Import Health Standard  
 
Animal Fibre  
ANIFIBRE.ALL  
. 
 
An import health standard issued under  the Biosecurity Act 1993  Import Health Standard :  Animal Fibre  
 Draft  for Consultation  . 
Ministry for Primary Industries    Page  1 of 19 TITLE  
Import Health Standard :  Animal Fibre  
COMMENCEMEN T 
This import health s tandard  comes into force on … 2015. 
REVOCATION  
This import health standard  revokes and replaces Animal Fibre (ANIFIBRE.ALL dated 25 September 2015 ). 
ISSUING AUTHORITY  
This import health s tandard  is issued under section 24A of the Biosecurity Act 1993.  
 
Dated at Wellington this    day of   2015  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Howard Pharo  
Manager, Import and Export Animals  
Ministry for Primary Industries  
(acting under delegated authority of the Director General)  
 
 
Contact for further information  
Ministry for Primary Industries  (MPI)  
Regulation & Assurance  
Animal Imports  
PO Box 2526   
Wellington 6140  
Email:  animalimports@mpi.govt.nz  
 
 
 
 Import Health Standard :  Animal Fibre  
 Draft  for Consultation  . 
Ministry for Primary Industries    Page  2 of 19 Contents  Page 
Introduction  3 
Part 1:  General Requirements  5 
1.1 Application  5 
1.2 Incorporation of material by refer ence  5 
1.3 Definitions  5 
1.4 Packaging  6 
1.5 Import permi t 6 
1.6 The documentation that must accompany goods  6 
1.7 Transitional facility  7 
1.8 Biosecurity clearance  7 
Part 2:  Specified Requirements for Identified Risk Organisms  8 
2.1 Unprocessed (greasy) animal fibre from specified ruminants  8 
2.2 Scoured -only animal fibre from specified ruminants  9 
2.3 Scoured and carded animal fibre fr om specified ruminants  9 
2.4 Scoured and dyed (and carded) animal fibre from specified ruminants  10 
2.5 Third country processing of specified ruminant fibre  10 
2.6 Private consignments (less than 20 kg) of animal fibre from specified ruminants  11 
2.7 Kangaroo, wallaby and possum fibre  12 
2.8 Rabbit fibre  12 
2.9 Mink fibre  13 
2.10  Bristles and hair  13 
2.11  Feathers  14 
2.12  Wool grea se and lanolin  14 
2.13  Other products from animal fibre  14 
2.14  Empty used wool packs  15 
2.15  New Zealand returning fibre  15 
Schedule 1 – Document History  16 
Schedule 2 – Definitions  17 
Schedule 3 – Processing Requirements at the Transitional Facility  19 
 
 
 Import Health Standard :  Animal Fibre  
 Draft  for Consultation  . 
Ministry for Primary Industries    Page  3 of 19 Introduction  
This introduction is not part of the import health standard  (IHS) , but is intended to indicate its general effect.  
Purpose  
(1) This IHS specifies  the minimum requirements that must be met when importing  animal fibre into New 
Zealand.  
Backgro und 
(1) The Biosecuri ty Act 1993 (the Act) provides the legal basis for excluding, eradicating and effectively 
managing pests and unwanted organisms.  
(2) IHSs  issued under the Act set out requirements to be met to effectively manage biosecurity risks 
associated with importing good s. Where possible, consignments of animal fibre imported into New 
Zealand will be officially certified as originating from countries or areas that are free from risk 
organisms associated with the species of origin.  
(3) Where disease freedom associated from risk organisms with the species of origin cannot be attested to 
by the exporting country , consignments of animal fibre imported into New Zealand will be processed to 
effectively manage the risk of introducing viable risk organisms associated with the species of origin. 
These  requirements may be met in the exporting country, during transit, and during importation, before 
biosecurity clearance can be given.  
(4) A guidance document accompanies this IHS providing information on how the requirements may be 
met. 
Who should read this import health standard ? 
(1) This IHS applies  to importers of eligible consignments of animal fibre  and to producers of animal fibre 
for export to New Zealand . 
Why is this important ? 
(1) It is the importer’s responsibility to ensure the requirements of this IHS are met. Consignments that do 
not comply with the requirements of this IHS may not be cleared for entry into New Zealand and/or 
further information may be sought from importers. Consignments that do not comply with the 
requirements  of this IHS may be re -shipped or destroyed under the Act or treated in accordance with 
this IHS prior to release or equivalence being determined. Importers are liable for all associated 
expenses.  
