Described as a ‘beautiful place’ and ‘a great treat for the eyes and mind’, this popular destination is a dream trip for many. But travellers heading to this faraway destination could be denied entry if they don’t do one vital thing.
Brits traipsing all the way to the other side of the world to New Zealand have been warned that they must have a new document to enter the country.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) revealed that anyone planning to jet off to the destination must complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration.
‘It is free and you can do it via the online form or the NZTD app. There is a paper declaration form available for travellers who cannot complete it online.’ the FCDO said.
‘Your declaration is linked to your passport and is checked when you arrive at the eGate or by a border officer.’
The declaration collects your travel, customs, immigration and biosecurity information all together.
In it, you must include standard information, such as your passport number, travel details, contact details, and your recent travel history.
Perhaps unexpectedly though, you’ll also have to tell them where you’ll be staying and information about the items you’ll be bringing into the country.
Everyone travelling to New Zealand must complete one for themselves or on behalf of everyone in their travelling party – this includes babies and toddlers.
The rules also still apply even if you’re a New Zealand citizen or hold a New Zealand visa.
While the form can be started at any time, it cannot be submitted any earlier than 24 hours before you start your trip to New Zealand.
It can be completed at any point of your journey, but it must be submitted before you reach passport control in your final destination.
Over 167,000 Brits visited New Zealand in 2023, slowly coming back to pre-pandemic figures of 231,712 in 2019 – so this change could affect many people.
Don’t let paperwork end your trip of a lifetime.
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