G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
16 February 2021  
(21-1324) Page: 1/32 
Committee on Import Licensing  Original: English  
 
REPLIES TO QUESTIONNAIRE ON IMPORT LICENSING PROCEDURES1 
NOTIFICATION UNDER ARTICLE 7.3 OF THE  
AGREEMENT ON IMPORT LICENSING PROCEDURES ( 2020) 
NEW ZEALAND  
The following notification, dated 3 February  2021, is being circulated at the request of the delegation 
of New Zealand.  
 
_______________  
 
 
1   ANTI -PERSONNEL MINES  ................................ ................................ ............................  2 
2   CHEMICAL WEAPONS  ................................ ................................ ................................ .. 4 
3   CONTROLLED  DRUGS  ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 6 
4   CLUSTER MUNITIONS  ................................ ................................ ................................ .. 9 
5   ENDANGERED, THREATENED SPECIES  ................................ ................................ ....... 11 
6   AMMUNITION, BLANK -FIRING GUNS, FIREARMS, AND RESTRICTED WEAPONSV  ...... 12 
7   EXPLOSIVES  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............  13 
8   HAZARDOUS WAST ES ................................ ................................ ................................  16 
9   GRAPHIC MATERIALS INTENDED FOR USE BY CHILDREN  ................................ ..........  18 
10   OFFENSIVE WEAPONS (KNIVES, BAYONETS, AND KNUCKLE DUSTERS)  ..................  20 
11   IMPORTS T O ANTARCTICA  ................................ ................................ ......................  21 
12   MARINE ANIMALS  ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 24 
13   OZONE DEP LETING SUBSTANCES  ................................ ................................ ............  26 
14   RADIOACTIVE SUBSTANCES  ................................ ................................ ....................  28 
15   PSYCHOACTIVE SUBSTANCES  ................................ ................................ ..................  30 
 
 
  
 
1 See G/LIC/3, Annex, for the Questionnaire.  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
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  1  ANTI -PERSON NEL MINES  
The Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti -Personnel 
Mines and on their Destruction, 1997 (the Con vention), is implemented in New  Zealand through the: 
Anti-Personnel Mines Prohibition Act 1998.  
 
Outline of Systems  
1. The Anti-Personnel Mines Prohibition Act 1998 prohibits the import of all anti -personnel landmines, 
except for anti -personnel mines to be used, developed, produced, otherwise acquired, possessed, 
retained, imported or exported for the purposes of developing, or training persons in, techniques  of 
mine detection, mine clearance, mine deactivation, or mine destruction.  
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2.(a) The Minister of Foreign Affairs may, by notice in writing, authorise anti -personnel mines to be 
used, developed, produced, otherwise acqui red, possessed, retained, imported or exported 
for the purposes of developing, or training persons in, techniques of mine detection, mine 
clearance, mine deactivation, or mine destruction.  
 
(b)  Anti-personnel mine  
 
(i)  means a mine designed to be exploded by the presence, proximity, or contact of a 
person, and that is capable of incapacitating, injuring, or killing 1 or more persons; but  
(ii)  does not include a mine designed to be detonated by the presence, proximity, or contact 
of a vehicle as op posed to a person and equipped with an anti -handling device.  
  
3. The system applies to goods originating in and coming from "all" countries.  
 
4. The system is designed to meet the requir ements of the Convention by restricting the quantity of 
anti-personnel mines imported to those required for the purposes of developing, or training persons 
in, techniques of mine detection, mine clearance, mine deactivation, or mine destruction. 
The Minister of Foreign Affairs must specify, by notice in the Gazette, the number of anti -personnel 
mines determined by the Minister to be the number that, for the time being, are absolutely necessary 
for the purposes described above.  
 
5. The Anti-Personnel Mines Prohibition Act 1998 prohibits the import of all anti -personnel landmines, 
except for anti -personnel mines to be used, developed, produced, otherwise acquired, possessed, 
retained, imported or exported for the purposes of developing, or training persons in, techniques of 
mine detection, mine clearance, mine deac tivation, or mine destruction.  
 
The licensing is statutorily required, and the legislation does not leave designation of products to be 
subjected to licensing to administrative discretion (see answer to Q2 (i) above).  
 
It is not possible for the government  (or the executive branch) to abolish the system without 
legislative approval . 
 
Procedures  
6. Importers must seek the approval of the Min ister of Foreign Affairs, who must then give notice 
in writing as per 2 (a) above.   
 
I.  The Minister of Foreign Affair s must specify, by notice in the Gazette , the number of 
anti-personnel  mines determined by the Minister to be the number that, for the time being, 
are absolutely necessary for the purposes of developing, or training persons in, techniques of 
mine detection , mine clearance, mine deactivation, or mine destruction.  
 
II. Volume quotas do not apply.  
 
III. Not applicable.  
 
IV. Not applicable.  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
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  V. There are no minimum or maximum times for processing applications.  
 
VI There is no minimum or maximum time.  
 
VII. Consideration of applications is effected on the whole by a single administrative organ 
(the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, New Zealand). However, applications may be 
referred as required to other agencie s for technical advice when assessing the stated purpose 
of the import, the capabilities o f the importer to effect the stated purpose, and security 
assessments around the storage, use and disposal of the anti -personnel mines.   
 
VIII. The Minister of Forei gn Affairs determines the number of anti -personnel mines required to 
meet any exceptions to the Act. Should an application have merit then the Minister could 
adjust the gazetted number of mines permitted in the country.  
 
IX. Not applicable.  
 
X.  Not appli cable.  
  
XI. No. 
 
7.(a) Not applicable.  
 
(b) Not applicable. Those importing anti -personnel mines inadvertently could face prosecution.  
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) Not applicable.  
 
8. None. Although there is no statutory right of administrative appeal against any of the decisions 
by the Minister, applicants could seek a judicial review of an administrative decision through the 
courts.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9.(a) Yes. 
 
(b)  Not applicable.  
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. There are no specifically listed information requirements. Applicants would need to make a case 
to the Minister of Foreign Affairs for the importation of anti -personnel mines in conformance with 
the stated exemptions outlined in  the Anti-Personnel Mines Prohibition Act 1998 , and provide 
relevant details around type, quantity, storage and ultimate disposal.  
 
11. Authorisation from the Minister of Foreign Affairs to import and designation by the Minister as 
an officer authorised to  be in possession of anti -personnel mines as defined in the Anti-Personnel 
Mines Prohibition Act 1998 . An import entry clearance would need to be completed with Customs 
before release of the goods.  
 
12. There are no administrative charges for the process of obta ining permission to import 
anti-personnel mines.  
 
13. Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. There is no set period of validity for an approval to import. It is possible a period of validity could 
be specified at the time of approval by the M inister of Foreign Affairs.  
 
15. No.  
 G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
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  16. No. 
 
17. No, other than compliance with the Anti-Personnel Mines Prohibition Act 1998 . 
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. No. 
 
19. Not applicable.   
 
2  CHEMICAL WEAPONS  
The Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) is impl emented in New Zealand through the Chemical 
Weapons (Prohibition) Act 1996.  
 
Outline of Systems  
1. The Chemical Weapons (Prohibition) Act 1996 prohibits the import of all CWC scheduled 
chemicals, unless permission is granted in writing (an import permit is granted) by the Ministry of 
Foreign Affairs and Trade.  
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2.(a) CWC Schedule 1 chemicals : these are the most toxic and tightly controlled chemicals, 
primarily consisting of military chemical warfare nerve, blister, choking, or blood agents, 
including sarin and its near relations.   
 
(b) CWC Schedule 2A toxic chemicals and 2B precursor chemica ls: these are dual -use 
chemicals, more commonly used and traded for routine commercial purposes in New  Zealand. 
All Schedule  2A chemicals are controlled. A Schedule 2B chemical is controlled if:  
- it constitutes more than 10% (by weight) of a mixture, OR  
- if the mix contains more than one Schedule 2 or Schedule 3 chemical.  
 
(c) CWC Schedule 3A toxic chemicals and 3B precursor chemicals: these are dual -use 
chemicals, more commonly used and traded for routine commercial purposes. A Schedule 3A 
or 3B chemica l is controlled if:  
- it constitutes more than 10 per cent (by weight) of a mixture, OR  
- if the mix contains more than one Schedule 2 or Schedule 3 chemical.  
 
All scheduled chemicals are listed on the OPCW website, https://www.opcw.org/ . 
  
3. The system applies to goods originating in and coming from "all" countries. The CWC prohibits 
the transfer of Schedule 1 and 2 chemicals to countries/territories which are not party to the CWC. 
A full list of countries/territori es party to the CWC are listed on the OPCW website 
https://www.opcw.org/ . 
 
4. The licensing of CWC chemical imports is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports, 
but to meet the requirements of the CWC,  i.e. the CWC aims to eliminate an entire category of 
weapons of mass destruction by prohibiting the development, production, acquisition, stockpiling, 
retention, transfer, or use of chemicals weapons by States Parties. States Parties in turn must take 
the steps necessary to enforce that prohibition in respect of persons (natural or legal) within their 
jurisdiction . 
 
5. The Chemical Weapons (Prohibition) Act 1996 prohibits the import of all Chemical Weapons 
Convention (CWC) scheduled chemicals, unless permi ssion is granted in writing (an import permit 
is granted) by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.  
 
The licensing is statutorily required, and the legislation does not leave designation of products to be 
subjected to licensing to administrative discretion (see answer to Q2 above).  
 
It is not possible for the government (or the executive branch) to abolish the system without 
legislative approval.  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
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  Procedures  
6. Not applicable. Information concerning scheduled chemicals and how to app ly for an import licence 
to enter New Zealand is published on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, New Zealand's 
website: https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/trade/trading -weapons -and-controlled -chemicals/how -to-
import -or-export -controlled -chemicals/  together with more detailed information on the application 
procedure.  
 
