WORLD TRADE  
ORGANIZATION   
G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
17 October 2012  
 
(12-5642) 
Committee on Import Licensing Original:   English 
  
 
REPLIES TO QUESTIONNAIRE ON IMPORT LICENSING PROCEDURES
1 
 
Notification under Article 7.3 of the 
Agreement on Import Licensing Procedures 
 
NEW ZEALAND 
  
 The following notification, dated 12 October 201 2, is being circulated at the request of the 
delegation of New Zealand. 
 
_______________ 
 Table of Contents                   Pages 
 
I.  ANTI-PERSONNEL MINES ................................................................................................... 2  
II.  CHEMICAL WE APONS ......................................................................................................... 4  
III. CONTROLLED DRUGS ......................................................................................................... 7  
IV.  CLUSTER MUNITIONS ....................................................................................................... 10  
V.  ENDANGERED, THREATENED SPECIES ....................................................................... 12  
VI.  FIREARMS AND RESTRICTED WEAPONS ................................................................... 14  
VII. EXPLOSIVES .................................................................................................................... ..... 15 
VIII. HAZARDOUS WASTES ....................................................................................................... 18  
IX.  GRAPHIC MATERIALS INTENDED FOR USE BY CHILDREN ................................. 20  
X.  OFFENSIVE WEAPONS (KNIVES AND KNUCKLE DUSTERS) ................................. 22  
XI.  IMPORTS TO ANTARCTICA ............................................................................................. 24  
XII. MARINE ANIMALS .............................................................................................................. 2 6 
XIII. OZONE DEPLETING SUBSTANCES ................................................................................ 29  
XIV. RADIOACTIVE SUBSTANCES .......................................................................................... 31  
 
                                                      
1 See G/LIC/3, Annex, for the Questionnaire. G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
Page 2  
 
  I. ANTI-PERSONNEL MINES  
The Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of 
Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction, 1997 (the Convention), 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 pur poses 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 acquire d, possessed, retained, imported or exported 
for the purposes of developing, or training pers ons 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 incapacitati ng, 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 opposed to a person and equipped with an anti-handling 
device. 
  
3. The system applies to goods origin ating in and coming from "all" countries. 
 4. The system is designed to meet the requirements of the Convention by the restricting the quantity of anti-personnel mines imported to those re quired for the purposes of developing, or training 
persons in, techniques of mine detection, mine clear ance, 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 pur poses of developing, or training persons in, 
techniques of mine detection, mine clearance,  mine deactivation, or mine destruction. 
 
The licensing is statutorily required, and the le gislation does not leave designation of products 
to be subjected to licensing to administra tive discretion (see answer to Q2 (i) above). 
 
Is it not possible for the government (or the ex ecutive branch) to abolish the system without 
legislative approval.  Procedures  
 
6. Importers must seek the approval of the Mins ter of Foreign Affairs, who must then give 
notice in writing as per 2 1. above.    G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
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  I.  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 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. 
 
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 Z ealand). However, applications may be referred 
as required to other agencies for technical a dvice when assessing the stated purpose of the 
import, the capabilities if the importer to eff ect the stated purpose, and security assessments 
around the storage, use and disposal of the anti-personnel mines.   
 
VIII. The Minister of Foreign Affairs determin es the number of anti-personnel mines required to 
meet any exceptions to the Act. Should an app lication have merit then the Minister could 
adjust the gazetted number of mines permitted in the country. 
 IX. Not applicable.  
 
X.  Not applicable.    XI. No.  7. (a) Not applicable.  
 
(b) Not applicable. Those importing anti-personne l 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 re quirements. Applicants would need to make a 
case to the Minister of Foreign Affairs for the importation of anti-personnel mines in conformance G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
Page 4  
 
  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 possessi on 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 obtaining permission to import anti-personnel mines.  
 
13. Not applicable.  
Conditions of Licensing  
 
14. There is no set period of validity for an approva l 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 Anti-Personnel Mines Prohibition Act 1998 . 
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
 
18. No. 
 19 Not applicable.    
II. CHEMICAL WEAPONS 
The Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) is implemented 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 (a n 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 warf are nerve, blister, choking, or blood agents, 
including sarin and its near relations.   
 (b) CWC Schedule 2A toxic chemicals and 2B precursor chemicals : these are dual-use 
chemicals, more commonly used and tr aded 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.   G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
 Page 5 
 
 
  (c) CWC Schedule 3A toxic chemicals and 3B precursor chemicals: t hese are dual-use 
chemicals, more commonly used  and traded for ro utine commercial purposes. A Schedule 3A 
or 3B chemical 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, 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 chemical s to countries/territories which are not party to the 
CWC. A full list of countries/territories party to the CWC are listed on the OPCW website 
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 St ates Parties. States Parties in turn must take the 
steps necessary to enforce that pr ohibition 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 le gislation does not leave designation of products 
to be subjected to licensing to administ rative discretion (see answer to Q2 above). 
 
