The initial rollout of the New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) is underway, marking a significant shift towards digitalisation in the country’s border control processes. The trial at Auckland International Airport, scheduled between August 7 and 14, is set to test the operational processes related to the NZTD.
NZTD senior responsible owner Sharon May says “We’re really pleased with the initial roll out of the New Zealand Traveller Declaration. With the system running smoothly, we’re now looking towards the next trial which aims to test NZTD related operational processes at Auckland International Airport.”
Following this trial, from late August, all air travellers arriving into New Zealand will have the option to complete a digital declaration. This option is already available to travellers arriving into Wellington, Christchurch or Queenstown airports, who can now opt for a digital declaration instead of a paper Passenger Arrival Card before travelling to New Zealand.
Travellers can start and complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration either on a web browser at www.travellerdeclaration.govt.nz/, or on the NZTD app.
To support the transition, a paper arrival card will continue to be distributed on flights and accepted at the border. From late August, an NZTD paper form will replace the existing Passenger Arrival Card, ensuring support for travellers who do not complete a digital declaration.
The NZTD is free and takes about 10 minutes to complete, although there is no penalty for taking longer. Based on digital declarations submitted since the system went live earlier in July, the average time to complete a declaration is about 7 minutes and can be completed within 24 hours prior to traveling. Each traveller, including babies and children, needs to complete a declaration. The system also allows for someone you trust to help you complete it or do it on your behalf, with your permission.
The NZTD is designed to help travellers know what they need to declare when they travel to New Zealand. It aims to streamline the movement of travellers through our airports and enhance the safety and security of New Zealand.
Some travellers may also still require the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA). Information about the NZeTA is available on the NZTD website and in information resources.
The NZTD Partners Toolkit has been published at www.customs.govt.nz/about-us/new-zealand-traveller-declaration-programme/toolkit-for-partners/. It includes a factsheet, instructional video, welcome video, and screenshots of the NZTD mobile app and web declaration landing pages.
The exact date for the go-live at Auckland Airport is yet to be confirmed but it will be late August 2023.