7.(a) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, New Zealand endeavours to process all applications 
within 10 -working days. Application for the import of CWC Schedule 1  Chemicals must be 
received by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, New Zealand at least  37 days prior to 
the anticipated shipment date. Advance notification is required because the transfer must be 
notified to the Organisation for the Prevention of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) which 
implements the CWC internationally, at least 30 days in advance.  Licences can be obtained 
within a shorter time -limit if required.  
 
(b) Not immediately, but depending on circumstances, a licence can be provided within 24 hours 
of application.  
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) Consideration of licence applications is effected by a single a dministrative organ.  
 
8. Specific CWC requirements prohibit the re -transfer of Schedule 1  chemicals. In practice this 
means that Schedule 1  chemicals imported into New Zealand may not be retransferred to a third 
country. In these circumstances an import li cence would be declined. If Schedule 2 and 3 chemicals 
were imported for retransfer and if it is assessed that there is an unacceptable risk the chemicals 
may be diverted to a chemical weapons programme, then the application to import would be 
declined.  
 
Authority for granting approval for the import of CWC Scheduled Chemicals rests with the Secretary 
of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Although there is no statutory right of administrative appeal against 
any of the decisions by the Secretary, applicants could s eek a judicial review of an administrative 
decision through the courts.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9.(a) Not applicable.  
 
(b) Not appl icable.  
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. Importers are require d to ensure full details of chemicals to be imported are provided, including 
the correct name, mixture weight/analysis breakdown and, if possible, CAS (Chemical Abstracts 
Service) number and the intended use of the chemicals.  Details of CWC Schedules of C hemicals 
(1-3) can be found on our website https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/trade/trading -weapons -and-
controlled -chemicals/h ow-to-import -or-export -controlled -chemicals/ together with more detailed 
information on the application procedure. Completed documents should be sent to fax 
+64 4 439 8519, or by email to exportcontrols@mfa t.govt.nz .   
 
11. Import Permit from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, New Zealand.  
 
12. There is no charge for the processing of import permits.  
 
13. Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. The period of validity of a license is 3 months after the licence has been issued. Extensions to 
import licences can be granted when an import does not fall within the usual 3 -month period, by 
applying to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, New Zeal and. G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
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  15. No, but the applicant must inform the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, New Zealand in 
writing if the actual quantity imported is less than that approved, or if the import does not take 
place.  
 
16. No. 
 
17. No. 
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. No – not from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, New Zealand. Some chemicals may 
constitute hazardous substances and could be required to comply with the Hazardous Substances 
and New Organisms (HSNO) Act 1996 and supporting regulat ions.  
 
19. Not applicable to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, New Zealand.  
 
3  CONTROLLED DRUGS  
Outline of Systems  
1. New Zealand is a party to the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs 1961 (the Convention) and 
the Convention on Psychotropic Substa nces 1971. The purpose of the conventions is to have single 
international treaties concerned with the control of narcotic drugs and the production of raw 
materials of narcotic drugs and similar international control of psychotropic substances. 
Both narcoti cs and psychotropic drugs are classified as Controlled Drugs in New Zealand under the 
Misuse of Drugs Act 1975 ("the Act"). Psychotropic substances include barbiturates and 
benzodiazepines and some non -medicinal substances such as LSD.  
 
The International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) monitors the compliance with the provisions of the 
conventions. The conventions set requirements for member countries with respect to regulatory 
provisions, reporting requirements and quotas.  
 
Importing and exporting of cont rolled drugs and psychotropics requires an import or export licence 
to be issued prior to the shipment of drugs entering or leaving New Zealand. Applications are 
submitted to the Medicines Control section of the Ministry of Health. Licences are issued for medicinal 
(human consumption/veterinary use), scientific (including analysis for law enforcement) or 
drug-detector training purposes only.  
 
A Licence to Deal in Controlled Drugs or a Licence to Possess Controlled Drugs or a Medicinal 
Cannabis Licence, or authorisation under the Act (e.g. a registered medical practitioner), is required 
before the issuance of licences to import or export control led drugs.  
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2. Import and export licensing is required for controlled drugs listed in Schedules 1, 2, 3 (excluding 
part 6) of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975. A Deal in Controlled Drugs or to Possess Controlled Drugs 
or a Medicinal Cannabis Licence under the Act is also required before an import licence can be issued, 
unless they are otherwise authorised by the Act (e.g. registered medical practitioners).  
 
3. The system applies to goods originating in and coming from all c ountries.  
 
4. Licensing is intended to restrict the quantity of imports to quotas issued by the INCB. The INCB 
administers a system of estimates for narcotic drugs and a voluntary assessment system for 
psychotropic substances. As a signatory to the convent ions no alternative methods are permissible.  
 
5.  The domestic law under which licensing is maintained is the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975 , the Misuse 
of Drugs Regulations 1977 , and the Misuse of Drugs (Medicinal Cannabis) Regulations 2019. 
The schedules of t he Act define the class of each controlled drug. All controlled drugs require import 
and export licences and licences to deal or possess or  a Medicinal Cannabis licence, or alternatively 
an authorisation within the Act. Part 2 of the Regulations covers the  requirements and issuance of 
licences under the Act.  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
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  Licensing is statutorily required and there is no administrative discretion as to the products to be 
subjected to licensing. There is also no discretion as to the quantity of controlled drugs to which t he 
licensing applies; there are no lower -limits or threshold levels for exemption from licensing. 
The legislation defines the restrictions applicable to drugs listed in each schedule to the Act. It is not 
possible for the government (or the executive branc h) to abolish the system without approval of the 
legislature.  
 
Procedures  
 
6.I Quotas (also known as 'estimates' and 'assessments')  for the import of controlled drugs can 
be viewed at the INCB website: www.incb.org . The Competent National Authorities (the 
authority responsible for administration of the regulatory regime in that country) are advised 
to check their quota status regularly online. Quotas are set for the country not for specific 
importers.  
 
II. Quotas are established on a yearly basis, running from 1 January - 31 December each year. 
The size (quantity in kilograms or grams) of a quota is determined by the stock on hand as of 
31 December each year as well as previous, current and projected con sumption. 
Supplementary quotas can be applied for from the INCB, if required, during the year. Licences 
are issued per consignment. Importers are required to apply for a licence every time they 
wish to import or export. Import and export licences are only valid for 6 months from the date 
of issue.  
 
III. Import licences are endorsed by New Zealand Customs Services at the time of Customs 
clearance at the New Zealand border. Another copy of the import licence is endorsed by the 
importing company/entity. These  copies of the licence are returned to Medicines Control and 
the information provided regarding the actual quantities imported is updated in databases. 
This information is relied on for reporting to the INCB of statistics of imports and exports on 
a quarte rly basis, as well as in the determination of consumption (within New Zealand) in 
collaboration with information on stocks held. Unused allocations cannot be rolled over into 
the next year. Licences cannot be used multiple times.  
 
IV. Applications are dema nd driven. Applications can be made at any time.  
 
V.      Medicines Control advises applicants to allow up to 30 working days for the processing of 
import applications. There may be delays in the processing of applications where the 
information provided is  inaccurate or incomplete, or if additional quota is required.  
 
VI.   An importation may be made as soon as the import licence is issued and the competent 
national authority in the country of export has issued the appropriate export 
authorisation/licence.  
 
VII.  Prospective importers can obtain application forms by requesting these from Medicines 
Control. These forms will be made available online in the near future. The issuance of licences 
is under the auspices of the Licensing Authority, Medicines Control , Ministry of Health. Where 
applicable, the Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines (ACVM) group is consulted 
on importations for veterinary controlled drugs. The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) may 
also be involved with the import of varieti es of plants prohibited under the Act which contain 
controlled drugs. Ministerial approval is necessary for the import and export of controlled 
drugs listed in schedule 1 (with the exception of cocaine), Part 1 and Part 2 of schedule 2 of 
the Act (excludin g morphine and opium) and Part 1 of schedule 3. Following the issuance of 
an import licence, the competent national authority of the country of export must be 
approached for an export licence/authorisation.  
 
VIII.   Applications are examined and processed on receipt. If the application exceeds the current 
quota, there will be a delay while extra quota is requested from the INCB. Generally extra 
quota is allowed as long as it can be justified by a licit purpose.  
 
IX. Competent national authorities in other countries that are signatories to the INCB Conventions 
require an import licence issued by New Zealand before exporting from their country.  
 G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
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  X.  The importing country is informed of the effect given by the exporting country by the transfer 
of the appropriate copies of standardised import and export licences required by the INCB for 
signatories to the conventions.  
 
XI.  Licences may be issued with an additional condition to reflect that the import is for re -export 
(or partial re -export). The INCB has advised that import licences issued with this condition 
should not be used in determination of compliance with quotas.  
 
7. The conventions place a quantitative limit on all controlled drugs imported, with the exception of 
a few substances which are classified as controlled drugs under the Act but are not controlled under 
INCB conventions.  
 
(a)  Not applicable.  
 
(b)  Not applicable.  
 
(c)  Not applicable.  
 
(d)  Not applicable.  
 
8. The most common reason for refusal is that the importer is not authorised to deal in controlled 
drugs in New Zealand. The reason for refusal is advised and an application form for an appropriate 
licence outlining the requirements for a licence may be provided if appropriate. Licences must be 
issued  prior to the arrival or exit of goods. Licences to import cannot be issued retrospectively.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
 
9.(a) The importation of controlled drugs operates under a restrictive system as required by the 
international conventions. Only importers with a Licence to Deal in Controlled Drugs, or a 
Licence to Possess Controlled Drugs, or an authorisation under the Act (e.g. a registered 
medical practitioner) are eligible to apply for import licences.  
 