It is not possible for the government (or the ex ecutive branch) to abolish the system without 
legislative approval.  Procedures  
 
6. Not applicable. Information concerning schedul ed chemicals and how to apply for an import 
licence to enter New Zealand is published on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, New 
Zealand's website: http://mfat.govt.nz/Trade- and-Economic-Relations/3-Export-controls/92-
Chemical-Imports/index.php 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 Pr evention of Chemical Weapons 
(OPCW) which implements the CWC internationally, at least 30 days in advance. Licences can be obtained within a shor ter time-limit if required. 
 (b) Not immediately, but depending on circumstan ces, a licence can be provided within 24 hours 
of application. 
 (c)        No.  (d) Consideration of licence applications is effected by a single administrative organ. 
 G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
Page 6  
 
  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 licence w ould be declined. If Schedule 2 and 3 chemicals 
were imported for retransfer and if it is assessed th at 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 ther e is no statutory right of administrative appeal 
against any of the decisions by the Secretary, applicants could seek a judicial review of an 
administrative decision through the courts.  
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
 
9. (a)  Not applicable.  
(b) Not applicable. 
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence  
 
10. Importers are required to ensure full details  of chemicals to be imported are provided, 
including the correct name, mixture weight/analy sis breakdown and, if possible, CAS (Chemical 
Abstracts Service) number and the intended use of the chemicals.  Details of CWC Schedules of 
Chemicals (1-3) can be found on our website h ttp://mfat.govt.nz/Trade-and-Economic-Relations/3-
Export-controls/92-Chemical-Imports/index.php to gether with more detailed information on the 
application procedure. Completed documents should be sent to fax + 64 4 439 8519, or by email to 
exportcontrols@mfat.govt.nz.   
 
11. Import Permit from the Ministry of Fore ign 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 Zealand 
 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 substa nces and could be required to comply  with the Hazardous Substances and 
New Organisms (HSNO) Act 1996 and supporting regulations.  
 19. Not applicable to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, New Zealand.  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
 Page 7 
 
 
  III. CONTROLLED DRUGS 
Misuse of Drugs Act 1975 and Misu se of Drugs Regulations 1977 
Outline of Systems  
1. New Zealand is a party to th e Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs 1961 (the Convention) and 
the Convention on Psychotropic Substances 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 intern ational control of psychotropic substances. Both narcotics and 
psychotropic drugs are classified as Controlled Drugs in New Zeal and under the Misuse of Drugs Act 
1975 ("The Act").  Psychotropic substances includ e 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 requi rements and quotas. 
 Importing and exporting of controlled drugs a nd psychotropics requires an import or export 
licence to be issued prior to the shipment of drug s entering or leaving New Ze aland. Applications are 
submitted to the Medicines Control section of the Mini stry of Health.  Licences are issued for medicinal 
(human consumption/veterinary us e), scientific (including analysis  for law enforcement) or drug 
detector training purposes only. 
 A Licence to Deal in Contro lled Drugs or a Licence to Po ssess Controlled Drugs, or 
authorisation under Act (e.g. a regist ered medical practitione r), is required under the regulations before 
the issuance of licences to impor t or export controlled drugs.  
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2. Import and export licensing of cont rolled drugs listed in Schedules 1, 2, 3 (excluding part 6) & 4 
Part 3.1 of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975.  Licensin g of importers and exporters to deal in Controlled 
Drugs.   
3. The system applies to goods originating in and coming from all countries. 
4. Licensing is intended to restrict the quantity of imports to quota issued by the INCB. The 
INCB administers a system of estimates for narcotic drugs and a voluntary assessment system for psychotropic substances and monitors licit activities involving drugs through a statistical returns 
system.  It aims to assist Governments in achie ving a balance between supply and demand of these 
substances.  As a signatory to the conventi ons no alternative methods are permissible. 
 
