New Zealand is a popular destination for international travellers, offering everything from spectacular alpine scenery and beautiful coastlines to Māori cultural experiences and adventure activities.

However, before planning your holiday, it is important to understand the country's entry requirements. Travellers may need a visa or a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA), and everyone entering the country must complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration.

Whether you are visiting for a holiday, joining a guided tour or travelling with a group, here are the key requirements to understand before your journey.

1. Do you need a visa or an NZeTA?

Your entry requirements depend on the passport you hold, your travel purpose and how you are arriving in New Zealand.

Travellers from visa-waiver countries

Citizens of eligible visa-waiver countries generally do not need to apply for a visitor visa before travelling. However, they must obtain an approved NZeTA before departure.

An NZeTA is generally valid for two years and allows multiple visits, subject to the applicable stay conditions. Eligible visitors are normally granted permission to stay for up to three months per visit, while UK passport holders may be granted up to six months.

Travellers from countries requiring a visitor visa

If your nationality is not covered by the visa-waiver arrangements, you will generally need to apply for and receive an appropriate visitor visa before travelling.

Australian citizens and permanent residents

Australian citizens travelling on Australian passports do not need a visa or NZeTA. Australian permanent residents generally need an NZeTA, unless they already hold an appropriate New Zealand visa.

Always check the official Immigration New Zealand eligibility tool using the passport you intend to travel with.

2. What is the NZeTA and how much does it cost?

The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) is an electronic travel authorisation required for eligible visa-waiver visitors, certain cruise passengers and some other categories of travellers.

Key points:

  • An NZeTA is generally valid for two years for visitors.
  • It allows multiple journeys while valid.
  • Allow up to 72 hours for processing.
  • The application fee starts from NZD $17, depending on the application method.
  • Most eligible international visitors must also pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL).

Apply only through the official Immigration New Zealand website or mobile app. Avoid unofficial websites that may charge additional service fees.

3. International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL)

Most international visitors who require an NZeTA or an eligible visitor visa must pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy.

The current levy is NZD $100 per eligible visitor.

The levy is generally paid when applying for an NZeTA or visa. It is not a separate payment collected at the airport.

Some travellers are exempt, including New Zealand and Australian passport holders, holders of New Zealand resident visas and certain other categories.

Check whether the levy applies to your circumstances before submitting your application.

4. Passport validity requirements

Your passport must be valid for travel to New Zealand.

For most international visitors, it must remain valid for at least three months after the date you intend to leave New Zealand.

Before departure:

  • Check your passport expiry date.
  • Ensure your passport details match your visa or NZeTA.
  • If you receive a new passport after obtaining your visa or NZeTA, arrange the required update or transfer.
  • Make sure your passport is not damaged or reported lost or stolen.

Airlines may refuse boarding if your travel documents do not meet the requirements.

5. Complete the New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD)

Every person travelling into New Zealand must complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration, including children and infants.

The declaration collects information about your journey, immigration status, recent travel history and the items you are bringing into the country.

You can complete it online or through the official NZTD app.

When can you submit it?

  • Air travellers: Within 24 hours before starting their journey to New Zealand.
  • Sea travellers: Within 24 hours before the vessel departs its last overseas port before arriving in New Zealand.

The declaration is free. You do not need to print it after submission.

Make sure the information is accurate, especially when declaring food, medicines and outdoor equipment.

6. New Zealand customs and biosecurity rules

New Zealand has strict biosecurity controls designed to protect its agriculture, wildlife and natural environment.

Some everyday travel items may need to be declared or inspected.

Items to pay particular attention to include:

  • Food, including fresh fruit, vegetables, meat and dairy products.
  • Seeds, plants and flowers.
  • Honey and other bee products.
  • Wooden products and items made from natural materials.
  • Hiking boots, camping equipment and outdoor gear that may contain soil or plant material.
  • Animal products and certain traditional medicines.

Used outdoor equipment should be cleaned thoroughly before packing.

Important: If you are unsure whether an item is permitted, declare it. Failing to declare risk goods can result in a NZD $400 instant infringement fee or further penalties.

Declaring an item does not automatically mean it will be confiscated. Biosecurity officers assess whether it can safely enter the country.

7. Do you need proof of onward travel and sufficient funds?

Visitors may be asked to show evidence that they can support themselves during their stay and leave New Zealand before their permitted stay expires.

Useful documents to carry include:

  • A confirmed return or onward flight ticket.
  • Hotel or accommodation confirmations.
  • Recent bank statements or credit card evidence.
  • A copy of your travel itinerary.
  • Your visa or NZeTA confirmation.

The exact requirements depend on your visa category and individual circumstances.

8. Travel insurance and health requirements

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for international visitors.

Medical treatment in New Zealand can be expensive for travellers who are not eligible for publicly funded healthcare. Consider insurance that covers medical expenses, emergency assistance, trip cancellation, luggage and activity-related risks.

If you plan to participate in adventure activities such as skiing, hiking, jet boating or other outdoor experiences, check that your policy covers those activities.

As of November 2026, New Zealand does not have general COVID-19 vaccination or testing requirements for international arrivals. Travellers should still check current public health advice before departure.

9. Travelling to New Zealand as part of a tour group

If you are joining an organised tour, school trip or private group holiday, it is important to complete your travel documentation individually.

Each traveller must have the appropriate visa or NZeTA, where required, and their own New Zealand Traveller Declaration.

Group organisers should:

  • Check passport validity well before departure.
  • Confirm visa or NZeTA requirements for every nationality.
  • Allow sufficient time for visa processing.
  • Ensure travellers understand biosecurity rules.
  • Keep copies of accommodation and onward travel arrangements.
  • Share arrival instructions before the group departs.

For families and groups, the NZeTA mobile app allows applications for up to 10 people at a time. However, each traveller still needs their own authorisation.

Final checklist before travelling to New Zealand

Before leaving for your holiday, make sure you have:

  • A valid passport.
  • An approved visa or NZeTA, if required.
  • Paid the IVL, if applicable.
  • Completed your New Zealand Traveller Declaration.
  • Confirmed return or onward travel arrangements.
  • Accommodation and itinerary details.
  • Appropriate travel insurance.
  • Checked the customs and biosecurity rules.

Plan your New Zealand holiday with local support

Understanding entry requirements is an important first step towards a smooth New Zealand holiday. Once your travel documents are organised, you can focus on discovering the country's landscapes, culture and experiences.

At The Rayar Way Tours, we help international travellers and overseas travel agents organise New Zealand holidays, from private sightseeing tours to customised multi-day itineraries and group travel arrangements.

Planning your visit to New Zealand in 2026 or 2027?

Get in touch with The Rayar Way Tours to discuss your travel plans and let our local team help you create a memorable New Zealand experience.

Visit The Rayar Way Tours