British holidaymakers could face being turned away at the New Zealand border if they fail to present a specific document.
The UK’s Foreign Office has recently updated its advice, stating that anyone travelling to New Zealand will need to complete a declaration form.
The New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) must be filled out prior to the journey and can be completed online or via the NZTD app, even for infants and children. For those unable to access the digital options, a paper version is also available, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Thankfully, there’s no cost involved in completing the form. Introduced in 2023, the NZTD was designed to enhance the safety and security of New Zealand by allowing Customs to adapt to changing situations or incidents at the border. It replaced the traditional ‘Passenger Arrival Card’ and is linked to each individual’s passport, checked upon arrival at the eGate or by a border officer.
So, what does this mean for you?If you’re flying to New Zealand, you can submit your declaration as early as 24 hours before your trip begins. However, it must be submitted by the time you reach passport control in New Zealand.
For those arriving by sea, the earliest submission time is 24 hours before departing the last foreign port before reaching New Zealand, and it must be submitted by the time the vessel docks at its first port in New Zealand.
In addition to a New Zealand Traveller Declaration, Brits will require a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA), even for stays shorter than six months. To qualify for visa-free entry, travellers must present evidence of a return or onward ticket, and sufficient funds for their stay.
For those entering without a visa and travelling through the country, an NZeTA is also necessary prior to travel, and it’s valid for up to two years. In most instances, transit passengers are required to possess an NZeTA or transit NZeTA before travel.