5. The law under which licensing is maintained is  the Misuse of Drugs Act 1975 and the Misuse 
of Drugs Regulations 1977. The schedules to the Act define the class of controlled drug.  All 
controlled drugs require import and export licences a nd licences to deal or possess, or authorisation 
within the Act.   
 Regulation 4 covers the requ irements for deal licences. 
 Regulation 7 covers the issuance of import and export licences. 
 Regulation 9 applies if a person, employed at a fi eld research station or laboratory, wishes to be 
in possession of controlled drugs.  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
Page 8  
 
   Other legislation applicable to  import/export of controlled dr ugs and dealing with controlled 
drugs are sections 6, 7 and 8 of the Act. 
 Licensing is statutorily required and there is no administrative discretion as to the products to be 
subjected to licensing.  The legislation defines the restri ctions applicable to drugs  listed in each schedule 
to the Act.  It is not possible for the government (o r the executive branch) to abolish the system without 
legislative approval. 
Procedures 
6.I  Quota for the import of controlled drugs can be viewed at www.incb.org. International 
competent health authorities (the authority re sponsible for administra tion of the regulatory 
regime in that country) are advised to check their quota status regular ly online.  Licensed 
importers can also view quota on this site.  Quota is set for the country; not for specific 
importers. 
II. Quota is established on a yearly basis, r unning from 1 January – 31 December each year.  The 
size of quota is determined by the stock on ha nd as of 31 December each year as well as 
previous, current and projected consumption. Supplementary quota can be applied for from 
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 and export.  Import and export 
licences must be used within six months from the date of issue. 
III. Licences are endorsed by the appropriate author ity as they are used and returned to Medicines 
Control or competent authority of the country of export.  On return of the endorsed licences, 
databases are updated to pr ovide statistics for quar terly and yearly reporting of the movement of 
controlled drugs. Unused allocations cannot be rolled over into the next year.  Licences cannot 
be used multiple times. 
IV. Applications are demand driven.  Applications can be made at any time. V. All completed and accurate appl ications (within the quota limit)  are issued within 30 working 
days of submission. 
VI. An importation may be  made as soon as the im port licence is issued and the competent authority 
in the country of export has issued the appropriate authorisation/licence. 
VII. Importers only have to appr oach the controlled drug adviso r Medicines Control to obtain an 
application form for a licence to import. The granting of licences is under the auspices of the Licensing Authority, Medicines Control, Ministry  of Health.  Where applicable, Agricultural 
Compounds and Veterinary Medicines (ACVM) is  consulted on importations for veterinary 
controlled drugs.  Ministerial a pproval is necessary for the impor t or export of controlled drugs 
listed in schedule 1 and many liste d in schedule 2 of the Act. Import licences are only issued on 
the production of an authentic export licence or au thorisation, issued by the health authority in 
the country of export. International competent aut horities are contacted if further information is 
required. 
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 authorities in other countries that ar e signatories to the INCB  Conventions require an 
import licence issued by New Zeala nd before exporting from their country.  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
 Page 9 
 
 
  X. The importing country is informed of the effect  given by the exporting country by the transfer of 
the appropriate copies of sta ndardised import and export lice nsing forms required by INCB for 
signatories to the convention. 
XI. There are no products for which licences ar e issued on the condition that the goods will be 
exported and not sold on the domestic market. 
7. The conventions place a quantitative limit on all controlled drugs imported. 
(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 import/licensed to 
deal in New Zealand.  The reason for refusal is advised and an application form for a deal 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 ar e only issued retrospectiv ely if there are strong 
reasons for doing so, for example an impending national shortage of a drug. 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9.(a) The importation of controlled drugs only opera tes under a restrictive system as required by 
the international conventions.  Only importers w ith a Licence to Deal in Controlled Drugs, or 
a Licence to Possess Controlled Drugs, or authori sation under Act (e.g. a registered medical 
practitioner) are eligible to apply for licences. 
 (b) Not applicable.  
(c) Not applicable. Documentational and Other Requirem ents for Application for Licence  
10. Sample of application for an import licence provided.   
11. The export licence copy must accompany th e goods across the border and match up with the 
import licence copy. 
 Licences to import (and export) are issued in quint uplicate.  Each copy has a specific purpose as 
listed on the bottom of the copy and must be retain ed or forwarded to the appropriate authority. 
 Original copy: Licensee to forward to the e xporter for presentation to the Authorities 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. G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
Page 10  
 
   Quintuplicate: Copy retained by Ministry of Health. 
12. The fee for an import or export application is $194.22.  Up to four  controlled drugs or different 
strengths of controlled drugs may be list ed on one import of export application. 
13. Payment in full is required prior to the issuing of licence.  The fee is not refundable if an import 
of export licence expires. 
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 month time frame 
from date of issue); 
- That the controlled drugs are to be utilised for medical, scientific, or dog training 
purposes only. 
 
Other conditions that the Licensing Authority ma y deem necessary can be added to a licence. 
(b) Not applicable. 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. Yes, importer must have a Licence to Deal in or Licence to Possess Controlled Drugs, or be 
authorised to possess cont rolled drugs under the Act. 
19. Not applicable. Licence to import is  issued to a New Zealand entity. 
 