See guidance document for more information about importer responsibilities  
Equivalence  
(1) The Chief Technical Officer (CTO) may approve measures under section 27(1)(d) of the Act, different 
from those set out in this IHS, that may be applied to effectively manage risks associated with 
importation of animal fibre.  If an equivalence measure is approved a n import permit  may be issued 
under section 24D(2) of the Act, if the Director -General considers it appropriate to do so.  
 See guidance document for more information about equivalence and permits.  
Document his tory 
(1) Refer to Schedule 1.  Import Health Standard :  Animal Fibre  
 Draft  for Consultation  . 
Ministry for Primary Industries    Page  4 of 19 Other information  
(1) This is not an exhaustive list of compliance requirements and it is the importer’s responsibility to be 
familiar with and comply with all New Zealand laws.  
Animal Products Act 1999  
(2) Commercial consignments of prod ucts imported into New Zealand must comply with relevant 
requirements of the Animal Products Act 1999.  
CITES  
(3) It is the responsibility of the importer to ensure that the consignment is accompanied by a permit to 
export as required by the legislation of the country of origin and the Convention on the International 
Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) http://www.cites.org .  
(4) The importer is advised to clarify the status of the species of animal in relation to international 
agreements on their trade, prior to export. Material arriving in New Zealand without the relevant CITES 
permits may be subject to seizure by the New Zealand Department of Conservation.  
Note : Any requirement for CITES or other conservation -related documentati on must b e met by the 
exporter/importer.  Import Health Standard :  Animal Fibre  
 Draft  for Consultation  . 
Ministry for Primary Industries    Page  5 of 19 Part 1:  General Requirements  
1.1 Application  
(1) This IHS applies to all importers of animal fibre eligible for import into New Zealand.  
(2) The following products are eligible for importation under this IHS:  
a) Ruminant fibre (e.g. wool, mohair, cashmere, alpaca, llama, yak).  
b) Macropod fibre (e.g. kangaroo and wallaby).  
c) Possum fibre.  
d) Rabbit fibre (e.g. angora) . 
e) Mink fibre.  
f) Bristles and hair.  
g) Feathers.  
h) Wool grease and lanolin.  
i) Raw/unreeled silk.  
j) Manufactured items from animal fibre.  
k) Empty used wool packs.  
l) New Zealand returning fibre.  
(3) The following products are not eligible for importation under this IHS:  
a) Hides and skins.  
b) Ornamental animal products.  
c) Deer or elk velvet for human consumption.  
1.2 Incorporation of material by reference  
(1) The following international standards are  incorporated by reference in this IHS under section 142M of 
the Act:  
a) The OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code  (the Code ).  
(2) The following material is  incorporated by reference in this IHS under section 142M of the Act:  
a) MPI Approved Diagnostic Tests, Vaccines, Treatments and Post -Arrival Testing Laboratories for 
Animal Import Health Standards  (MPI-STD-TVTL ). 
b) MPI Appr oved Biosecurity Treatments  (MPI-STD-ABTRT ). 
c) MPI List of FMD -Free Countries and Zones . 
(3) Under section 142O(3) of the Act it is declared that section 142O(1) does not apply, that is, a notice 
under section 142O(2) of the Act is not required to be published before material that amends or 
replaces the above listed standards, guideline or lists has legal effect as part of these documents.  
See guidance document for more information about incorporation by reference and section 142O(1).  
1.3 Definitions  
(1) For the purposes of this IHS, terms used that are defined in the Act have the meanings set out there. 
The Act is available at the following website: http://www.legislation.govt.nz/ . 
(2) Refer to Schedule 2 for other applicable definitions.  Import Health Standard :  Animal Fibre  
 Draft  for Consultation  . 
Ministry for Primary Industries    Page  6 of 19 1.4 Packaging  
(1) The consignment must be clearly identified and identifiable to the veterinary certificate.  
(2) The packaging of all commercial consignments of animal fibre imported into New Zealand must be 
clean  and secure . 
(3) The criteria to be applied to dete rmine wh ether the outcome in clause ( 2) has been achieved are as 
follows:  
a) Exterior of package is  free from any organic contaminants.  
b) Fibre is adequately contained.  
1.5 Import permit  
(1) An import permit  under section 24D of the Act is required if : 
a) It is required  in this IHS. 
b) Prior to import, a CTO has approved an equivalent measure under section 27(1)(d) of the Act 
that is different from those in this IHS that may be applied to effectively manage risks.  
(2) A permit is not required if, prior to import, a CTO has approved an e quivalent measure under section 
27(1)(d) of the Act that is different from those in this IHS in the form of a negotiated veterinary 
certificate.  
See guidance document for more information about applying for a permit, equivalence and 
country -specific veterinary certificate.  