(b)    Not applicable.  
 
Documentation and Other Requirement for Application for Licence  
 
10. A sample of an application for an import licence is provided. Applicants are occasionally requested 
to provide additional documentation depending on the nature and purpose of the importation 
(e.g. confirmation of ethics approval where the controlled drugs are being imported for a clinical 
trial).  
 
11. The export licence copy must accompany the goods across the border and match up with the 
import licence copy. Licences to imp ort (and export) are issued in quintuplicate. Each copy has a 
specific purpose as stated on the bottom of the copy and must be retained or forwarded to the 
appropriate authority.  
 
Original copy: licensee to forward to the exporter for presentation to the A uthorities in the 
country of export.  
Duplicate copy: New Zealand Customs to complete "Import Certification".  
Triplicate copy: Importer to complete "Importer's Certification".  
Quadruplicate: Importer's copy.  
Quintuplicate: Copy retained by the Ministry of Health.  
 
12. The fee for an import or export application is NZ $194.22 (inclusive of Goods and Services Tax). 
Up to 4 controlled drug preparations may be listed on one import or export application,  however 
these must all be within the same consignment.  
 
13. Payment in full is required prior to issuing of a licence. The fee is not refundable if an import or 
export licence expires.  
 G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
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  Conditions of Licensing  
14. An import or export licence is valid for 6 months from the date of issue. No extensions can be 
given.  
 
15. No.  
 
16. No.  
 
17.(a) The standard conditions on an import licence are:  
 
-  That the goods must be imported before the expiry date of 6 months from date of issue  
-  That the controlled drugs are only to  be used for medical, sc ientific or dog -training purposes 
only  
 
Other conditions that the Licensing Authority may deem necessary can be added to a licence  
 
(b) Not applicable/as above.  
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. Yes, the importer must have a Licence to Deal in Controlle d Drugs or a Licence to Possess 
Controlled Drugs or a Medicinal Cannabis licence or  be authorised to possess controlled drugs under 
the Act.  
 
19. Not applicable. A licence to import is issued to a New Zealand entity.  
 
4  CLUSTER MUNITIONS  
The Convention on Cluster Munitions, 2008, is implemented in New Zealand through the: Cluster 
Munitions Prohibition Act 2009 . 
 
Outline of Systems  
1. The Cluster Munitions Prohibition Act 2009 prohibits the import of all cluster munitions, except for 
cluster munitions to be used, developed, produced, otherwise acquired, possessed, retained, 
imported or exported for the purposes of developing, or training persons in, techniques of cluster 
munitions detection, clearance, deactivation, or destruction.  
 
Purposes a nd Coverage of Licensing  
2.(a) The Minister of Foreign Affairs may, by notice in writing, authorise cluster munitions to be 
used, developed, produced, otherwise acquired, possessed, retained, imported or exported 
for the purposes of developing, or training  persons in, techniques of cluster munitions 
detection, clearance, deactivation, or destruction.  
 
(b)  A cluster  munition  means a conventional munition that is designed to disperse or release 
explosive submunitions each weighing less than 20 kilograms and  
(i)  includes those explosive submunitions; but  
(ii)  does not include  
-  a mine; or  
-  a munition  or submunition that is designed:  
-  to dispense flares, smoke, pyrotechnics, or chaff; or  
-  to produce  electrical or electronic effects; or  
-  a munition t hat is designed exclusively for an air defence role; or  
-  a munition that, in order to avoid indiscriminate effects and the risks posed by 
unexploded submunitions, has all of the following characteristics:  
-  each munition contains fewer than 10 explosive  submunitions:  
-  each explosive submunition weighs more than 4 kilograms:  
-  each explosive submunition is designed to detect and engage a single 
target object:  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
- 10 - 
 
  -  each explosive submunition is equipped with an electronic self -destruction 
mechanism:  
-  each explosive submunition is equipped with an electronic self -deactivating  
feature.  
 
3. The system applies to goods originating in and coming from "all" countries.  
 
4. The system is designed to meet the requirements of the Convention by the restricting the quantity 
of cluster munitions imported to those required for the purposes of developing, or training persons 
in, techniques of cluster munitions detection, clearance, deactivation, or destruction. The Minister of 
Foreign Affairs must specif y, by notice in the Gazette , the number of cluster munitions determined 
by the Minister to be the number that, for the time being, are absolutely necessary for the purposes 
described above.  
 
5. The Cluster Munitions Prohibition Act 2009 prohibits the impo rt of all cluster munitions, except for 
those to be used, developed, produced, otherwise acquired, possessed, retained, imported or 
exported for the purposes of developing, or training persons in, techniques of cluster munition 
detection, clearance, deacti vation, or destruction.  
 
The licensing is statutorily required.  
 
The legislation does not leave designation of products to be subjected to licensing to administrative 
discretion (see answer to Q2 (i) above).  
 
It is not possible for the government (or the executive branch) to abolish the system without 
legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) Not applicable.  
 
(b) Not applicable. Those importing cluster munitions inadvertently could face prosecution.  
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) Not applicable.  
 
8. None. Although there is no statutory right of administrative appeal against any of the decisions 
by the Minister, applicants could seek a judicial review of an administrative decision through the 
courts.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9.(a)  Yes. 
 
(b)  Not applicable.  
 
Documentation and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. There are no specifically listed information requirements. Applicants would need to make a case 
to the Minister of Foreign Affairs for the importation of clu ster munitions in conformance with the 
stated exemptions outlined in the Cluster Munitions Prohibition Act 2009 , and provide relevant details 
around type, quantity, storage and ultimate disposal.  
 
11. Authorisation from the Minister of Foreign Affairs to i mport and designation by the Minister as 
an officer authorised to be in possession of anti -personnel mines as defined in the Cluster Munitions 
Prohibition Act 2009 . An import entry clearance would need to be completed with Customs before 
release of the goo ds.  
 G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
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  12. There are no administrative charges for the process of obtaining permission to import anti -
personnel mines.  
 
13. Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. There is no set period of validity for an approval to import. It is possible a period of validity could 
be specified at the time of approval by the Minister of Foreign Affairs.  
 
15. No.  
 
16. No. 
 
17. No, other than compliance with the Cluster Munitions P rohibition Act 2009.  
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. No. 
 
19. Not applicable.   
 
5  ENDANGERED, THREATENED SPECIES  
Outline of systems  
1. Under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), documentation is 
required for the import, export, re -export and introduction from the sea of species listed in its 
Appendices. The nature of permitting vari es depending on: the Appendix in which the species is 
listed; the age of the specimen; and the nature of the specimen (e.g. personal e ffects, scientific 
samples, etc.). All parts and derivatives of species are included. Permits are obtained from  the CITES 
Management Authority in each country.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. All parts and derivatives of species listed in the CITES Appendices.  
 
3. All Parties to the CITES Treaty.  Non-parties trading CITES listed species with CITES Parties are 
also required to use equivalent documentation.  
 
4. Licensing is intended to ensure that harvesting for trade does not impact the long -term sur vival 
of endangered species in the wild.  
 
5. In New Zealand, Trade in Endangered Species Act 1989.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable, as New Zealand does not have restrictions on quantity of imports.  
 
7. In New Zealand, we aim to process all permits within 2 0 working days (though it usually takes 
5-10 days). All CITES permits are granted by the Department of Conservation. Permit signatories 
must be lodged with the CITES Secretariat to ensure a system of checking veracity of permits 
(for example through signat ures).  
 
8. An application for a permit may be refused if criteria are not met. No applications have been 
declined due to other reasons.  
 
9. All persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply for permits.  
 G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
- 12 - 
 
  Documentational and other requirements fo r application for license  
10. Full information about the importer and the specimen to be traded is required. Application form 
is available here: www.doc.govt.nz/cites . 
 
11. Original permits must accompany the consignment, and are collected by the border control 
agency in the country of import.  
 
12. New Zealand fees are indicated on the webpage specified under question 10. If permits are 
required by other countries (for example in a situation where both import and export permits are 
required), applicants must pay those. Prices vary by country, so this  information is not available.  
 
13. Payment must be received before a permit can be issued.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. New Zealand permits cannot be extended, as they cannot be tampered with. CITES permits 
issued by the New Zealand CITES authorities ar e affixed with a holographic security stamp, so 
originals (not tampered with) must be used.  
 
15. There is no penalty for non -utilisation of a permit.  
 
16. Permits are non -transferable.  
 
17. Permit conditions are included with this document (general condi tions for all permits, special 
conditions for live bird exports).  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. None related to CITES requirements.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
6  AMMUNITION,  BLANK -FIRING GUNS, FIREARMS, AND  RESTRICTED WEAPONS  
Arms Act 1983 and Arms Regulati ons 1992  
 
Outline of Systems  
1. Applicants for a permit to import firearms, and parts thereof, restricted airguns, restricted 
weapons, blank -firing gun s and ammunition may apply direct to the National Firearms Permit Centre 
at Kapiti Arms Safety and Contro l Centre for the permit. Permits to import pistols, restricted 
weapons,  prohibited firearms, restricted a irguns, and prohibited ammunition are subject to a special 
reason.  The requirement for an import permit covers firearms,  including prohibited firearms , (most 
centrefire semi -automatic rifles and shotguns with detachable or large capacity magazines are 
prohib ited firearms), pistols , restricted weapons and parts thereof, prohibited magazines, airguns 
which mimic real firearms (r estricted airguns), pistol carbine conversion kits, blank -firing guns 
(including starting pistols) capable of being converted to a firearm, and ammunition.  
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2. The permitting regime applies to firearms (including prohibited firearms), pistols, restricted 
weapons, prohibited firearms, and parts thereof, prohibited magazines, restricted airguns, 
blank -firing guns and ammunition.  
 