IV. 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, develope d, 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 and Coverage of Licensing  
 
2.(a) The Minister of Foreign Affairs may, by notice in writing, authorise cluster munitions to be 
used, developed, produced, otherwise acquire d, possessed, retained, imported or exported for 
the purposes of developing, or tr aining persons in, t echniques of cluster munitions detection, 
clearance, deactivation, or destruction.  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
 Page 11 
 
 
  (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 that 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 a ll of the following characteristics: 
-  each munition contains fewer than 10 explosive submunitions: -  each explosive submunition weighs more than 4 kilograms: -  each explosive submunition is desi gned to detect and engage a single 
target object: 
-  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 origin ating 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 munitio ns imported to those required for the purposes of developing, or training 
persons in, techniques of cluster munitions detecti on, clearance, deactivation, or destruction. The 
Minister of Foreign Affairs must specify, 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 import 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 trai ning persons in, techniques of cluster munition 
detection, clearance, deactivation, 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 ex ecutive branch) to abolish the system without 
legislative approval.  
Procedures  
 
6.  Not applicable.  7.(a) Not applicable.   
(b) Not applicable. Those importing cluster m unitions inadvertently could face prosecution. 
 (c) No.  (d) Not applicable.  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
Page 12  
 
  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 re quirements. Applicants would need to make a 
case to the Minister of Foreign Affairs for the importation of cluster 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 import and designation by the Minister as an officer authorised to be in possessi on 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 goods.  
 
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 approva l 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 Prohibition Act 2009.  
 Other Procedural Requirements  
 
18. No.  19. Not applicable.   
 
V. 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 various depe nding on: the Appendix in which the species is 
listed; the age of the specimen; and the nature of  the specimen (e.g. personal effects, scientific  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
 Page 13 
 
 
  samples, etc.). All parts and derivatives of species are included. Permits are obtained by 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.  
 4. Licensing is intended to ensure that harves ting for trade does not impact the long-term 
survival 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 ha ve restrictions on quantity of imports. 
 7. In New Zealand, we are required to process all permits within 20 working days (though it 
usually takes 5-10 days). All CITES permits are gran ted by the Department of Conservation. Permit 
signatories must be lodged with the CITES Secretaria t to ensure a system of  checking veracity of 
permits (for example through signatures).  
 8. An application for a permit may be refused if cr iteria are not met. No applications have been 
declined due to other reasons.   
9. All persons, firms and institutions ar e eligible to apply for permits.  
 
Documentational and other require ments for application for license  
 
10. Full information about the importer and the speci men to be traded is required. Application 
form is available here: http://www.doc.govt .nz/about-doc/role/international/endangered-
species/permits/cites-application-form. 
 11. Original permits must accompany the consignm ent, 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 s ituation 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 th ey cannot be tampered with. CITES permits 
issued by the New Zealand CITES authorities are 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.  
 G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
Page 14  
 
  17. Permit conditions are included with this documen t (general conditions for all permits, special 
conditions for live bird exports).   
Other procedural requirements 
 
18. None related to CITES requirements. 
 19. Not applicable.  
 
VI. FIREARMS AND RESTRICTED WEAPONS 
Arms Act 1983 and Arms Regulations 1992 
 
Outline of Systems  
 
1. Applicants for a permit to import firearms and parts thereof may apply to an Arms Office for the 
permit. Permits to import sporting firearms may be issued by th e Arms Officer, permits to import 
pistols, restrict ed weapons and MSSAs are subject to a sp ecial reason and are issued through Police 
National HQ.  This requirement covers firearms, including pi stols, restricted wea pons and military style 
semi-automatics (MSSA) , and parts thereof. 
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
 
2. The permitting regime applies to  firearms, pistols, restricted  weapons and MSSAs and parts 
thereof.  3. The system applies to goods originating in and coming from all countries. 
 
4. The purpose is both the safe use and c ontrol of firearms and other weapons. 
 5. Import permitting for firearms (etc.) is es tablished by the Arms Act 1983 and Arms 
Regulations 1992. Policy and practice is outlined in the Police Arms Manua l 2002 (available on line at 
www.police.govt.nz/service/firearms). Certain or ganisations, including New Zealand Defence and 
Police are exempt from the licensing regime and may import firearms etc. direct if in the personal 
possession of a member of th at organisation and for the pur poses of that organisation. 
 
Procedures  
 
6. The importation of sporting firear ms is constrained by the approva l of those firearms as being 
safe and having a valid civilian use in New Zealand,  and by market forces. Importation of pistols, 
restricted weapons and MSSAs are constrained by the requirement for a "special reason". 
 7.(a) A permit to import is required before the fire arm lands in New Zealand. The only exception is 
where the individual has been unable to obtain a permit. This usually applies only to returning 
residents, immigrants and visitors to New Zealand. 
 (b) Import permits may only be issued to the holder of a firearms licence. Visitors may obtain a 
visitor's licence and permit to im port at the border (on demonstratin g that they are fit and proper 
to possess firearms, and that th ey have been a bona fide shooter in their country of origin). 
 