1.6 The documentation that must accompany goods  
(1) The consignment must arrive in New Zealand with the following:   
a) An import permit (copy acceptable)  issued by MPI, where  required in this IHS. The importer must 
supply the following informa tion to obtain a permit:  
i) The name and address of the exporter.  
ii) The date of proposed importation.  
iii) The name and address of the transitional facility in New Zealand to which the consignment 
is to proceed following importation.  
iv) The port of arrival, and route and means of transport to the transitional facility.  
b) A veterinary certificate where required  in this IHS, that must include the following:  
i) A unique consignment identifier.  
ii) The d escription,  species, and amount of product.  
iii) The c ountry of origin (or zone as d efined by the Code ). 
iv) The n ame and address of the importer (cons ignee) and exporter (consignor).  
v) The name, signature and contact detai ls of the Official Veterinarian.  
vi) Certification and endorsement by the Official Veterinarian that the general requirements 
outlined in Part 1 of this IHS have been met.  
vii) Certification and endorsement by the Official Veterinarian that the specified requirements  
outlined in Part 2 of this IHS  have been met . 
c) A manufacturer’s declaration where required in this IHS . The statements contained in the 
manufacturer’s declaration may also be attested to on a veterinary certificate. The manufacturer’s 
declaration  must : 
i) Be prepared by the manufacturer on letterhead paper.  
ii) Be signed and dated by the quality manager or equivalent.  Import Health Standard :  Animal Fibre  
 Draft  for Consultation  . 
Ministry for Primary Industries    Page  7 of 19 iii) Contain the  correct statements as required by the import requirements  specific to the 
product . 
(2) Where equivalent measures have been negotiated and agreed with MPI, and a CTO has, prior to 
import, approved an equivalent measure under section 27(1)(d) of the Act that is  different from those in 
this IHS in the form of a negotiated veterinary certificate,  a country -specific veterinary certificate must 
accompany the consignment . 
See guidance document for more information about equivalence  and country -specific veterinary 
certificates .  
(3) All documents  must:  
a) Be origin al, unless otherwise stated.  
b) Accompany the imported goods.  
c) Be in English or have an English translatio n that is clear and legible.  
d) Be endorsed on every page by the Official Veterinarian with their original stamp, s ignature and 
date or be endorsed in the space allocated and all pages have paper base d alternative security 
features.  
1.7 Transitional facility  
(1) Following biosecurity authorisation being given, the animal fibre (where applicable)  must proceed 
directly to the transitional facility  named on the import permit . 
(2) The consignment must meet  all the requirements noted in the  General Requirements in Part 1 and 
must  be processed to the requirements in Part 2 (Specified Requirements) and in Schedule  3 
Processing Requirements at the Transitional Facility  of this IHS  in order to be eligible for biosecurity 
clearance . 
1.8 Biosecurity clearance  
(1) A biosecurity clearance, under section 26 of the Act, may be issued when each consignment of animal 
fibre meets all the requirements of this IHS, provided th e applicable requirements of  section 27 of the 
Act are  met. Import Health Standard :  Animal Fibre  
 Draft  for Consultation  . 
Ministry for Primary Industries    Page  8 of 19 Part 2:  Specified Requirements for Identified Risk Organisms  
2.1 Unprocessed (greasy) animal fibre from specified ruminants  
2.1.1 Documentation  
(1) Consignments of unpr ocessed (greasy) animal fibre from specified ruminants must be accompanied by 
the following documentation:  
a) A valid import permit . 
b) An original veterinary certificate certifying that the fibre meets the s pecific requirements of clause 
2.1.2(1) of this IHS. 
2.1.2 Requirements  
(1) Consignments of unprocessed (greasy) animal fibre from specified ruminants must meet the 
requirements for all of the following specified risk organisms:  
a) Anthrax:  
i) Fibre meets the Code  recommendations for the importation of wool; or  
ii) Fibre is der ived from animals that have been slaughtered to produce meat for human 
consumption and that come from establishments that are not under movement restrictions 
for the control of anthrax and where no case of anthrax has occurred during the 20 days 
prior to s hipment; or  
iii) Fibre is derived from an anthrax -free area; or  
iv) Fibre has been treated by immersion in hot water at 90˚C for 45 minutes, 95˚C for 25 
minutes or 100˚C for 15 minutes ; or 
b) Foot and mouth disease (FMD):  
i) Fibre  originates from a country or zone that is officially free from FMD  in accordance with 
the Code and as referenced in the MPI List of FMD -Free Countries and Zones ; or 
ii) Fibre originates  from animals resident in a zone in which no case of FMD has occurred 
within a 10 km radius within the last 30 days and f rom holdings that have been FMD -free 
for the previous three months; and  
1) Has been  at least four weeks in transit to New Zealand or ha s been stored for at 
least four weeks; or  
iii) Fibre has been fumigated with formalin in accordance with the Code . 
c) Lumpy skin disease (LSD) and sheep and goat pox virus:  
i) Fibre originates from a country  or zone  that has been  free from LSD and sheep and goat 
pox for at least the past three  years in accordance with the Code .  