3. The system applies to goods originating in and coming from all countries.  
 
4. The purpose is both the safe use and control of firearms and other weapons.  
 
5. Import permitting for firearms (etc.) is established by the Arms Act 1983 and Arms 
Regulations  1992. Certain organisations, including New Zealand Defence and Police are exempt from G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
- 13 - 
 
  the licensing regime and  may import firearms etc. direct if in the personal possession of a member 
of that organisation and for the purposes of that organisation.  
 
Procedures  
6. The importation of rimfire firearms is constrained by the approval of those firearms as being safe 
and having a valid civilian use in New Zealand, and by market forces. Importation of pistols, 
restricted weapons, prohibited firearms, prohibited magazines and prohibited parts, restricted 
airguns, and prohibited ammunition are constrained by the requirement for a "special reason".  
 
7.(a) A permit to import is required before the item lands in New Zealand. The only exception is 
where the individual has been unable to obtain a permit. This is only in exceptional 
circumstances.  
 
(b) Import permits may only be is sued to the holder of a firearms licence. Visitors may obtain a 
visitor's licence and permit to import (on demonstrating that they are fit and proper to possess 
firearms, and that they have been a bona fide shooter in their country of origin). Visitors mus t 
apply through an online application form direct to the National Firearms Permit Centre at Kapiti, 
28 working days ahead of arrival in New Zealand.  
 
(c)  Not applicable.  
 
(d) New Zealand Police manages the firearms import permit regime (see above).  
 
8. The application for a permit to import for items listed in 6 above may be refused at the discretion 
of Police. A reason is required to be provided and is subject to judicial review.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9.(a) Only the holder of a firearms licence may apply for a permit to import a firearm (etc.).  
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. The applicant is required to complete a standard form.  
 
11. The permit to import is required to be presented to the New Zealand  Customs Service.  
 
12. There is currently no charge.  
 
13. None.  
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. Permits to import firearms (etc.) are valid for one year from date of issue but apply to a single 
consignment or multiple consignment s provided the sec ond and later consignments arrive within a 
30-day period  of the first consignment  
 
15. No. – although the permit is now limited to a single consignment or multiple consignments if the 
second and later consignments arrive within 30 days of the first consign ment.  
 
16. The permit to import is personal to the person it is issued to.  
 
17. Conditions may be placed on the permit to import (for example, surrender of a worn part where 
the special reason relates to replacing a worn part of a prohibited firearm), or t he provision of a sample 
if the firearm had not previously been imported into New Zealand or in the case of a blank -firing gun 
is identified as able to be readily converted to a firearm.  
 
7  EXPLOSIVES  
Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 and various HSNO regulations  
 G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
- 14 - 
 
  Outline of Systems  
1. The Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Act 1996 is the legislation under which 
hazardous substances are regulated. Under the legislation all hazardous substances must be approved 
before they are manufactured in, imported to , or used in New Zealand. Approval and certificate 
holders in compliance with all conditions of their approvals may import, manufacture, or tranship 
the substances.   
 
There are a number of approval types with approvals being given  under different parts of the HSNO 
Act, however explosives may only be approved under Part 5 of the Act, which cover a single hazardous 
substance.  
 
Controls are applied on the use of the substance.  Applications can be made for the following approvals 
of hazardous substances:  
 
- Release approvals - pesticides, veterinary medicine and products not covered by group 
standard approvals;  
- Group standard approvals  - general and industrial use products with similar uses and hazards ; 
- Issuing a new group standard approval - for products with similar uses and hazards for which 
a group standard does not yet exist;  
- Emergency approvals  - to use a non -approved substance in an emergency situation or to use 
a substance in a way it is not approved for;  
- Containment a pprovals  - for use as an analytical standard, research and development, or for 
export only;  
- Transhipment approvals  – for the temporary entry of a hazardous  substance into New  Zealand 
for transhipment;  
- Import certificates for explosives - to import Class 1 substances into New Zealand ; 
- Approvals for fireworks  - for test cert ificates required for fireworks.  
 
The first three of these are generic a nd apply to the substance and all users may make use of the 
approval. The last five relate to a particular use/action and are held by individuals for a particular 
purpose that relates to the substance.  
 
The agency that administers the regulatory regime and which makes decisions on applications is the 
Environmental Protection Authority.  
 
In 2015 the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 amended the legislation regarding the use of 
hazardous substances in wor kplaces. These changes meant the regulatory provisions concerning the 
import of explosives have been changed but the requirements are largely identical to earlier rules.  
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2. All hazardous substances must be approved unde r the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms 
Act 1996 before they can be manufactured in New Zealand or imported into New Zealand. 
The approved explosives are specified in the Hazardous Substances (Fireworks, Safety Ammunition, 
and Other Explosives Transfe r) Regulations 2003   
http://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2003/0176/latest/DLM198682.html?search=ta_regu
lation_H_rc%40rinf%40rnif_an%40bn%40rn_25_a&p=1 ). Before a new explosive not covered by the 
Transfer Regulations can be granted an import certificate approval for the explosive would need to be 
sought under Part 5 of the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996.  
 
Import certificates are required for the import of approved explosives into New Zealand under the 
Hazardous Substances (Importers and Manufacturers Information) Amendment Notice 2017. This, and 
a later 2018 , amendment are included in the consol idated notice:  
https://www.epa.govt.nz/assets/Uploads/Documents/Haza rdous -Substances/EPA -
Notices/7246c7fa7e/Hazardous -Substances -Importers -and-Manufacturers -Notice -2018-
consolidated.pdf  
 
As a result of the 2018 Amendment, since 1 October 2018, an import certificate is only required for:  
- explosives  that require a controll ed substance licence under the Health and Safety at Work 
(Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
- 15 - 
 
  - retail fireworks, except novelty and noise -maker fireworks specified in regulation 4(2) of the 
Hazardous Substances (Fireworks) Regulations 2001, such as pa rty poppers and Christmas 
crackers.  
The Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations are available at: 
http://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/2017/0131/latest/DLM7309401.html?search=ta_reg
ulation_H_rc%40rinf%40rnif_an%40bn%40rn_25_a&p=2  
 
The requirement for import certificates covers all explosives as outlined in the Hazardous Substances 
(Fireworks, Safety Ammunition, and Other Explosives Transfer) Regulations 2003: except for the 
following:  
 
(a) pre-primed cartridges and primers, of class 1.4S ;  
(b)  airbag initiators and seatbelt pre -tensioners of classes 1.4G and 1.4S;   
(c)  cable cutters of class 1.4S (UN 0070) ;  
(d)  power device cartridges of class 1.4S (UN 0323) ;  
(e)  signal or shock tubes of class 1.4 (UN 0349) ;  
(f)  cassette degradation devices of class 1.4S (UN 0432) ; 
(g)  novelty and noise -maker fireworks specified in the Hazardous Substances (Fireworks) 
Regulations 2001.   
 
3. The Import Certificate for Explosives applies to the relevant goods originating from all countries.  
 
4. The purpose of the HSNO regulation of hazardous substances is to protect the environment and the 
health and safety of people and communities by preventing or managing the adverse effects of 
hazardous substances. A licensing system is used for only one area: explosives require an "Explosives 
Import Certificate" to be imported into New Zealand.  
 
The purpose of the Import Certificate for Explosives is to ensure that all explosives are recorded a nd 
documented. The Import Certificate is the first step in this recording for imported explosives. Once 
inside New Zealand, under the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017 
all explosives other than those listed exempt by Schedul e 26 of the regulations must be tracked.  
Domestically produced explosives are also tracked. The purpose of the tracking system is to ensure 
that the whereabouts of explosives can be traced so that only those able to have and use them have 
access to them.  
 
5. The requirement for an Import Certificate for Explosives is in the EPA 's Hazardous Substances 
Importers and Manufacturers Information Amendment Notice 2017 issued under the Hazardous 
Substances and New Organisms Act.   
https://www.epa.govt.nz/assets/Uploads/Documents/Hazardous -Substances/EPA -
Notices/Hazardous -Substances -Importers -and-Manufacturers -Information -Amendment -Notice -
2017.pdf  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) The import certificate must be applied for at least 10 working days before the arrival of the 
goods in New  Zealand.  
 
(b) No. 
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) Yes, a single organisation handles the application and approval process.  
 
8. The import certificate can be declined if there is not sufficient guarantee that the materials will be 
kept secure in transit  or after arrival, or there is insufficient evidence to link the goods to an existing 
approval as listed in the Hazardous Substances (Fireworks, Safety Ammunition, and Other Explosives 
Transfer)  Regulations 2003 . Applicants have the right to judicial review in the New Zealand judicial 
system if they wish to dispute the outcome of an application.  
 G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
- 16 - 
 
  Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Li cence  
9. Anyone (firm, organisation or person) can apply for an Import Certificate for Explosives. If the 
amount of explosive is over the threshold for a site before a test certificate is required under the Health 
and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017, then evidence must be shown that the 
site has a test certificate indicating it complies with storage requirements.  
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. Links from the webpage go to forms and guides relevant to import certificates for explosives:  
https://www.epa.govt.nz/industry -areas/hazardous -substances/making -an-application/explosives -
import -certificate/ . 
 
Evidence is ne eded of the site the explosives are to be stored in (or used) and of the person in charge 
of the explosives at this site.  
 
11. Documents required on importation are those required under the United Nations 
Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods , model regulations 17th revised edition. 
https://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/unrec/rev17/17files_e.html  
 
12. The full list of substance application fees is found on:  https://www.epa.govt.nz/applications -and-
permits/fees -and-charges/ . 
 