(c) Not applicable. 
 (d) New Zealand Police manages the firear ms import permit regime (see above).  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
 Page 15 
 
 
  8. The application for a permit to import may be re fused 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 Requirem ents 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 fro m date of issue. 
 
15. No. 
 16. The permit to imp-ort 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 replac ing a worn part - of an MSSA). 
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
 
18. Not applicable.  
19. Not applicable.  
 
VII. EXPLOSIVES 
Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 and va rious HSNO regulations 
 Outline of Systems  
 
1. Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Ac t 1996 (HSNO) is the legislation under which 
hazardous substances are regulated . Under the legislation all hazardous  substances must be approved 
before they are imported to or used in New Zeala nd. Approval is of the substances and once approved 
anyone meeting conditions on use may make use of (and import) the substance.  
 
 There are a number of approval types with approvals being give n under different parts of the 
HSNO Act:  - Part 5 Approvals – cover a single hazardous substance 
- Part 6A Group standards – cover group of subs tances with similar hazard properties, use and 
handling requirements.  
  Conditions are applied on the use of the substance. G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
Page 16  
 
   Applications can be made for the foll owing approvals of hazardous substances: 
 - Release approvals - pesticides, veterinary medi cine and products not c overed by group standard 
approvals; 
- Group standard approvals - gene ral and industrial use products w ith similar uses and hazards 
- Issuing a new group standard approval - for pr oducts with similar uses and hazards for which 
a group standard does not yet exist; 
- Emergency approvals - to use a non-approved substance in an em ergency situation or to use a 
substance in a way it is not approved for; 
- Containment approvals - for use as an analyti cal standard, research and development, or for 
export only; 
- Transhipment approvals – for the temporar y entry of a non-approved substance into New 
Zealand for transhipment; 
- Import certificates for explosives - to apply for an Explosives Import Certificate; - Approvals for fireworks - for test  certificates required for fireworks; 
 
 The first three of these are generic and 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 indi viduals for a particular 
purpose that relates to the substance.    The agency that administers the regulatory regi me and which makes decisions on applications is 
the Environmental Protection Authority.  
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
 
2. All explosives as outlined in the Hazardous Substances (Firew orks, Safety Ammunition, and 
Other Explosives Transfer) Regulations 2003: 
http://www.epa.govt.nz/Publications/Hazardous%2 0Substances%20Fireworks%20Safety%20Ammuniti
on%20and%20Other%20Explosives%20Transfer%20Regulations%2020031.pdf, except for the following: 
 
(a)  safety ammunition, including pre-primed cartridges and primers, of class 1.4S; and 
(b)  airbag initiators and seatbelt pret ensioners of classes 1.4G and 1.4S; and 
(c)  cable cutters of class 1.4S (UN 0070); and (d)  power device cartridges of class 1.4S (UN 0323); and (e)  signal or shock tubes of class 1.4 (UN 0349); and (f)  cassette degradation devices of class 1.4S (UN 0432); and (g)  beyond their point of sale to the public,— 
(i)  fireworks in classes 1.3G, 1.4G, and 1.4S that are subject to the Hazardous Substances 
(Fireworks) Regulations 2001; and 
(j)  emergency flares and signalling devices in classes 1.3G, 1.4G, and 1.4S; and (k)  model rocket motors in classes 1.4G and 1.4S; and (l)  propellants in classes 1.3C (UN 0161 and UN 0449) and 1.1C (UN 0160), in amounts of less 
than 15 kg; and 
(m)  gunpowder of class 1.1D (UN 0027), in amounts of less than 15 kg; and (n)  igniting fuzes of class 1.4G (UN 0317); and (o)  igniters of class 1.4S (UN 0454).  3. The Import Certificate for Explosives appl ies to the relevant goods originating from all 
countries. 
  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
 Page 17 
 
 
  4. The purpose of the HSNO regul ation 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 fo r 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 
and documented. The Import Certificate is the first step in this recording for imported explosives.  
Domestically produced explos ives are also tracked. The purpose of th e tracking system is to ensure that 
the whereabouts of explosives can be traced so that only those able to have a nd use them have access to 
them.  
 
5. The requirement for an Import Certificate for E xplosives is in regulatio n 4(2) of the Hazardous 
Substances (Tracking) Regulations 2001 issued und er the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms 
Act. The regulation requires tracking of class 1 subs tances (explosives) from  production/import through 
to end of their life when they are used. 
http://www.epa.govt.nz/Publications/CSL%20Proje ct%20Licencing%20Requirements%20for%20Class
%201%20Explosives.pdf  
Procedures  
 
6. Not applicable. 
 
7.(a) The licence must be applied for at least 10 working days before the arrival of the goods in 
New Zealand. In cases of urgenc y, importers can apply on a shor ter timeframe, but the granting 
of the application remains at the New Zealand authority's discretion. 
 
