Published on 1 February 2026

New Zealand: Import and customs regulations

Every traveller entering New Zealand must fill in a passenger arrival card declaring the items they are bringing into the country. Failure to declare restricted or prohibited items or a false or incorrect declaration on the arrival card can lead to penalties including a large fine or imprisonment.

The import of a wide range of goods is either subject to restrictions or prohibited in New Zealand. This includes, in particular, items that are designated as a bio-security threat and are subject to quarantine regulations or an import prohibition. All items must be declared.

Detailed information on New Zealand's import regulations can be found on the New Zealand Customs Service website.

The New Zealand embassy in Berlin, which is also responsible for Switzerland, can also answer your questions about customs regulations.

New Zealand Customs Service

Passenger Arrival Card

You must declare all imports on arrival.

Allowances and charges

Certain imports carry a surcharge or a fee.

Prohibited and restricted items

Certain goods may not be imported into New Zealand or require a permit.

Personal household items

Information on importing private household goods into New Zealand.

Bringing pets and animals into NZ

There are strict regulations for importing live animals into New Zealand.

Vehicles, boats and planes

Import regulations for vehicles, boats and aircraft.

Swiss banking services for Swiss citizens abroad

Current situation

In view of stricter international regulatory requirements in recent years, financial institutions have become increasingly sensitive to potential legal and reputational risks, especially in relation to cross-border banking services. Swiss financial institutions therefore provide no or only limited access to certain financial services to individuals living outside Switzerland. Nevertheless, subject to local and Swiss legal provisions, many still offer current accounts to Swiss nationals living in various countries.

Talk with your bank as soon as possible about your options

The relationship between customers and their bank is governed by private law. If you are planning to relocate abroad or return to Switzerland, you are advised to talk with your bank to find out what regulations apply in your case and what options best meet your needs.