OR 4.5 L of wine or beer (under 22% ABV). You must be 18 or older. If you bring more, you must declare and pay duty on the excess.
Yes, for personal use up to 3 months' supply. Keep it in original packaging with a doctor's letter or prescription. Controlled drugs (e.g., opioids) require a permit from the Ministry of Health.
You must declare any cash or monetary instruments (e.g., traveler's cheques, money orders) worth NZD 10,000 or more (about USD 6,000). There is no limit on the amount you can bring, but failure to declare can result in seizure and fines.
Yes, but drones over 250g require a permit from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) before arrival. You must also follow New Zealand's drone rules (e.g., no flying near airports, people, or restricted areas). Declare it on arrival.

Official source

New Zealand Customs Service

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with New Zealand Customs Service before travelling.