Please note that this list is subject to change. For the latest information on New Zealand travel restrictions, always check government sites directly as noted below.
Before you visit New Zealand, it’s important to be aware of any travel advisories and restrictions around the country. Here’s everything international travelers should know about New Zealand government restrictions and where to find updated information on New Zealand.
New Zealand Travel Restrictions
COVID-19
COVID-19 Restrictions: None
While there are no COVID-19 restrictions or requirements at New Zealand borders at this time, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends being up-to-date on your COVID-19 vaccines before travel overseas.
Whether you’re an international visitor or a New Zealand citizen, United Against COVID-19 is the government’s online source of information on COVID-19.
Health and Safety Warnings
The US Department of State has issued a Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions travel advisory for New Zealand. It also recommends that travelers to New Zealand be aware of areas with active volcanoes. GeoNet has up-to-date information on volcanic alert levels and other geological hazards in New Zealand.
Recently the State Department has issued New Zealand safety warnings for severe weather conditions. With 2023’s Cyclone Gabrielle, travelers were advised to seek shelter, obtain three days’ worth of supplies and a week’s worth of vital medication, and monitor local news reports and social media for updates.
Another previous warning for New Zealand involved unprecedented rain and flooding in the Auckland region. In January 2023, the US State Department urged travelers in New Zealand to monitor messages from local authorities, including the New Zealand National Emergency Agency (NEMA) and Auckland Emergency Management.
The New Zealand Police department has advice and information for visitors as well as a map of police stations within New Zealand’s main towns, cities, and rural areas.
The CDC has no travel health notices in effect for New Zealand at this time. The organization rates destinations on four watch levels, and New Zealand is currently at Level 1, which advises practicing the usual precautions. (Level 2 suggests taking enhanced precautions, Level 3 recommends reconsidering all non-essential travel, and at Level 4 you should avoid all travel.)
The most common types of issues affecting travelers to New Zealand involve outdoor activities. The CDC recommends staying safe when outside, especially in terms of sun protection, by applying sunscreen, remaining hydrated, and staying out of the sun during peak hours—particularly relevant advice for cruise-ship passengers.
Travelers should also remain alert to changing weather conditions, practice precautions against the possibility of insect bites by wearing long clothing and using insect repellent, and seek travel advice from a trusted health provider prior to departure.
Where to Find Updated New Zealand Travel Restrictions
For the most current information on New Zealand travel restrictions, visit the following:
- US Department of State: New Zealand International Travel Information
- New Zealand Immigration: Before You Travel to New Zealand
- New Zealand Tourism: COVID-19 Travel Safety and Information
- US Embassy & Consulates in New Zealand: Alerts for US Citizens
For other countries, please check your country’s New Zealand embassy website or official state department website for updated travel advisories and entry requirements.
What to Do in Case of Emergency
Emergencies can happen while traveling. Before leaving for New Zealand, individuals are strongly encouraged to purchase travel insurance in case medical treatment or medical evacuation might be needed. You should also learn important numbers in New Zealand, including those for emergency services, and leave copies of your plans with a family member or friend at home.
If you find yourself in trouble while traveling through New Zealand, reach out to your country’s embassy for assistance. The US embassy is in Wellington and the consulate general, Auckland.
Ahead of your trip, consider joining the US Bureau of Consular Affairs’ Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Signing up delivers travel alerts right to your phone or email, and it makes it easier for local authorities to find and contact you in case of emergency.
For additional information on current events in New Zealand, look to local authorities and news media for the latest updates.
Prepare for Your New Zealand Trip
Whether you need an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) or a Business Visa, obtaining the proper documentation is an essential part of planning your trip. At Entriva, we can easily and efficiently help with every aspect of getting a New Zealand visa. Start your New Zealand visa application process.
For more information on other aspects of travel to New Zealand, including local laws, health and safety, and local culture and customs, visit our New Zealand content hub.