(b) No. 
 (c) No.  (d) Yes, a single organisation handles th e application and approval process. 
 
8. The licence can be declined if  there not sufficient guarantee that the materials will be kept 
secure in transit. Applicants have the right to judicial review in the New Zealand judicial system if they wish to dispute the outcome of an application.  
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
 
9. Anyone (firm, organisation or person) can appl y for an Import Certificate for Explosives. If the 
amount of explosive is over the threshold for a site be fore a test certificate is  required, then evidence 
must be shown that the site has a test certificat e indicating it complies with storage requirements.  
 
Documentational and Other Requirem ents for Application for Licence  
 
10. Links from the webpage go to forms and guides re levant to import certificates for explosives 
and to controlled s ubstances licences: 
http://www.epa.govt.nz/hazardous-substan ces/certifications/P ages/default.aspx 
 
 An import certificate for explosive can only be is sued for explosives that have been approved as 
approved substances under Part 5 of the HSNO Act and where the import comp lies with requirements. 
Evidence is needed of the site the explosives are to be stored in (or used) and of the person in charge of the explosives at this site.  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
Page 18  
 
  11. Documents required on importation ar e those required under the United Nations 
Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, model regulations 17
th revised edition. 
http://www.unece.org/trans/danger /publi/unrec/rev17/17files_e.html. 
 12. The full list of substance application fees is found on: 
http://www.epa.govt.nz/about-us/fees/Pages/H azardous-Substances-f ees-schedule.aspx 
  The fees for an import certificate for explosives and controlled substances licences are:  Import certificate for explosives 
Activity Fee ($NZ, Goods and 
Services tax inclusive) 
Standard explosives $115.00 
Novelty fireworks $57.50 
 
13. Payment in full is required upon application. 
 
Conditions of Licensing  
 
14. The Import Certificate for Explosives relate s to a specified explosive being imported for a 
specific site (usually a distribution site) in New Ze aland. Tracking regulations require tracking of the 
substance from here onwards.  
 15. No.  16. No. 
 
17. No.  
Other Procedural Requirements  
 
18. Not applicable. 
 
19. Not applicable. 
 
VIII.  HAZARDOUS WASTES 
Outline of Systems  
 
1. Imports of waste classified as hazardous under the Imports and E xports (Restrictions) 
Prohibition Order No 2 2004 require consent from th e Environmental Protection Authority.  Consent is 
obtained through meeting the requirements of the Orde r and where proposed imports are in conformity 
with New Zealand’s obligations under the Ba sel Convention and the Waigani Convention.  
 Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
 
2. As above. 
 3. The system applies to goods originating in a nd coming from countries who are Parties to the 
Basel Convention or the Waigani Convention.  Imports from non-Part ies are prohibited. 
  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
 Page 19 
 
 
  4. The purpose is to ensure environmentally sound and efficient management of hazardous wastes 
and that transboundary movements are conducted in a manner which will protec t human health and the 
environmental against the adverse effects which may result. 
 5. Imports and Exports (Restrictions) Act 1988, Im ports and Exports (Restrictions) Prohibition 
Order No 2 2004.   
 Required to implement obligations under the Base l Convention on the Control of the Transboundary 
Movement of Hazardous Wastes a nd their Disposal and the Waigani Convention to Ban the Importation 
into Forum Island Countries of Hazardous and Radi oactive Wastes and to Control the Transboundary 
Movement and Management of Hazardous Wa stes within the South Pacific Region. 
"“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 commer cial arrangements.  No ability to fast tract 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 revi ew of decision is only 
course of appeal.  Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
 
9.(a) Not applicable.  (b) All persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply. 
 
Documentational and Other Requirem ents for Application for Licence  
 
10. A sample form is provided on the EP A website: http://www.epa.govt.nz/hazardous-
substances/import-export/impor t-waste/Pages/ default.aspx. 
 
 Documents the importer is re quired to supply with the application include a completed 
notification form, contract(s), insurance, eviden ce of environmentally s ound management, reason for 
export.  11. Letter of consent from the Environmental Pr otection Authority contai ning a permit number. 
 