The fees for an import certificate for explosives and controlled substances licences are:  
 
Import certif icate for explosives  
 
Activity  Fee ($NZ, Goods and Services tax inclusive)  
Import certificate for explosives and fireworks under the 
Hazardous Substances (Importers and Manufacturers) 
Notice 2015                $575.00  
 
13. Payment in full is required upon application  submission . 
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. The Import Certificate for Explosives relates to a specific consignment . The Health and Safety at 
Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017 under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 r equire 
tracking of the substance (s) from here onwards.  
 
15. No. 
 
16. No. 
 
17. No. 
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. Not applicable.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
8  HAZARDOUS WASTES  
Outline of Systems  
1. Imports of waste classified as hazardous  or as coming from households  under the Imports and 
Exports (Restrictions) Prohibition Order (No 2) 2004 require consent from the Environmental Protection 
Authority. Consent is obtained through meeting the requirements of the Order and where proposed 
impor ts are in conformity with New Zealand 's obligations under the Basel Convention, the Waigani 
Convention and OECD Decision C(2001)107/Final on the Control of Transboundary Movements of 
Wastes Destined for Recovery Operations.  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
- 17 - 
 
  Purposes and Coverage of Licens ing 
2. As above.  
 
3. The system applies to goods originating in and coming from countries who are Parties to the Basel 
Convention, the Waigani Convention or the OECD Decision. Imports from non -Parties are prohibited.  
 
4. The purpose is to ensure environmen tally sound and efficient management of hazardous wastes 
and that transboundary movements are conducted in a manner which will protect human health and 
the environmental against the adverse effects which may result.  
 
5. Imports and Exports (Restrictions) A ct 1988, Imports and Exports (Restrictions) Prohibition Order 
(No. 2) 2004.   
 
Required to implement obligations under the Basel Convention on the Control of the Transboundary 
Movement of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal and the Waigani Convention to Ba n the Importation 
into Forum Island Countries of Hazardous and Radioactive Wastes and to Control the Transboundary 
Movement and Management of Hazardous Wastes within the South Pacific Region and the OECD 
Decision C(2001)107/Final on the Control of Transbou ndary Movements of Wastes Destined for 
Recovery Operations.  
 
"waste" and "hazardous waste" are defined in the Order.  
 
 It is not possible for the government (or the executive branch) to abolish the system without legislative 
approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable . 
 
7.(a) No set time limit, depends on timing of commercial arrangements. No ability to fast track a 
licence.   
 
(b) No. 
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) Yes - one single administrative organ.  
 
8. No additional reasons as to why a request would be refused. Judicial  review of  a decision is  the only 
course of appeal.  
 
The ability for the EPA to refuse to issue a permit is set under 3BC of the Imports and Exports 
(Restrictions) Act 1988. The EPA can refuse to grant a permit if the Authority is satisfied that : 
 
(a) The person who applied for the permit has been convicted of an offence against this Act or an 
offence involving a convention chemical or waste; or  
(b) The information provided by the person to the Authority is incorrect . 
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Lice nce 
9.(a) Not applicable.  
 
(b) All persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply.  
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. A guidance document and the application form for an import permit is provided on the EPA 
websi te:  
https://www.epa.govt.nz/industry -areas/hazardous -substances/hazardous -waste/importing -
hazardous -waste/  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
- 18 - 
 
  Documents the importer is req uired to supply with the application include a completed notification 
form, contract(s), insurance, evidence of environmentally sound management, reason for export.  
 
11. A permit issued by the Environmental Protection Authority containing a permit number.  
 
12. No. 
 
13. Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. The period of validity of a license is up to twelve months.  
 
15. No. 
 
16. No.  
 
17. Yes, determined on a case by case basis.  See 3BB of the Imports and Exports (Restrictions) Act 
1988 for the matters on which the EPA may impose conditions to address . 
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. The permit holder must provide movement forms that record the movement of the hazardous 
waste allowed for import or export on their permit at various stages durin g the life of the permit. This 
is covered by a condition on the permit issued by the EPA.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
9  GRAPHIC MATERIALS INTENDED FOR USE BY CHILDREN  
Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Act 1996 Graphic Materials Group Standard 
2018. 
 
Outline of Systems  
1. The Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Act 1996 was enacted to provide a 
comprehensive health, safety and environmental regulatory framework covering explosives, 
flammable, oxidising and corrosive substances, as well as thos e that are toxic to people and the 
environment. The purpose of the HSNO Act is: "to protect the environment, and the health and 
safety of people and communities, by preventing or managing the adverse effects of hazardous 
substances and new organisms".   
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2. Some graphic materials have been found to contain high concentrations of toxic elements and 
their compounds. The Graphic Materials Group Standard covers a number of different products, but 
crayons, finger paints and chi ldren's watercolour paints, specifically manufactured for use by children 
require evidence of compliance with the group standard for import into or manufacture in New 
Zealand.  
 
3. The system applies to goods originating in and coming from all countries.  
 
4. Young children are at greater risk of poisoning through ingestion of hazardous substances that 
may be contained in such products. These requirements on the importation of graphic materials are 
in place to reduce the risk of poisoning of young children.  
 
5. Under the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Act 1996 , the Graphic Materials 
Group Standard 2018 was issued to reduce the risk of poisoning of young children. 
The Environmental Protection Authority has adopted the limits that were specified in the old Toxic 
Substances Regulations. The Group Standard regulate s the maximum permissible levels of elements 
in imported and locally made graphic materials. Since June 2009, it has been an offence to import G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
- 19 - 
 
  or manufacture graphic materials in tended for use by children if they exceed  the maximum 
permissible metal limits set in the Group Standard.  
 
The import clearance under the Graphic Materials Group Standard is given by the EPA. U ntil 2017, it 
was given by the Medical officer of Health .   
 
Procedures  
6. Not Applicable.  
 
7.(a) Clearances of imported graphic material s for use by children  are managed by the EPA. 
Applications for the assessment of evidence of compliance with the Graphic Materials Group 
Standard  are sent to the EPA on the appropria te form. The written approval of the EPA is 
required before  goods are imported into New Zealand.  Importers or manufacturers are 
responsible to ensure that graphic materials are tested for element levels by an accredited 
laboratory. In New  Zealand, laborato ries are accredited by International Accreditation 
New Zealand (IANZ) who can provide contact details of accredited laboratories. Products being 
imported into New Zealand may be tested by overseas laboratories that are accredited by a 
body recognised by IA NZ. 
 
(b) No. Approval for clearance can be provided once the EPA is provided with evidence that imported 
graphic materials intended for use by children do not exceed the maximum permissible 
element limits set in the Group Standard.   
 
 Goods that arrive wi thout approval will be held at the border until the EPA has issued a 
clearance letter for NZ Customs .   
 
(c) There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which application for licence and/or 
importation may be made, other than applications generally being required to be submitted 
during normal business hours. Applicants should allow 10 working days for an application to 
be reviewed after all information has been received.   
 
(d) Consideration  of licence applications is effected by a single administrative organ, the EPA.  
 
8. No additional reasons as to why a request would be refused. Judicial review of a decision is the 
only course of appeal.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9. All persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply under non -restrictive systems.  
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. The information required for an application is a completed application form and evidence that 
imported or manufactured graphic materials intended for use by children do not exceed the 
maximum permissible metal limits set in the Group Standard. This may take the form of analytical 
results from New Zealand laboratories accredited by Interna tional Accreditation New  Zealand (IANZ) 
or from overseas laboratories that are accredited by a body recognised by IANZ. The documentation 
required is outline d in the application form:  
https://www.epa.govt.nz/assets/Uploads/Documents/Hazardous -
Substances/Forms/335f1e3d52/Graphic -materials -application -form.docx   
 
https://www.epa.govt.nz/industry -areas/hazardous -substances/making -an-application/graphic -
materials/  
 
11. To import graphic materials intended for use by children, importers must present NZ Custo ms with 
a clearance letter from the EPA containing a Customs clearance code specific to that consignment . 
 
12. There is no licensing fee or administrative charge.  
 
13. Not applicable.  
 G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
- 20 - 
 
  Conditions of Licensing  
14. The period of validity of a clearance code is for the specific consignment that has been approved.  
 
15. No. 
 
16. No as the approval is specific for each consignment.  
 
17. Not applicable – the clearance letter will not be issued until evidence is provided that imported 
graphic materials intended for use by children are in compliance with the requirements of the Graphic 
Materials Group Standard . 
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. Not applicable.  
 
19. Not applicab le. 
 
10  OFFENSIVE WEAPONS (KNIVES, BAYONETS, AND KNUCKLE DUSTERS)  
Outline of Systems  
1. The Customs Import Prohibition Order 2017 prohibits the importation of the offensive weapons 
listed below, except with the consent of: the Commissioner of Police, a Deputy  Commissioner of 
Police, the Manager: Arms control Service Centre; Response & Operations, New Zealand Police, or 
the National Manager Response & Operations, New Zealand Police.  
 
Applicants for a consent to import the above offensive weapons may apply to a Police Arms Officer 
or the Manager: Arms control Service Centre  Response & Operations, New Zealand Police.  
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2. The permitting regime applies to all of the offensive weapons listed below:  
 
Knuckledusters, knives incorporating knuckledusters, swordsticks (including, without limitation, any 
identifiable components of swordsticks), and any weapon disguised to give the appearance of 
another article.  
 
Any knife having a blade that opens automatically by hand pressure a pplied to a button, spring, or 
other device in or attached to the handle of the knife (sometimes known as a flick knife or flick gun).  
 
Any knife having a blade that is released from the handle or sheath by the force of gravity or the 
application of centri fugal force, and that, when released, is locked in place by means of a button, 
spring, lever, or other device (sometimes known as a gravity knife or butterfly knife).  
 
