Permits needed for importing CITES protected plant or animal items into New Zealand will depend on:

• the age of the item
• what appendix the species is protected under.

To find out if your species is listed under CITES you will need to know the correct scientific name to search the Species+ database.

Search the Species Plus database.

In most cases you will only need a permit issued by the exporting country’s CITES Authority to import into New Zealand. One exception is for Appendix I species - in this case you will need to apply for a New Zealand issued CITES import permit first.

Overseas permits must be applied for through the overseas CITES authority. Their contact details can be found at National CITES Authorities.

Heirlooms or very old items

Some old items can have fewer permitting requirements. If they were made or obtained before the date they were included in the CITES Appendices, they are considered pre-Convention. Permits for importing pre-Convention items must be obtained through the overseas CITES authority.

If you are still unsure what the requirements are for your items, email us at cites@doc.govt.nz.

Other rules that may apply

• If your item includes any part of a New Zealand native or endemic species you may need additional permission under New Zealand’s Wildlife Act. Contact the Wildlife Act Team, email permissionshamilton@doc.govt.nz.
• If your item includes any part from a marine mammal such as dolphins, seals or whales, you may need a marine mammals permit.

New Zealand Biosecurity

New Zealand has strict controls on items arriving into the country. This is to protect our environment and health. The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) are responsible for making sure they meet these requirements. Find out more at MPS's website.

New Zealand Customs Service

New Zealand Customs Service also administers requirements for importing goods. Find out more at New Zealand Customs Service website.

After you have received your permit

When you have your permit(s), make sure that you meet any special conditions listed. Be aware of any additional pages or related documents that must be presented with your permit.

• Check your permit’s expiry date carefully. Your permit must be valid at the time your item enters New Zealand. 
• The original permit should accompany your items. It must be presented to New Zealand border staff at the time, or before, the item arrives into New Zealand.
• CITES permits are generally not valid unless endorsed. Make sure the export country’s border officials endorse the CITES permit prior to departure unless specifically not required to do so by the issuing authority. 

Note: New Zealand issued import permits for Appendix I items do not require border agency endorsement.

Items without valid CITES permits will be seized

Imported CITES items that don’t have an appropriate or valid permit presented on time will be seized and forfeited.

DOC may also take enforcement action under the Trade in Endangered Species Act 1989. This may result in an infringement fine or prosecution through the courts.

Apply for a permit

Apply for a CITES permit