 
Note : Certification for LSD only applies to fibre from cattle and water buffalo es. 
Certification for sheep and goat pox only applies to fibre from sheep and goats . 
(2) Unprocessed fibre must be directed to a transitional facility for processing to mitiga te risks of all other 
organisms,  by either : 
a) Scouring and dyeing:  
i) Commercial aqueous scouring (at 60-70˚C  for at least  three  minutes) ; and  
ii) Hot water dyeing (at 85-100˚C for at least  one hour);  or 
b) Scouring and carding:  
i) Commercial aqueous scouring  (at 60-70˚C for at lea st three  minutes) ; and  Import Health Standard :  Animal Fibre  
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Ministry for Primary Industries    Page  9 of 19 ii) After scouring fibre is subjected to : 
1) Washing in water at a temperature of at least 75˚C  for at least one minute ; or 
2) Drying at a temperature of at least 70˚C  for at least two  minutes ; and  
iii) Processing  to remove seeds and plant material by:  
1) Carding and combing; or  
2) Carding using a carding machine incorporating a high pressure crushing roller; or  
3) Acid carbonising.  
2.2 Scoured -only animal fibre from specified ruminants  
2.2.1 Documentation  
(1) Consignments of scoured -only animal fibre from specified ruminants must be accompanied by the 
following documentation:  
a) A valid import permit . 
b) An original veterinary certificate certifying that the fibre meets the s pecific requirements of clause 
2.2.2(1) of this IHS. 
c) A manufacture r’s or fibre certifier’s declaration that the fibre has been treated in accordance with 
clause 2.2.2(1)(b) of this IHS. 
2.2.2 Requirements  
(1) Consignments of scoured -only animal fibre from specified ruminants must meet the following 
requirements:  
a) Anthrax  requiremen ts in accordance with clause 2.1.2(1)  of this IHS. 
b) Fibre must be  processed in the following manner:  
i) Commercially scoured ( aqueous scouring at 60-70˚C for at least three  minutes ); and  
ii) After scouring fibre  is:  
1) Washed in water at a temperature of at least 75˚C  for at least one minute ; or 
2) Dried at a temperature of at least 70˚C for at least two minutes.  
(2) The scoured fibre must be directed to a transitional facility for further processing to remove seeds and 
plant material using one of the following methods:  
a) Hot water dyeing  (at 85-100˚C for at least one hour) ; or 
b) Carding and combing; or  
c) Carding using a carding machine incorporating a high pressure crushing roller; or  
d) Acid carbonising.  
2.3 Scoured and carded animal fibre from specified ruminants  
2.3.1 Documentation  
(1) Consignments of scoured and carded animal fibre from specified ruminants must be accompanied by 
the following documentation:  
a) An original veterinary certificate certifying that the fibre meets the specific requirements of clause 
2.3.2 of this IHS.  
b) A manufacturer’s or fibre certifier’s declaration that the fibre has been treated in accordance with 
clause 2.3.2(1)(b) of this IHS. Import Health Standard :  Animal Fibre  
 Draft  for Consultation  . 
Ministry for Primary Industries    Page  10 of 19 2.3.2 Requirements  
(1) Consignments of scoured and carded animal fibre from specified ruminants must meet the following 
requirements:  
a) Anthrax  requirements in accordance with clause 2.1.2(1)  of this IHS.  
b) Fibre must be  processed in the following manner:  
i) Commercially scoured ( aqueous scouring at 60-70˚C for at least three  minutes ); and  
ii) After scouring fibre is : 
1) Washed in water at a temperature of at least 75˚C  for at least one minute ; or 
2) Dried at a temperature of at least 70˚C for at least two minutes ; and  
iii) Process ed to remove seeds and plant material by:  
1) Carding and combing; or  
2) Carding  using a carding machine incorporating a high pr essure crushing roller; or  
3) Acid carbonising . 
2.4 Scoured and dyed (and  carded) animal fibre from specified 
ruminants  
2.4.1 Documentation  
(1) Consignments of scoured and dyed (and  carded) animal fibre from specified ruminants must be 
accompanied by the following document ation:  
a) A government endorsed manufacturer’s  declaration  certifying that the fibre has been treated in 
accordance with clause 2.4.2 of this IHS. 