Any knife, with the exception of a folding pocketknife  with a blade less than 10 cm in l ength, that : 
 
(a)  is designed for ease of concealment on the person; or  
(b)  has a blade with at least 2 edges that is designed or suitable for stabbing or throwing 
(as opposed to cutting); or  
(c)  is a knife of any of the kinds sometimes known as a fist knife, gimlet knife, punch dagger , 
push dagger, push dirk, push knife, T -handled knife, or throwing knife , bayonets.  
3. The system applies to goods originating in and coming from all countries.  
4. The purpose is the control of offensive weapons.  
5. Customs Import Prohibition Order 2017 . G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
- 21 - 
 
  Procedures  
6. Controls on the importation of offensive weapons is not subject as to the quantity or value of the 
imports.  The importation of offensive weapons is constrained by the purpose for which the applicant 
wishes to possess the weapon, and their suitability to do so.  
 
7.(a) Permission to import is required before the offensive weapon is imported into New Zealand. 
Permission may only be issued on the basis of an application made in writing.  
 
(b) No. 
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) Yes, New Zealand  Police manages the offensive weapons import permit regime.  
 
8. The application for permission to import may be refused at the discretion of Police. A reason is 
required to be provided and is subject to judicial review.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9. Yes. Upon receiving an application in writing police consider the purpose for which the applicant 
wishes to import the weapon and their suitability to possess that weapon.  
   
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. The applicant is required to complete a standard form.  
 
11. The permission to import is required to be presented to the New Zealand  Customs Service.  
 
12. There is currently no charge.  
 
13. No. 
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. Permission to import offensive weapons is valid for one year from date of issue.  
 
15. No. 
 
16. The permission to import is personal to the person it is issued to.  
 
17. Conditions may be p laced on the permission to import.  
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. No. 
 
19. No. 
 
11  IMPORTS TO ANTARCTICA  
Antarctica (Environmental Protection) Act 1994  
 
Outline of Systems  
1. Under the Antarctica (Environmental Protection) Act 1994  and consistent with the requirements 
of the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty (the Madrid Protocol), the 
importation of certain items into Antarctica is restricted or prohibited.  
 
  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
- 22 - 
 
  This legislation applies:  
 
- to any person in  the Ross Dependency;  
- to any New Zealand citizen and to any person ordinarily resident in New Zealand;  
- to any person who is for the time being a member of, or responsible for organising, any 
expedition to Antarctica which is organised in New Zea land or  which proceeds from 
New Zealand as its final point of departure for Antarctica;  and 
- in respect of any act or omission occurring on board any ship or aircraft, to any person on 
board any  ship or aircraft that is:  
- a New Zealand ship or a New Zealand air craft; or  
- any other ship, whether registered or not and of whatever nationality, which proceeds 
from New Zealand as its final point of departure for Antarctica.  
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2. The import licensing system is implemented through the  Antarctica (Environmental Protection) 
Act 1994  which provides that:  
 
- No person shall introduce onto land or ice shelves or into water in Antarctica any species of 
animal, plant, or micro -organism not native to that area (s28(1) (e).  
 
- No person shall i mport any non -sterile soil into Antarctica – except in accordance with a permit 
issued under the Act (s28(1) (f).  
 
- No person shall import into Antarctica any dressed poultry knowing that an inspection in 
accordance with the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty reveals 
evidence of disease.  
 
- Permits to bring into Antarctica any animal, plant, o r micro -organism not native to Antarctica, 
or to import any non -sterile soil shall only be issued in accordance with and subject to the 
restrictions and conditions set out in Article 4 of Annex II to the Madrid Protocol and 
appendices to that Annex and sub ject to other conditions as the Minister considers appropriate 
and not inconsistent with the purposes and principles in section 9 of the Antarctica  
(Environmental Protection) Act 1994 . 
 
3. The system applies to goods from all countries.  
 
4. The above restr ictions have been put in place to implement the Protocol on Environmental 
Protection to the Antarctic Treaty . The objective of the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the 
Antarctic Treaty  is the comprehensive protection of the Antarctic environment and  its dependent 
and associated ecosystems.  
 
5. The permitting regime for Antarctic activities including the importation of certain goods as 
highlighted above is a statutory requirement. The Antarctica (Environmental Protection) Act 1994  
grants the Minister of Foreign Affairs the power to grant some permits with respect to proposed 
activities in Antarctica based on their likely impact on the Antarctic environment. Other permits 
require the approval of Antarctic Treaty Consultative Parties. The Antarctica (Env ironmental 
Protection) Act 1994  may not be repealed without legislative approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a) Persons proposing to undertake activities in Antarctica including those which may involve the 
importation of certain goods are encouraged to contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as early 
as possible to discuss their plans and no later than three months before the proposed activity 
is expected to start.  
 
(b) Permits cannot be granted immediately upon request. Permits should generally be obtained prior 
to activities being pursued in Antarctica. In exceptional circumstance permits can be issued 
retrospectiv ely.  
 G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
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  (c) Applicants are encouraged to seek permit before the end of September each year prior to the 
activity taking place but applications can be received through the year.   
 
(d) Permit applications are assessed by the Environment Division of the Minis try of Foreign Affairs 
who seek expert advice on the likely environmental impact of proposed activities and provide 
advice to the Minister of Foreign Affairs on whether to permit the activity and whether to  
impose conditions on the activity to protect the environment, and manage compliance, 
environmental monitoring and post -activity reporting. Applicants deal exclusively, with the 
Ministry of Foreign Affairs . 
 
8. The issuance or denial of a permit is based on the likely impact of the activity on the Antarctic 
Environment, and the reason for a decision or conveyed to the applicant. The applicants have 
recourse to judicial review of the decision under the Judicature Amendment Act 1972.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9.(a) Not applicable.  
 
(b) All persons to whom the Antarctica (Environmental Protection) Act 1994  applies are eligible 
to apply for a permit for a proposed activity in Antarctica. There is no fee.  
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. The appl icants are required to provide the following information:  
 
- A description of the proposed activity;  
- A statement as to the likely environmental impact of the proposed activity;  
- A statement as to whether the applicant is applying or has applied the envi ronmental; 
assessment procedures set out in Annex I of the Madrid Protocol to the activity;  
- The name and contact address in New Zealand of the person;  
- The number of person the in the expedition likely to carry out the activity;  
- The date and place of final departure from Antarctica;  
- Further information may be required to be submitted based on the initial evaluation of the 
proposed  activity.  
 
11. Permits are required to be carried at all times when undertaking approved activities.  
 
12. No fee is char ged. 
 
13. Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. The period of the permit depends upon the specific activity. Extensions to permits can be applied 
for by applicants.  
 
15. There is no penalty fee for not using a permit or portion of a permit.  
 
16. Permits are not transferable but can be varied by the addition or omission of persons covered.  
 
17. The Minister of Foreign Affairs can impose additional conditions on permits in order to minimise 
the effects of the activity on the Antarctic environment.  
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. There are no other a dministrative processes required.  
  
19. No applicable.  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
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  12  MARINE ANIMALS  
Outline of Systems  
1. The import and export of marine mammals (including marine mammal products) is governed by 
both CITES and the Marine Mammals Protection Act 1978 (sections 4(2), (5),  and (6)). A permit is 
required to hold any marine mammal (or marine mammal product) except in the circumstances set 
out in section 4(5) Marine Mammals Protection Act (MMPA), and any institution or individual wishing 
to export or import such material must apply for a permit from the Department of Conservation to 
do so. The Marine Mammals Protection Act specifies particular aspects that must be considered when 
assessing an application for such a permit, which include:   
 
- The need to conserve, protect, or m anage any marine mammal;   
- Any international agreement to which New Zealand is a party;   
- Any submissions received.  
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2. Permits to import/export issued under the Marine Mammals Protection Act include all live or dead 
marine mammals, and all marine mammal products (with the exception of marine mammal material 
being an ornament or an item for personal use or adornment made wholly or principally from any 
part or parts of a marine mammal, if the marine mammal product accom panies that person from or 
into New Zealand or comprises part of that person's belongings and was in existence in a similar 
form as at the commencement of this Act) (see s.4(5) MMPA).  
 
3. The system applies to goods originating in and coming from all countries.  
 
4. A function of the Department of Conservation, under the MMPA, is to protect, conserve and 
manage marine mammals in New Zealand and in New Zealand fisheries waters. The most effective 
way to manage and minimise human impact on marine mammals is through a permitting system.  
New Zealand has no specific quantity or value limits on the import/export of marine mammal 
material.  
 
5. Marine Mammals Protection Act 1978. The legislation would require amending to remove the 
requirement for import/export  permits. It is not possible to abolish the system without legislative 
approval.   
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable.  
 
7.(a)  At least 8 weeks is the minimum preferable.  
 
(b) No. 
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) Yes, applications can be dealt with under delegated authority from the Minister of Conservation 
by the Department of Conservation's staff.  
 
 DOC is the administering authority, but permit applications may require a statutory process 
of public consultation (28 days). Permit applications that relate to an emergency situatio n or 
to the taking of any marine mammal solely for the purposes of research may not require public 
consultation (at the discretion of the Minister) – see section 5(6) MMPA.  
 
8. There are no circumstances where a permit may be declined other than the criteria specified in 
the Marine Mammals Protection Act. Yes, reasons for refusal are given to the applicant.  Applicants 
have no right of appeal (see section 6 MMPA) but could apply for judicial review if administrative law 
failure present).  
   G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
- 25 - 
 
  Eligibilit y of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9.(a) Not applicable.  
 
