Does New Zealand still have Covid restrictions?

Limits on gatherings are now entirely removed. However, face masks remain mandatory in public enclosed spaces and transport providers may still require travellers to show proof of vaccination or a negative test result.



As of February 26, 2026, New Zealand has removed all mandatory COVID-19 travel restrictions. International travelers are no longer required to provide proof of vaccination, and there is no longer a requirement to provide a negative pre-departure test or undergo post-arrival testing (RATs). The "traffic light" system and the "Vaccine Pass" were retired years ago. While the government still "strongly recommends" that travelers stay up-to-date with vaccinations and wear masks in high-risk healthcare settings, these are no longer legally enforceable for tourists. The only remaining "travel restriction" is the New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD), which is primarily used for biosecurity and customs purposes rather than health screening. If you test positive for COVID-19 while in New Zealand, the current 2026 guidance is to "self-isolate" for 5 days as a matter of public health courtesy, but there is no longer a mandatory government quarantine. For all practical purposes, travel to New Zealand has returned to pre-pandemic norms, with the focus shifted back to protecting the country's unique flora and fauna from biosecurity threats.

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Air New Zealand does not require passengers to provide proof of vaccination or a pre-departure test. We do ask that if you're feeling unwell and test positive for COVID-19, please consider changing your travel plans.

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You are required to complete a Border Cash Report if you carry NZ$10,000 or more cash (or foreign equivalent) into or out of New Zealand. You can complete this in the paper form: NZCS 337: Border Cash Report (DOC 332 KB), or, on condition of acceptance by a Customs Officer, the online Border Cash Report form .

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It is a good idea bring a small amount of New Zealand Currency with you, so you don't need to spend time organising cash at the airport or at the bank on your first day. Your local bank may need to order New Zealand Currency so allow a few days for this in your trip preparation.

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The best time to visit New Zealand is during the summer months of December to March. Expect long, bright, sunny days and temperatures between 61?F and 75?F. It's an ideal time to visit the lovely beaches or enjoy the many outdoor activities available, such as hiking and mountain biking.

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Travellers arriving in NZ
  • Food of any kind.
  • Plants or parts of plants (alive or dead)
  • Animals (alive or dead) or their products.
  • Equipment used with animals.
  • Equipment such as camping gear, golf clubs, and used bicycles.
  • Biological specimens.


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An NZeTA request costs NZD $17 on our free app, or NZD $23 if completed online.Allow 72 hours for your NZeTA request to be processed.

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Is toothpaste considered a liquid by the TSA? Yes, toothpaste must adhere to the 3-1-1 rule for liquids and gels. Toothpaste can be brought through TSA security in your carry-on as long as it is 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and placed in a 1-quart bag.

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How Much Cash Can You Fly With? If you are traveling on an international flight and have more than $10,000 in your possession, you must disclose the amount of U.S. Currency in your possession on a FinCEN 105 form. On a domestic flight, no rule requires you to disclose carrying $10,000 or more on the flight.

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U.S. citizens traveling to or transiting through New Zealand under the visa waiver program are required to have an NZeTA. This is also true for cruise ship passengers. It can take up to 72 hours to process an NZeTA so apply well in advance of your trip.

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Liquids, aerosols, pastes and gels (LAGs) All liquids, aerosols, gels or pastes must be in individual containers not larger than 100ml in volume.

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You can't bring or import any of these items into New Zealand: objectionable material contained on items such as mobile phones, USB devices, videotapes, films, records, CD-ROMs and in publications. equipment for smoking or taking drugs including certain cannabis or methamphetamine utensils and vaporisers.

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The summer months (December through to March) are the busiest times of the year for tourism. The peak of the summer season goes from December 26th (Boxing Day) for about three weeks as this is when many New Zealanders take their holidays.

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