12. No.  13. Not applicable.  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
Page 20  
 
  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. 
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
 
18. No.  19. Not applicable. 
 
IX. GRAPHIC MATERIALS INTENDED FOR USE BY CHILDREN 
Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Act 1996 
Graphic Materials Group Standard 2007  
Outline of Systems  
 
1. The Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Act 1996 was enacted to provide a 
comprehensive health, safety and environmen tal regulatory framework covering explosives, 
flammable, oxidising and corrosive substances, as  well as those that are toxic to people and the 
environment. The purpose of the HSNO Act is: "to pr otect the environment, and the health and safety 
of people and communities, by preventing or managi ng the adverse effects of hazardous substances 
and new organisms".  The Ministry of Health is responsible for ensuring that the provisions of the 
HSNO Act are complied with where it is necessary to protect public health, such as prevention of 
injuries from exposures to hazardous substances.  
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
 
2. Some graphic materials have been found to cont ain high concentrations of toxic elements and 
their compounds. Graphic materials that require clear ance for toxic substances refer to products such 
as crayons, finger paints and children's watercolour  paints, specifically manufactured for use by 
children.  
 
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 requireme nts 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 Or ganisms (HSNO) Act 1996, a set of Group 
Standards have been made for Gr aphic Materials 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 Standards regulate the maximum permissible levels of metals in 
imported and locally made graphic materials. Since June 2009, it has been an offence to import or 
manufacture graphic materials intended for use by  children if they do not meet the maximum 
permissible metal limits set in the Group Standards.   G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
 Page 21 
 
 
  Procedures  
 
6. Not Applicable.  7.(a) Clearances of imported goods are managed through the Auckland Regional Public Health 
Service Central Clearing House. Any applicati ons for clearances or approvals for importation 
are sent to the Clearing House on the appropria te form. The written approval of a Medical 
Officer of Health is required before  goods are imported into New Zealand. Importers or 
manufacturers are responsible to en sure that graphic materials are tested for metal levels by an 
accredited laboratory. In New Zealand, la boratories 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 IANZ.   
 (b) Approval can be provided as soon as the medical officer of health is provided with evidence 
that imported graphic materials intended for u se by children meet the maximum permissible 
metal limits set in the Group Standards. A li cence will generally be issued within 24 hours if 
all the documentation is in order.   
  Goods that arrive without approva l will be held at the border until the approval is obtained.   
 
(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 applicati ons generally being requi red to be submitted 
during normal business hours.   
 (d) Consideration of licence applications is effect ed by a single administrative organ. All permit 
applications are processed by the Auckland Regi onal Public Health Service, which provides a 
national point of contact for information to  importers and brokers ; assesses all permit 
applications; reports to importers/brokers wh ether products will be released or require 
inspection and/or treatment; and refer consignmen ts which require inspection and/or treatment 
to the medical officer of health or health pr otection officer  for action (if outside Auckland, 
this will be officers at the DHB public hea lth unit where the consignment is located). 
 
8. In making a decision whether to approve the importation of goods, the Medical Officer of Health at the Auckland Regional Public Health Se rvice will consider such things as whether an 
importer can produce evidence that imported graphic materials intended for use by children meet the 
maximum permissible metal limits set in the Gr oup Standards.  Licences will not otherwise be 
refused.  If any application is refused, this will be after consultation (if possible and appropriate) and 
will be provided in writing. It will clearly state the reasons for the decision and include an explanation of appeal rights.  
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
 
9. All persons, firms and institutions are el igible to apply under non-restrictive systems. 
 
Documentational and Other Requirem ents for Application for Licence  
 
10. The information required for an application is  a completed application form and evidence that 
imported graphic materials intended for use by child ren meet the maximum permissible metal limits 
set in the Group Standards.  This may take th e form of analytical results from New Zealand 
laboratories accredited by International Accreditation New Zealand (IANZ) or from overseas laboratories that are accredited by a body recognised by IANZ.  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
Page 22  
 
  11. Documents are required upon actual importation ar e the medical officer of health's approval OR 
the evidence required to obtain the me dical officer of health’s approval. 
 12. There is no licensing fee or administrative charge.  
13. Not applicable. 
 
Conditions of Licensing  
 
14. The period of validity of a license is for th e specific consignment that has been approved. 
 
15. No.  16. No as the approval is spec ific for each consignment. 
 
17. Not applicable – the approval will not be issued until evidence is provided that imported 
graphic materials intended for use by children meet the maximum permissible metal limits set in the 
Group Standards.  
Other Procedural Requirements  
 
18. Not applicable. 
 19. Not applicable.  
X. OFFENSIVE WEAPONS (KNIVES AND KNUCKLE DUSTERS) 
Outline of Systems  
 
1. The Customs Import Prohibition Order 2008 pr ohibits the importation of the offensive 
weapons listed below, except with the consen t of: the Commissioner of Police, a Deputy 
Commissioner of Police, the Manager: Licensing a nd Vetting, New Zealand Police, or the National 
Operations Manager, New Zealand Police.  Applicants for a consent to import the above offen ce weapons may apply to a Police Arms Officer or 
the Manager: Licensing and Vetting, New Zealand Police. 
 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
 