(b) All persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply if they meet the criteria specified in the 
Marine Mammals Protection Act.  
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for L icence  
10. The applicant is required to provide the following:  
 
(a) The full name and address of the applicant, whether or not the applicant is a New Zealand 
citizen, and details of such qualifications and experience as the applicant considers will assist  
the Minister in his consideration of the application;  
 
(b) In the case of an intended research project, a full description of the project or programme in 
which the marine mammal to be taken will be used, a complete list of the sponsors or co -
operating in stitutions concerned with the project, and the names and qualifications of any 
scientists involved;  
 
(c) Where the marine mammal is for display or zoological purposes, details relating to the facilities 
where the mammal taken will be held or displayed or,  if a certificate has been issued in respect 
of any zoological garden pursuant to regulations made under section 25 of the Animals Act 
1967, details of the certificate;   
 
(d) Where a  marine mammal is to be captured, the number of persons to be involved, the 
population or area from which it is proposed to take the mammal, and details of the proposed 
methods of capture and transportation.  
 
11. CITES documentation and Marine Mammals Prot ection Act permit.  
 
12. Permit processing fees are applicable and vary among applications according to the work 
involved in permit processing, and whether the application would require gazettal. General power to 
charge fees given under section 60A -C Conser vation Act.  
 
13. On receipt of a permit application, DOC provides an estimate of the cost of permit processing to 
the applicant, and requires a lodging fee/deposit prior to initiating processing. DOC is able to waive 
the fees under certain circumstances.  
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. Varies among permits, and may be varied by permit amendment.  A permit may be extended 
by application to do so being granted by the Minister's delegate.  
 
15. No. 
 
16. Permits may be transferred to another person with the prior  consent of the Minister after an 
appropriate application. Such transfers are likely to be subject to conditions.  
 
17. Conditions may be prescribed as per section 7 of the Marine Mammals Protection Act.  
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. Not applicable.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
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  13  OZONE DEPLETING SUBSTANCES  
Outline of Systems  
1. Imports of ozone depleting substances and specified synthetic greenhouse gases controlled under 
the Ozone Layer Protection Act and Regulations 1996 require consent from the Environmental 
Protection Authority. How consent is obtained depends on the substance and/or intended use.  
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2. As above.  
 
3. The system applies to goods originating in and coming from countries who are Parties to the Montreal 
Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer and its various amendments.  
 
4. The purpose is to help protect human health and the environment from adve rse effects resulting or 
likely to result from human activities which modify or are likely to modify the ozone layer by phasing 
out ozone depleting substances as soon as possible except for essential uses and giving effect to 
New Zealand's obligations unde r the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol.  
 
5. Ozone Layer Protection Act 1996, Ozone Layer Protection Regulations 1996, required to implement 
obligations under the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol. Controlled ozone depleting 
substances  and products containing ozone depleting substances are listed in the Regulations and 
restrictions on these are also in the regulations. It is not possible for the government (or the executive 
branch) to abolish the system without legislative approval.  A 2019 amendment to the Regulations 
extended coverage to hydrofluorocarbons that are subject to the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal 
Protocol. From 1 January 2020 a permit  from the EPA will be required before bulk HFC can be imported , 
exported  or transhipped,  into or through  New Zealand.  
 
The Act:   
http://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1996/0040/l atest/DLM391469.html?search=ta_act_O_ac%
40ainf%40anif_an%40bn%40rn_25_a&p=3  
 
The Regulations:  
http://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/1996/0222/latest/DLM217751.html?search=ta_regu
lation_O_rc%40rinf%40rnif_an%40bn%40rn_25_a&p=1  
 
Procedures  
6.I. Information on formalities of filing applications for licences is published on the Environmental 
Protection Authority website.   
 
II. A quota system is to be used for imports for domestic use of bulk, new hydrofluorocarbons 
controlled by the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol from 1 January 2020. The regulations 
concerning permitting processes ca me into effect 18 February 2019 so that permits could be issued 
before 1 January 2020.  
 
The quota is in two pools and the size of these for each is prescribed in the regulations. The total 
available for allocation enables New Zealand to comply with the ph ase-down required by the Kigali 
Amendment. The first pool, grandparented , is reserved for those holding eligibility . Eligibility is based 
on the proportion of New Zealand imports that the importe r imported between January 2015 and 
December 2017 and the grandparented pool is allocated in the s ame prop ortions. A special pool is also 
available and allocation is made once a year for the following year 's allocation of this pool. Permits for 
the grandparented pool are for a calendar  year and these are issued prior to the beginning of the year; 
application close on 1 September for the following year. Applications for the special pool close 1 July. 
Permits issued a re valid from 1 January the following year and may be for  the duration o f one to three 
years.  
 
III. No. 
 G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
- 27 - 
 
  IV. The grandparented pool is open to application any  time before 1 September for the following 
year and the special pool is open for applications up to 1 July for the following year. Applications for 
special permits are a ll processed concurrently after the closing date for applications.  
 
V. The EPA has 40 working days in which to request further information if required . If all information 
is present and correct permits can be issued in a shorter time frame  after the closing of applications.  
 
VI. Permits can be used to import on the same day as issue  for permits other than permits for new, 
bulk HFCs. These HFC permits are valid from 1 January for each year.  
 
VII. Yes – one single administrative organ isation, the Environmental Protection Authority . 
 
VIII. Not applicable  except for HFCs. The grandfathered pool was allocated  in proportion to an 
importers imports of HFC s for the 2015, 2016 and 2017 calendar years. The special pool if allocated is 
allocated acco rding the energy efficiency and environmental advantages of the use and the possibility 
of adverse economic and social impacts if the application is refused , and the quantity of HFCs available 
for import in the pool .   
 
IX. Yes, import licenses are required, they are not issued automatically.  
 
X. Not applicable.  
 
XI. No. 
 
7.(a) No set time limit, depends on timing of commercial arrangements. No ability to fast tract a 
licence but import exemptions for e.g. inadvertency can be applied for up to 10 day s after arrival.  
 
(b) No. 
 
(c) No, except for HFC permits. Applications for permits for the following year close 1 July for the 
special pool and 1 September for the grandparented pool . 
 
(d) Yes - one single administrative organ isation , the Environmental Pr otection Authority . 
 
8. No additional reasons as to why a request would be refused.  Appeal against an adverse decision is 
possible to the High Court.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9.(a) Only those with entitlement can apply for permits for HFCs from the grand -parented pool. All 
persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply  for HFCs from the special pool.  
 
(b) All persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply.  
 
Documentatio nal and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. Requirements are set out in the Regulations and published on the website.  Documents the 
importer is required to supply vary with the substance to be imported.  
 
Regulations - 
http://www.legislation.govt.nz/regulation/public/1996/0222/latest/DLM217751.html?search=ta_regu
lation_O_rc%40rinf%40rni f_an%40bn%40rn_25_a&p=1  
 
Website giving requirements and application forms for hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs):  
https://www.epa.govt.nz/industry -areas/hazardous -substances/hfcs/types -of-permit/  
 
Website giving requirements and application forms for methyl bromide  and othe r ozone depleting 
substances (other than HFCs ): 
https://www.epa.govt.nz/industry -areas/ hazardous -substances/ozone -depleting -
substances/importing -or-exporting -ozone -depleting -substances -in-new-zealand/  
 
11. Letter from the Environmental Protection Authority containing a permit number.  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
- 28 - 
 
  12. No. 
 
13. Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. The period of validity of a license is either a calendar year or up to twelve months depending on 
the substance to be imported.  
 
15. Yes, permits can be cancelled for non -use. 
 
16. No.  
 
17. Yes, depending on the substance, determined on a case by case basis.  
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. No. 
19. N ot applicable.  
 
14  RADIOACTIVE SUBSTANCES  
Radiation Safety Act 2016 and Radiation Safety Regulations 2016  
Outline of Systems  
1. The Office of Radiation Safety (ORS) administers New Zealand's radiation safety legislation. 
The Radiation Safety Act 2016 (the Act) defines radioactive material and sets out the requirement 
for import consents. The Radiation Safety Regulations 2016 (the Regulations) specify exemptions 
from the requirement to obtain a n import consent.  
 
When a consent is issued, ORS also issues a permit number which the importer then provides to the 
New Zealand  Customs Service (NZCS) in order for the material to be imported. The issue of permit 
numbers on consents is not a legislative requirement, but is an arrangement made between ORS 
and NZCS for transborder monitoring purposes. NZCS provides a list of permit numbers generated 
by their system to ORS on a quarterly basis.  
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2. High -activity sealed radio active material (i .e. IAEA category 1 or 2), low -activity (i .e. IAEA 
category 3 - 5) sealed radioactivity material and low -activity unsealed radioactive material are the 
main product categories of the consent system. For the import of sealed radioactive ma terial, a 
single occasion i mport consent is issued. For low activity  unsealed radioactive material 
(e.g. radiopharmaceuticals), a consent that authorises more than one importation can be issued. 
The maximum consent term for all types is one year.  
 
3. The s ystem applies to goods originating in and coming from all countries.  
 
4. The consent system forms part of the national regulatory system designed to ensure as far as 
practicable the safety and security of radioactive sources.   
 
5. Section 13(c) of the Radiation Safety Act 2016 prohibits the importation of radioactive material 
without a consent. Regulations 10 to 12 of the Radiation Safety Regulations 2016 exempt specified 
material from consenting requirements and regulation 14 exempts imports where the material is 
immediately exported. There is no administrative discretion to amend these requirements. 
The executive cannot amend the requirements of the Act without legislative approval.  
 G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
- 29 - 
 
  Procedures  
6. I. For low activity  unsealed radioactive material, ther e is no quantitative limit on an overall 
amount, a condition  is imposed on allowed radioactivity levels for certain isotopes (A2 value) per 
consignment. This information is not published online. Please see below for the conditions.  
 
