Asia and Oceania

New Zealand
Still current at: 25 November 2009 Updated: 25 August 2009

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with amendments to the Summary (consular statistics). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

(see travel advice legal disclaimer)

Travel advice for this country

Local laws and customs

The importation of illegal drugs is punishable by up to 8 - 12 years' imprisonment.

New Zealand has an established tradition of tolerance towards homosexuality, but there are still isolated incidents of homophobic related crimes. Gay and lesbian travellers should be aware of local sensitivities, particularly when visiting rural areas.

Quarantine Procedures

New Zealand has very strict bio-security regulations. It is illegal to import most foodstuffs (meat and meat products, honey, fruit, dairy produce etc) and strict penalties are handed out to those breaking these rules. You may also need to take care when importing wood products, golf clubs and shoes (may have soil and dirt attached), Wellington boots (for the same reason) and items made from animal skin (eg crocodile handbags). The immigration arrivals card has full details.

If in doubt, declare possibly illegal possessions to a Ministry of Agriculture official or dump them in one of the bins available at the airport.

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in a heavy fine.

As a result of these quarantine procedures, you should expect some delay on arrival.

For more general information for different types of travellers see Your Trip.

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Contacts

New Zealand, Wellington, British High Commission

Address:

44 Hill Street
Wellington 6011

Mailing Address:
P O Box 1812
Wellington 6140

Telephone:

(+64) (4) 924 2888 - This number is NOT for passport or visa enquiries

Visa - 0900 48472 charges apply
0800 448 972 charged to your credit card
Passport - 0044 208 082 4727 charged to your credit card
0900 990 202 charges apply

Fax:

(+64) (4) 473 4982 - Policy/Comms
(+64) (4) 924 2810 - Passports
(+64) (4) 924 2809 - Corporate Services

Office hours:

Office hours: GMT: Sun-Thurs: 2045-0500 (Personal Callers to Consular Section between 2100-0200 only)
Local time: Mon-Fri: 0845-1700 (Personal Callers to Consular Section between 0900-1400 only)

Website: http://ukinnewzealand.fco.gov.uk/en/