Do I need the declaration if I am only in transit?

If you clear the border you need one. If you stay airside on an international connection you generally do not, but check your specific routing.

Can I complete it on paper?

Digital is the standard. Limited assistance is available at the airport if you genuinely cannot use the app, but it will slow you down.

What if my flight changes after I submit?

You can go back into the declaration and update your details before arrival.

How long after landing should I book a pickup?

Our airport drivers track your flight and wait, so you do not have to guess. Ninety minutes from touchdown to kerbside is a realistic worst case at a busy Auckland morning.

At the border

The New Zealand Traveller Declaration, explained

What the arrival declaration asks, when to complete it, and the honest answers that keep you out of trouble.

5 min read · updated 2026-09

Everyone arriving in New Zealand files a traveller declaration — citizens, residents, visitors and children alike. It replaced the old paper card and is completed online or in the official app, free of charge.

Use the official government website or app only. Third-party sites charge for a form that costs nothing.

When to complete it

You can submit it from around 24 hours before departure, and it must be done before you reach the border. Fill it in at home with your bags packed in front of you rather than in a queue at the airport — the questions are much easier to answer honestly when you can see what you have actually brought.

What it asks

Passport and travel details, including your flight and arrival date.
Where you will stay for your first night, so have an address ready.
Countries you have visited in the last 30 days.
Whether you are carrying food of any kind — including snacks in your hand luggage.
Whether you have plant material, wooden items, animal products or traditional medicines.
Whether you have hiking boots, tents, fishing or golf gear that has touched soil or fresh water.
Prescription medicines you are bringing in.
Cash of NZ$10,000 or more, and goods over your duty-free allowance.

Declaring is free, hiding is not

Biosecurity is taken seriously here because our farming and native species depend on it. Declaring an apple costs you nothing — an officer either lets it through or bins it. Failing to declare it carries an instant fine, so if you are unsure, tick yes and ask. Clean the mud off your boots and tent pegs before you pack them and you will sail through.

One declaration per person

Each traveller needs their own, including babies. A parent or travelling companion can complete them on someone else's behalf within the same app, which makes family arrivals quick. You will receive a confirmation to show if asked.

Allow real time on arrival. Passport control is usually quick; the biosecurity queue is not, especially when several long-haul flights land together. If someone is waiting for you kerbside, make sure they are tracking the flight rather than the schedule.

Common questions

Do I need the declaration if I am only in transit?: If you clear the border you need one. If you stay airside on an international connection you generally do not, but check your specific routing.
Can I complete it on paper?: Digital is the standard. Limited assistance is available at the airport if you genuinely cannot use the app, but it will slow you down.
What if my flight changes after I submit?: You can go back into the declaration and update your details before arrival.
How long after landing should I book a pickup?: Our airport drivers track your flight and wait, so you do not have to guess. Ninety minutes from touchdown to kerbside is a realistic worst case at a busy Auckland morning.

Land, meet your driver, go

We run private airport transfers and intercity trips across both islands with a fixed price quoted before you book — no meters, no surge, and your driver tracks the flight.

Get a transfer price