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The New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) is a digital system introduced to make the arrival process into New Zealand faster, safer, and more efficient. All travelers—regardless of nationality or visa status—must complete the declaration before entering New Zealand.

This online process is part of New Zealand’s initiative to modernize border procedures and enhance health and safety screening. Whether you’re arriving for tourism, visiting family and friends, or transiting through Auckland International Airport, the NZTD ensures that essential travel, health, and customs information is submitted in advance for a smoother entry experience.

From experiencing the vibrant culture of Auckland to exploring the natural beauty of Queenstown and beyond, completing the NZTD is a key step in preparing for your journey to New Zealand.

FAQs

The New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) is a mandatory digital form required of all international arrivals to New Zealand. It replaces the old paper passenger arrival card and collects your travel, customs, immigration, and biosecurity information. It is completely free and accessible via the official website or mobile app

Every traveller entering New Zealand by air or sea—including New Zealand citizens and permanent residents—must submit an NZTD. Transit passengers who remain airside at the airport are exempt, as are emergency arrivals (e.g. medical evacuations)

●​ Air travellers can submit no earlier than 24 hours before starting their journey, and must submit before reaching passport control in New Zealand.​
●​ If your journey includes a stopover where you leave the airport, you must submit within 24 hours before the flight from the stopover location to NZ. If you remain in transit (no airport exit), you may submit 24 hours before the first leg of travel

●​ Personal and passport details​
●​ Travel history from the past 30 days​
●​ Contact details and accommodation address in New Zealand​
●​ Flight or voyage details​
●​ Immigration status (visa/NZeTA if required)
​ ●​ Customs & biosecurity declarations (including food, plant/animal items, outdoor gear, medicines, tobacco/alcohol, and cash over NZD 10,000 or equivalent)

Yes, up until you reach passport control: use the reference number emailed to you to review, update, or resubmit your declaration. Any change requires a full resubmission. After processing, edits are no longer possible

You will receive:
●​ A reference number—useful for tracking or editing the declaration
​ ●​ A Traveller Pass or confirmation email, containing your QR code or confirmation that immigration officers can access when you arrive​
●​ No printed copy is required, as the NZTD links electronically to your passport at eGate or upon manual check by a border officer

What Happens Next?

New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) Outcome​

After submitting your NZTD, you will receive confirmation by email that your declaration has been successfully received.

Successful Declaration​

Once submitted, your Traveller Declaration is electronically linked to your passport and travel details. There is no need to print or present a separate document upon arrival — New Zealandborder officials can access your declaration electronically. You must complete a new NZTD before each arrival into New Zealand, ideally within 24 to 72 hours before your flight.

Issues or Errors​

If there is a problem with your NZTD submission — such as missing information or discrepancies — you may be contacted to correct the issue. It’s essential that your declaration is accurate and complete, including your personal details, travel history, and any items you’re bringing that must be declared. Inaccuracies may lead to delays at the border or potential penalties under New Zealand’s biosecurity and customs laws.