2.4.2 Requirements  
(1) Fibre must be  processed in the following manner:  
a) Commercially scoured ( aqueous scouring at 60-70˚C for at least three  minutes ); and  
b) Hot water dyed  (at 85-100˚C for at least one hour) . 
2.5 Third country processing of specified ruminant fibre  
(1) Specified r uminant fibre that has been processed in a third country (i.e. other than New Zealand) can 
be imported into New Zealand.  
2.5.1 Documentation  
(1) Consignments of specified ruminant fibre that has been processed in a third country must be 
accompanied by the following documentation:  
a) An import permit is required for fibre authorised to be moved to a transitional facility  for further 
processing.  
b) An original veterinary certificate (or certified copy) from the country in which the fibre originated 
that certifies that the fibre meets the anthrax requirements of clause 2.1.2(1)  of this IHS. 
c) A government -endorsed manufacturer’s  declaration from the third country that links the fibre to 
the veterinary certificate and certifies that  the fibre has been treated in accordance with  clause 
2.5.2(1 )(b) of this IHS. Import Health Standard :  Animal Fibre  
 Draft  for Consultation  . 
Ministry for Primary Industries    Page  11 of 19 2.5.2 Requirements  
(1) Consignments of specified  ruminant fibre that has been proc essed in a third country must meet the 
following requirements:  
a) Anthrax  requirements in accordance with clause 2.1.2(1)  of this IHS.  
b) Fibre must be  processed in the following manner:  
i) Commercially scoured  (aqueous scouring at 60-70˚C for at least three  minutes ); and  
ii) After scouring fibre is : 
1) Washed in water at a temperature of at least 75˚C  for at least one minute ; or 
2) Dried at a temperature of at least 70˚C for at least two minutes ; and  
iii) Process ed to remove seeds and plant material by:  
1) Carding and combin g; or 
2) Carding  using a carding machine incorporating a high pressure crushing roller; or  
3) Acid carbonising . 
(2) If the scoured fibre has not been processed to remove seeds and plant material  prior to import , it may 
be authorised to be moved to a transitional fac ility for treatment in accordance with subclause 1(b)(iii) 
above.  
Note: Subclause 1(b)(iii) does not need to be declared  on the manufacturer’s declaration for scoured 
fibre being  directed to a transitional facility to remove seeds and plant material.    
2.6 Privat e consignments (less than 20 kg ) of animal fibre from 
specified ruminants  
2.6.1 Documentation  
(1) No documentation is required.  
2.6.2 Requirements  
(1) Private consignments of animal fibre of less than 20 kg are eligible for  biosecurity clearance if they 
have  been washed  and spun into yarn, provided that on inspection they are  free from visible 
contamination.  
(2) Visibly contaminated or unprocessed fibre must be authorised to  be moved to  a transitional facility and 
treated in the following manner:   
a) Removal of visible contami nation (e.g. faeces, seeds, etc) . 
b) Fibre is: 
i) Gamma irradiated  at a dose of 25 kGy or 2.5 Mrad; or  
ii) Autoclaved at 120˚C for at least 30 minutes ; or 
iii) Heated to 85˚C at 40% relative humidity for at least 15 hours; or  
iv) Fumigated with formalin (37% formaldehyde) at  a rate of 50 ml/m3 mixed with potassium 
permanganate at a concentration of 35 g/m3 at 80 -90% humidity in a sealed container for 
24 hours in accordance with the Code . (Note : This option is only for fibre with no 
embedded seeds .) 
c) If live insects are present  and the fibre h as not been heat treated as described in subclause  
2(b)(ii) and (iii) above , then fibre must be treated in a manner consistent with MPI Approved 
Biosecurity Treatments (MPI-STD-ABTRT ) standard  to eliminate insects . Import Health Standard :  Animal Fibre  
 Draft  for Consultation  . 
Ministry for Primary Industries    Page  12 of 19 2.7 Kangaroo, wallaby and possum  fibre  
2.7.1 Documentation  
(1) Consignments of kangaroo, wallaby and possum fibre must be accompanied by the following 
documentation:  
a) An import permit is required for fibre authorised to be moved to a transitional facility for further 
processing.  
b) An original veterinary certificate certifying that the fibre meets the specific requirements of clause 
2.7.2(1) of this IHS. 
c) A manufacturer’s or fibre certifier’s declaration that the fibre has been treated in accordance with 
clause 2.7.2(1)(b) of this IHS ( if applicable) . 