This consent does not authorise the sale of:  
 
1. natural uranium, depleted uranium (other than used in shielding or transport containers), 
thorium, Pu -239, U -233 or uranium enriched in the nuclides 235 or 233 ; or 
2. radioactive materials in any one consignment exceeding the  A2 values in the International 
Atomic Energy Agency Regulations for the Safe Transport of Radioactive Materials ( "the 
Regulations "); or 
3. radioactive materials in any one month exceeding two times the A2 values in the Regulations.  
Examples of A2 values a re (in TBq):  
- H-3: 40 C -14: 3 P -32: 0.5 P -33: 1 S -35: 3 Ca -45: 1 Cr -51: 30 Co -57: 10  
- Co-58: 1 Ga -67: 3 Se -75: 3 Sr -89: 0.6 Y -90: 0.3 Mo -99: 0.6 Tc -99m: 4 In -111: 3  
- I-123: 3 I -125: 3 I -131: 0.7 Xe -133: 10 Au -198: 0.6 Tl -201: 4 F -18: 0.6 Fe -55: 40 . 
 
II. The quotas are determined based on the allowed activity levels indicated in I. All consents are 
valid for 12 months from the date of issue.  
 
III. There are no limitations on granting consents for certain goods to domestic producers of like 
goods . Certain transactions can be traced by New Zealand Customs Services either by permit 
numbers or names of importers.  The Director for Radiation Safety may, for the purpose of the 
Radiation Safety Act 2016, disclose any information obtained or made available under Section 35  to 
any agency inside or outside New  Zealand.  
 
IV. Not applicable to radioactive material  
 
V. 3 - 10 working days  
 
VI. All consents are valid for 12  months from the date of issue.  
 
VII. Yes, if products only contain radioactive material. If a product contains a radioactive material 
and psychoactive substance, an applicant must approach the right organisation for a separate 
authorisation apart from a consent issued by ORS for a radioactive material.  
 
VIII. There is no maximum amount of consents allocated per applicant. The NZ regulator has been 
able to meet the demand for consents requested and the administrative procedure to process 
received ap plications is on the first come first served basis.   
 
IX. Not applicable  
 
X. Not applicable  
 
XI. No  
 
7.(a) 5-10 working days.  
 
(b) In exceptional circumstances, consent can be granted within a few hours following the receipt 
by ORS of an application and p ayment of the corresponding fee can be made after the issue 
of consent.  
 
(c) No. 
 
(d) Importers make a single application to ORS. In some cases,  ORS will seek a technical opinion 
from the Institute for Environmental Science and Research before issuing the consent. This is 
an internal process and does not require multiple approaches by the importer.  
 G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
- 30 - 
 
  8. Applications may be refused on security or safety grounds. Refusals are rare because most 
applications are for justified reasons. However,  in the case of a r efusal the reasons are given to the 
applicant. Section 48 of the Radiation Safety Act provides for appeals.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9.(a) Not applicable.  
 
(b)  Yes.  
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. The information required for applications and application forms are available from the Office of 
Radiation Safety.  
https://www.health.govt.nz/our -work/ionising -radiation -safety/buy -sell-and-import -export -
radiation -sources/import -or-export -radioactive -material  
 
11. Notification of arrival or departure of material – no prescribed form.  
 
12. For a single consignment consent to import of IAEA category 1 or 2 radioactive material - $300. 
For a single consignment import consent of IAEA category 3, 4 or 5 radioactive material - $80. For  an 
ongoing consent to import multiple consignments of unse aled radioactive material over a one -year 
period - $400.  
 
13. No.  
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. One year which cannot be extended.  
 
15. No.  
 
16. No.   
 
17.(a) Not applicable.  
 
(b) Yes. Quantitative restrictions apply to multiple consignment consents. Restri ctions are in the 
form of quarterly limits on the total activity of individual radionuclides imported.  
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. All persons who manage or control radioactive sources must have a source licence. The importer 
can only transfer mater ial to a person or organisation who holds such a licence.   
 
19. The payment of all fees is required to be in New Zealand dollars.  
15  PSYCHOACTIVE SUBSTANCES  
Outline of systems  
1. New Zealand regulates trade in psychoactive substances (that are otherwise unregulated) under 
the Psychoactive Substances Act 2013 (the Act). The purpose of the Act is to regulate the availability 
of psychoactive substances in New Zealand to protect the  health of, and minimise harm to, 
individuals who use psychoactive substances. For the purposes of the Act, a psychoactive substance 
is something that produces a psychoactive effect in an individual such as a high, euphoria, visions 
or changes to a person 's mood, when taken. The definition of a psychoactive substance includes the 
finished product. The Act does not control precursor substances. The New Zealand legislation to 
regulate rather than prohibit psychoactive substances is a world first.  
 
An importe r must hold a licence to import psychoactive substances. Licences to import are issued 
and authorised by the Psychoactive Substances Regulatory Authority (the Authority), which is part 
of the Ministry of Health. New Zealand does not require individual impo rts to be licensed, but each G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
- 31 - 
 
  import must be notified to the Psychoactive Substances Regulatory Authority before arriving in 
New Zealand. The Authority does not issue licences to export but psychoactive substances can only 
be exported by a person who holds a licence to import, manufacture, research or sell approved or 
unapproved psychoactive substances. Individual exports must be notified to the Authority 
beforehand.  
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2. The licensing regime applies to the importer of any s ubstance that may be used for a psychoactive 
effect, unless it is already regulated under another enactment.  
 
3. The system applies to goods originating in, and arriving from, all countries.  
 
4. Licensing is intended to ensure that psychoactive substances are only imported by persons with 
lawful reason to do so. The system is intended to reduce risks to the public by removing untested 
and potentially harmful products from being sold and introducing a pre -market approval scheme 
with testing requirements and retail restrictions for low -risk psychoactive substances. A restriction 
on using trials that involve animal testing to support a product approval application was introduced 
when the Act was amended in May 2014, this restriction has resulted in no products being approved 
under the Act.  
 
5. Licences are required by and  issued under the Act. The licensing provisions are set out in Part 2 
of the Act.  
 
The Act applies to all substances capable of inducing a psychoactive effect in a person, except 
substances already regulated such as alcohol, medicines, controlled drugs and foods.  
 
It is not possible for the government (or executive branch) to abolish the  system without legislative 
approval.  
 
Procedures  
6. Not applicable, there are no quantity restrictions on imports.  
 
7.(a) Licences must be held in advance of importation, and the importation must be notified to the 
Authority before imports arrive in New Zealand.  
 
(b) No. 
 
(c) To obtain an import licence, a person must submit an application  in the prescribed manner. 
There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which application for importation 
of a consignment may be made.   
 
(d) Licences are issued by the Authority. The Authority must be notified of individual shipments 
before they arrive in New Zealand. The Authority notifies the New Zealand Customs Service 
when informed of an import. The importer only has to approach the Authority.  
 
8. Licences may be refused if the application is incomplete or misleading, or if the applic ant is not a 
fit and proper person to hold a licence. Consideration of whether a person is fit and proper includes 
consideration of previous non -compliance, or likely future non -compliance, and relevant criminal 
history. If the Authority proposes to refuse  a licence it must inform the applicant of the reasons for 
the proposed refusal and provide a reasonable opportunity to respond. The applicant may appeal to 
the Psychoactive Substances Appeals Committee established under section 45 of the Act. Appeals 
are by way of rehearing.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for a Licence  
9. Any person (including bodies corporate) can apply for a licence to import. The application fee is 
$NZ2500 with an annual licensing levy of $NZ7 ,500. Licensed importers are listed on t he New 
Zealand Ministry of Health 's website at https://www.health.govt.nz/our -work/regulation -health-
and-disability -system/psychoactive -substances -regulation/licences -psychoactive -substances .    
 G/LIC/N/3/NZL/7  
 
- 32 - 
 
  Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
10. A copy of the licence application form can be found here: https://www.health.govt.nz/our -
work/regulation -health -and-disability -system/psychoactive -substances -regulation/how -get-licence .  
 
To support  the application, an applicant must provide:  
 
 - NZ Police vet request and consent form . The NZ Police vet and Australian History check form 
can be found in "Forms and Guides " at http://www.police.govt.nz/advice/businesses -and-
organisations/vetting/forms -and-guides  
- Copies of two forms of identification that have been witnessed and signed by a trusted referee  
- Referee 's contact details . 
 
11. Only the st andard Customs clearance documentation is required.  
 
12. The application fee for a licence to import is $NZ2 ,500 with an annual licensing levy of $NZ7 ,500. 
There is no charge for individual import clearance.  
 
13. Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of Licensing  
14. Licences are normally valid for 3 years but  may be renewed by submitting a new licence 
application to the Authority prior to expiry.  
 
15. No.  
 
16. No.  
 
17.(a) N/A – there are no quantitative restrictions on products.  
(b)  Section 17 of the Act places compulsory conditions on licences. For licences to import, these 
conditions are:  
• before each importation of a psychoactive substance by the licence holder ; 
o advise  the Authority of the importation; and  
o provide to the Authority particulars of — 
▪ the name and quantity of the psychoactive substance to be imported; and  
▪ the intended date of the importation.  
• every licence that the licence holder must — 
o keep, in a secure plac e at the licence holder 's place of business, any records required 
to be kept by the licence holder by the regulations; and  
o retain those records for the period of time prescribed in the regulations.  
• It is a condition of every licence that the licence holder  must, before each exportation of a 
psychoactive substance by the licence holder ; 
o advise the Authority of the exportation; and  
o provide to the Authority particulars of — 
▪ the name and quantity of the psychoactive substance to be exported; and  
▪ the intended dat e of the exportation.  
 
Under section 18 of the Act, the Authority may, when granting a licence, impose any other conditions 
on the licence in addition to a relevant condition specified in section 17 that the Authority thinks fit.  
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. No.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
 
__________