Customs & Quarantine

New Zealand's customs regulations are much like those of other countries but it has some of the toughest quarantine policies in the world.
Customs
Visitors aged over 17 are allowed to bring 1125ml of spirits or 4.5 litres of wine or beer and 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco into New Zealand without paying import duties. You are also allowed to import personal items such as cameras and electronic goods without paying duties, as long as you take these items out of the country.
Like many other countries, you are not allowed to bring weapons or prohibited drugs into New Zealand.
Visit the New Zealand Customs Service website (www.customs.govt.nz) for more information.
Quarantine
Because of New Zealand is free of many pests and diseases that plague other countries, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Quarantine Service (tel: (09) 256 8547; website: www.maf.govt.nz/quarantine/) are extremely vigilant about keeping these out of the country.
You will have to declare any food and animal or plant products that you have with you and most unpackaged food will not be allowed into the country. Quarantine officers will also check for dirty boots or shoes as well as camping equipment that may contain dirt that could introduce pests and diseases into New Zealand. You will also be questioned if you have visited a farm or engaged in any outdoor activity or if you have visited certain African or South American countries within the past week.
If you do not declare, or bring in prohibited items you will be fined or prosecuted.