2.7.2 Requirements  
(1) Consignments of kangaroo, wallaby and possum fibre must meet the following requirements : 
a) Anthrax:  
i) Fibre is derived from animals that have been slaughtered to produce meat for human 
consumption and come from establishments that are not under movement restrictions for 
the control of anthrax and where no case of anthrax has occurred  during the 20 days prior 
to shipment; or  
ii) Fibre is derived from an anthrax -free area; or  
iii) Fibre has been  treated by immersion in hot water at 90˚C for 45 minutes, 95˚C for 25 
minutes or 100˚C for 15 minutes.  
b) If the fibre has not been immersed in hot water i n accordance with subclause  1(a)(iii) above,  then 
the fibre must be washed in the following manner:  
i) Washed in water  heated to a temperature of at least 75°C for at least five minutes, in the 
presence of a non -ionic detergent at a concentration of at least 1g per litre; or  
ii) Commercially scoured (aqueous scouring at 60 -70°C for at least three  minutes) and then 
dried at a temperature of at least 70°C for at least two minutes . 
(2) Alternatively fibre may be authorised to be moved to a transitional facility for treat ment in accordance 
with clause 2 .7.2(1)(b). 
2.8 Rabbit fibre  
2.8.1 Documentation  
(1) Consignments of rabbit fibre must be accompanied by the following documentation:  
a) An import permit is required for fibre authorised to be moved to a transitional facility for further 
processing.  
b) An original veterinary certificate certifying that the fibre meets the specific requirements of clause 
2.8.2(1) of this IHS. 
c) A manufacturer’s or fibre certifier’s declaration that the fibre has been treated in accordance with 
clause 2.8.2(1 )(b) of this IHS ( if applicable) . 
2.8.2 Requirements  
(1) Consignments of rabbit fibre must meet the following requirements:  
a) Anthrax:  
i) Pulled, plucked, brushed or shaved fibre must originate from live and healthy animals; or  Import Health Standard :  Animal Fibre  
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Ministry for Primary Industries    Page  13 of 19 ii) Fibre is derived from animals that have been slaughtered to produce meat for human 
consumption and originates from establishments that are not under movement restrictions 
for the control of anthrax an d where no case  of anthrax has occurred during the 20 days 
prior to slaughter; or  
iii) Fibre originates fr om animals resident in an anthrax -free area; or  
iv) Fibre has been  treated by immersion in hot water at 90˚C for 45 minutes, 95˚C for 25 
minutes or 100˚C for 15 minutes.  
b) If the fibre has not been immersed in hot water in accordance with subclause  1(a)(iv) abov e, then 
the fibre must be treated in the following manner:  
i) Washed in water  heated at a temperature of at least 75°C for at least five minutes, in the 
presence of a non -ionic detergent at a concentration of at least 1g per litre; or  
ii) Commercially scoured (aqueous scouring at 60 -70°C for at least three  minutes) and then 
dried at a temperature of  at least 70°C for at least two minutes .     
(2) Alternatively fibre may be authorised to  be moved  to a transitional facility for treatment in accordance 
with clause 2.8.2(1)(b). 
2.9 Mink fibre  
2.9.1 Documentation  
(1) Consignments of mink fibre must be accompanied by the following documentation:  
a) An original veterinary certificate certifying that the fibre meets the specific requirements of clause 
2.9.2 of this IHS; or 
b) A government -endorsed manufacturer’s declaration certifying that the fibre has been treated in 
accordance with clause 2.9.2 of this IHS.  
2.9.2 Requirements  
(1) Fibre must be  processed in the following manner:  
a) Immersed  in hot water at 90˚C for 45 minutes, 95˚C for 25 m inutes or 100˚C for 15 minutes.  
2.10 Bristles and hair  
2.10.1  Documentation  
(1) Consignments of bristles and hair must be accompanied by the following documentation:  
a) An import permit is required for fibre authorised to be moved to a transitional facility for further 
proce ssing.  
b) An original veterinary certificate certifying that the fibre meets the specific requirements of clause 
2.10.2(3) of this IHS; or 
i) A government -endorsed manufacturer’s declaration certifying that the fibre has been 
treated in accordance with clause 2.10.2(3) of this IHS.  
2.10.2  Requirements  
(1) Horse tails (washed horse tails plaited into webbing tape intended for cosmetic use in show horses) 
are eligible for biosecurity  clearance provided that, on inspection, they are free from visible 
contamination.  
(2) All consi gnments of bristles and hair that have been commercially manufactured into articles (e.g. paint 
brushes, shaving brushes, hair brushes, musical instruments, etc) that require no further processing or 
on inspection are clean are eligible for biosecurity cle arance.  Import Health Standard :  Animal Fibre  
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Ministry for Primary Industries    Page  14 of 19 (3) All other consignments of bristles and  hair must be treated in the following manner:  
a) Imme rsion  in hot water at 90˚C for 45 minutes, 95˚C for 25 minu tes or 100˚C for 15 minutes.  
