New Zealand Traveller Declaration to replace paper Arrival Card in 2023

“Launched in March this year, the New Zealand Traveller Declaration system has been an important tool in supporting the safe re-opening of our borders,” says Customs Chief Executive Christine Stevenson.

“The New Zealand Customs Service, with other border agencies, will replace the paper arrival card with a new online New Zealand Traveller Declaration system by June 2023. Until this time, travellers will still be required to complete a Passenger Arrival Card.

“The New Zealand Customs Service along with the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, Biosecurity New Zealand, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Transport are continuing to develop the digital system.

“The digital declaration is an integral part of modernising our border experience and allows us to continue developing our response to risks. It will include customs, immigration and biosecurity declarations as well as health risk assessments if required.

“In early 2023 we’ll be starting pilots of the new system features and will be seeking feedback from travellers to New Zealand. This is part of our commitment to making sure border processes are straight forward and easy to comply with. We want to thank travellers for continuing to play their part in protecting New Zealand.”

“Biosecurity is of paramount importance to New Zealand's biodiversity and economy. We are always striving to improve the border controls we use to protect our natural environment and primary industries. The New Zealand Traveller Declaration will play a critical role in making sure travellers meet biosecurity requirements as we work towards adopting a range of digital clearance processes,” says Biosecurity New Zealand’s Deputy Director-General Stuart Anderson.

By 2025 we expect that more than 25 million people will have used the New Zealand Traveller Declaration system to enter New Zealand. Access to digital information allows border agencies to effectively assess and manage the increased volume of travellers to New Zealand.

“The development of the New Zealand Traveller Declaration is part of a long-term integrated approach. As the border grows more complex and volumes of trade and travellers increase, our aim is for easier flows and greater efficiency. The New Zealand Traveller Declaration will support this,” says Ministry of Transport Acting Chief Executive and Secretary for Transport Bryn Gandy.