Transit through New Zealand
Who are transit passengers
If you pass through New Zealand on your way to another country and you do not plan to stay, you are a transit passenger.
You can only transit New Zealand through Auckland International Airport, where you must stay in the transit area of the airport. You cannot apply to enter New Zealand.
You can remain in transit for up to 24 hours. If you need to stay longer than 24 hours, you are not a transit passenger and you need to apply to enter New Zealand.
New Zealand border entry requirements | immigration.govt.nz (external link)
Who can transit through New Zealand
You may need a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) or transit visa to transit New Zealand.
Check if you need an NZeTA or transit visa
Who can transit New Zealand | immigration.govt.nz (external link)
Transiting New Zealand to Australia
You can transit New Zealand to travel to Australia.
To be eligible to transit New Zealand to Australia, you must meet all requirements for entry to Australia.
Check if you:
- need a valid visa to enter Australia
- need proof of your vaccination status
- meet the entry requirements of the state or territory you are travelling to.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you comply with Australian entry requirements.
Restrictions on transiting New Zealand to China
Only travellers from some countries are allowed to transit New Zealand to China.
Who can transit New Zealand to China | immigration.govt.nz (external link)
Entering New Zealand for longer than 24 hours
If you are entering New Zealand for longer than 24 hours, you are not a transit passenger. You must have a valid visa that permits your entry into New Zealand.
New Zealand border entry requirements | immigration.govt.nz (external link)
Proof of vaccination
If you are transiting New Zealand and you are not a New Zealand citizen, resident or Australian citizen who normally lives in New Zealand, you must be vaccinated with approved vaccines. This applies even though you are staying airside and you do not go through Customs.
Travellers aged 16 years or under do not need to be vaccinated.
Pre-departure tests
You do not need to get a pre-departure test if you are transiting New Zealand.
However, you will likely need a pre-departure test for your final destination and other countries on your journey. You may also need to meet health requirements at your final destination.
It is your responsibility to make sure you understand the requirements of the countries you are travelling though and your final destination. You will not be able to transit New Zealand if you do not meet all requirements.
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