(4) Alternatively fibre may be authorised to be moved to a transitional fac ility for treatment in accordance 
with clause 2.10.2(3)  of this IHS. 
2.11 Feathers  
2.11.1  Documentation  
(1) Commercial consignments of washed loose feathers must be accompanied by the following 
documentation:  
a) A manufacturer’s declaration verifying that the feathers have  been  treated in accordance with 
clause 2.11.2(1)  of this IHS. 
2.11.2  Requirements  
(1) Commercially manufactured items containing feathers ( see definition in Schedule 2) that are free from 
visible contamination (e.g. blood, skin, manure, soil, plant material, pests) are eligible for biosecurity 
clearance.  
(2) Commercial consignments of loose feathers must be commercially washed  or be free from visible 
contamination on inspection . 
(3) Individual feathers that are washed or are clean on inspection are eligible for biosecurity clearance.  
(4) Contaminated feathers must be authorised to a transitional facility for treatment as outlined below:  
a) Fumigation  with formalin (10% formaldehyde)  for eight hours in accordance with the Code ; or 
b) Gamma irradiation  with a dose of 20 kGy in accordance with the Code . 
2.12 Wool grease and lanolin  
2.12.1  Documentation  
(1) Bulk wool grease and lanolin must be accompanied by the following documentation:  
a) A manufacturer’s d eclaration  that the wool grease/ lanolin has been treated in accordance with 
clause 2.12.2(1)  of this IHS. 
2.12.2  Requirements  
(1) Following aqueous scouring, wool grease must be further processed and purified by acid treatment at 
a temperature of at least 95°C for at least  six hours.  
(2) Lanolin and lanolin -based products from any country are eligible for biosecurity  clearance provided the 
products have been commercially packaged.  
2.13 Other products from animal fibre  
2.13.1  Documentation  
(1) No documentation is required.  
2.13.2  Requirements  
(1) Raw or unreeled silk (excluding cocoons) and other processed silk fibre from any country are eligible 
for biosecurity  clearance.  Import Health Standard :  Animal Fibre  
 Draft  for Consultation  . 
Ministry for Primary Industries    Page  15 of 19 (2) Commercially manufactured items (e.g. apparel, carpets, fabric, dyed and spun yarn) containing 
animal fibre such as wool, mohair, ango ra, cashmere, alpaca, etc from any country are eligible for 
biosecurity  clearance. Numdah rugs must be inspected to ensure they are free from contaminants 
such as seeds.  
2.14 Empty used wool packs  
2.14.1  Documentation  
(1) Consignments of empty used wool packs being impor ted into New Zealand must be accompanied by 
the following documentation:  
a) A valid import permit . 
2.14.2  Requirements  
(1) Wool packs  must  be immersed in water at : 
a) 90°C for 45 minutes  or 95°C for 25 minutes  or 100°C for 15 minutes . 
2.15 New Zealand returning fibre  
2.15.1  Documentation  
(1) Consignments of New Zealand origin fibre which is being returned for any reason must be 
accompanied by the following documentation:  
a) An original veterinary certificate (or certified copy) that identifies the return ing fibre to be  of New 
Zealan d origin . 
2.15.2  Requirements  
(1) Fibre must:  
a) Originate from New Zealand.  
b) Be in its o riginal packaging and unopened.  
c) Be free from visible contamination.  Import Health Standard :  Animal Fibre  
 Draft  for Consultation  . 
Ministry for Primary Industries    Page  16 of 19 Schedule 1 – Document History  
 
Date First Issued  Title Shortcode  
25 September  2014  Animal Fibre  ANIFIBRE.ALL  
Date of Issued A mendments  Title Shortcode  
TBA Animal Fibre  ANIFIBRE.ALL  
 Import Health Standard :  Animal Fibre  
 Draft  for Consultation  . 
Ministry for Primary Industries    Page  17 of 19 Schedule  2 – Definitions  
Animal Fibre 
“Animal fibre” or “fibre” refers to the natural external fibres or appendages that form part of the integument 
(organ comprising skin and appendages) of an animal. The end use of animal fibres can be varied but is 
generally for manufacturing in to apparel, carpets, bedding  or fabric.   
Anthrax -Free Area(s)  
An area or areas where no cases of anthrax have occurred in the 6 months prior to the d ate of the shipment, 
or an area or areas where establishments are not subject to restrictions imposed for the control of anthrax at 
the time of fibre collection. The area or areas must have procedures that ensure the detection of outbreaks, 
effective quara ntining of premises, and destruction of all parts of animals with anthrax.  
Aqueous S couring  
Fibre undergoes a series of washes in water and detergent at a temperature of 60 -70˚C for at least 3 minutes.   
Commercially Manufactured Items Containing Feathers  
Commercially manufactured items containing feathe rs include  but is not limited to  shuttle cocks, dyed boas, 
dusters, feathers in hats, fishing flies, quilts, duvets, pillows, feathers for musical instruments, feathers in 
cultural performance items, handic rafts, and artifacts.  
Competent Authority  
The Veterinary or other Governmental Authority of an OIE Member, that has the responsibility and 
competence for ensuring or supervising the implementation of animal health and welfare measures, 
international veteri nary certification and other standards and recommendation in the Code  in the whole 
territory . 
CTO Direction  
Chief Technical Officer (CTO) Direction – equivalent measures recorded by number under section 27(1)d(iii) 
of the Act,  to enable border staff to clear the goods and record the number in the MPI database .   
Establishment  
Premises where animals are kept . 
Fibre Certifier’s Declaration  
A declaration signed and dated by a person with at least one year of processing experience in the wool 
industry and with an abi lity to recognise scoured and scoured and carded fibre.  
Government Endorsed Manufacturer’s Declaration  
A manufacturer’s declaration endorsed by the Competent Authority of the exporting country. This 
endorsement must be  signed and dated by an official veterinarian, include the official veterinarian’s nam e, and 
be sealed with the stamp or seal of the applicable Competent Authority.   
MPI 
Ministry for Primary Industries .  
Official Veterinarian  Import Health Standard :  Animal Fibre  
 Draft  for Consultation  . 
Ministry for Primary Industries    Page  18 of 19 A veterinarian authorised by the Competent Authority of the country to perform certain designated official 
tasks associated with animal health and/or public health and inspections of commodities and, when 
appropriate, to certify in conformity with the prov isions of the Code  Chapter for certification procedures . 
OIE 
The World Organisation for Animal Health . 
The Code  
The OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code as found on the OIE website.   
Import Permit  
A permit issued by the Director -General o f MPI pursuant to section 24D (2) of the Act .   
Private Consignment  
A consignment that has been imported for private use only and not intended for re -sale or commercial 
purposes.  
Scoured Fibre 
Fibre that has been washed in an aqueous soluti on of water and detergent at 60 -70°C for at least  3 minutes 
to remove unwanted dirt and grease. Scoured fibre still needs to be processed to remove seeds and plant 
material.  
Specified Ruminants  
Includes s heep, goats, cattle, yaks, camels, alpacas, and llamas of the suborder Ruminantia  and Tylopoda , 
respectively,  order Artiodactyla for the purposes of this IHS.     
Veterinary Certificate  
A certificate, issued in conformity with the provisions of the Code  Chapter for certification procedures, 
describing the animal health and/or public health  requirements which are fulfilled by the exported 
commodities . 
Visible Contamination  
Includes but is not limited to blood, manure, soil, plant material, and pest infestation.  Import Health Standard :  Animal Fibre  
 Draft  for Consultation  . 
Ministry for Primary Industries    Page  19 of 19 Schedule 3 – Processing Requirements at the Transitional 
Facility  
(1) This part applies to consignments of animal fibre imported into New Zealand that have been authorised 
to be moved for further processing at the transitional facility listed on the permit to import.  
(2) While in the transitional facility, and prior to processing, consign ments of animal fibre must be marked, 
stored, and handled in accordance with the MPI Standard for General Transitional Facilities for 
Uncleared Goods , issued under section 39(1) of the Act (or any stan dard that replaces that standard), 
and any associated requirements listed in Annex F of the guidance document to that standard.  
(3) While in the transitional facility, the facility operator must ensure that the animal fibre is processed in 
accordance with the  requirements detailed under Part 2 of this IHS. 
(4) The facility  operator must ensure that  any packaging  in contact with animal fibre , and all semi -
solid/ solid waste associated with animal fibre is treated, destroyed, or disposed of in an approved 
transitiona l facility by : 
a) Incineration; or  
b) Autoclaving (at least 1 20˚ for at least 30 minutes); or   
c) Deep burial.  
(5) The facility operator must ensure that all effluent generated during processing is:  
a) Discharged into a municipal sewage system; or  
b) Discharged into a securely fenced and isolated soak -pit; or  
c) Treated with a biocide that is listed in the standard know n as MPI Approved Diagnostic Tests, 
Vaccines, Treatments and Post -Arrival Testing Laboratories for Animal Import Health Standards  
(MPI-STD-TVTL ).