2. The permitting regime applies to all of the offensive weapons listed below: 
 
- Knuckle-dusters, knives incorporating knuc kle-dusters, swordsticks, and any weapon 
disguised to give the appearance of another article.  
- Any knife having a blade that opens automati cally by hand pressure applied 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 th e handle or sheath by the force of gravity or 
the application of centrifugal force, and that, wh en released, is locked in place by means of a 
button, spring, lever or other device (sometimes  known as a gravity knife or butterfly knife).  
- With the exception of any folding pocket knife with a blade less than 10 cm in length, 
any knife that:  - Is designed for ease of concealment on the person; or   G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
 Page 23 
 
 
  - Has a double-edged blade that is designed or suitable for stabbing or 
throwing (as opposed to cutting); or  
- Is a knife of any of the kinds some times known as urban skinner, terminator, 
black eagle, black dagger or throwing knife. 
- Bayonets. 
 
3. The system applies to goods origin ating in and coming from all countries. 
 
4.         The purpose is both the safe use and control of offensive weapons. 
 5.         Customs Import Prohibition Order 2008.  
Procedures   
 
6.         Controls on the importation of offensiv e 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) A permit to import is required before the offensive weapon is imported into New Zealand. 
Import permits 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 a permit 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 Requirem ents 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.       No.  
Conditions of Licensing  
 
14.       Permits to import offensive weapons  are valid for one year from date of issue. 
 15.       No. G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
Page 24  
 
  16.       The permit to import is personal to the person it is issued to. 
 17.       Conditions may be placed on the permit to import. 
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
 
18.       No.  
19.       No. 
 
XI. IMPORTS TO ANTARCTICA  
Antarctica (Environmen tal Protection) Act 1994  
 
Outline of Systems  
 
1. Under the Antarctica (Environmenta l Protection) Act 1994  and consistent with the 
requirements of the Protocol on Environmental Prot ection to the Antarctic Treaty (the Madrid 
Protocol), the importation of certain items into  Antarctica is restricted or prohibited.  
  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 me mber of, or responsible for organising, any 
expedition to Antarctica which is organised in New Zealand 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 aircra ft, to any person on 
board any ship or aircraft that is: - a New Zealand ship or a New Zealand aircraft; or 
- any other ship, whether registered or not and of whatever nationality, which proceeds 
from New Zealand as it s 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 shel ves or into water in Antarctica any species of 
animal, plant, or micro-organism not native to that area (s28(1) (e). 
 
- No person shall import any non-sterile soil in to Antarctica – except in accordance with a 
permit issued under the Act (s28(1) (f).  
 - No person shall import into Antarctica any dr essed poultry knowing that an inspection in 
accordance with the Protocol on Environmenta l Protection to the Antarctic Treaty reveals 
evidence of disease.  
 - Permits to bring into Antarctica any animal, plan t, or 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 subject to other c onditions as the Minister considers appropriate  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
 Page 25 
 
 
  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 restrictions 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 An tarctic environment and its dependent and 
associated ecosystems.  
5. The permitting regime for Antarctic activiti es 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 (Environmental 
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 gr anted immediately upon request. Permit s should generally be obtained prior 
to activities being pursued in Antarctica. In ex ceptional circumstance permits can be issued 
retrospectively.  
 (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 Ministry of Foreign 
Affairs who seek expert advice on the likely en vironmental 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 po st-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 decisi on 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 activ ity in Antarctica. There is no fee. 
 G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
Page 26  
 
  Documentational and Other Requirem ents for Application for Licence  
 
10. The applicants 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 environmental; 
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 charged.  13. Not applicable.  
Conditions of Licensing  
 
14. The period of the permit depends upon the sp ecific 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 omissi on of persons covered. 
 17. The Minister of Foreign Affairs can impos e 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 administrative processes required.   19. No applicable. 
 
XII. MARINE ANIMALS 
Outline of Systems  
 
1. The import and export of marine mammals (including marine mamma l 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 mu st 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 manage any marine mammal;   - Any international agreement to which New Zealand is a party;   - Any submissions received.  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
 Page 27 
 
 
  Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
 
2. Permits to import / export issued under the Ma rine Mammals Protection Act include all live 
or dead marine mammals, and all marine mamma l 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 accompanies that person from 
or into New Zealand or comprises part of that pe rson'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 origin ating in and coming from all countries. 
 
4. A function of the Department of Conservati on, under the MMPA, is to protect, conserve and 
manage marine mammals in New Zealand and in Ne w 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 unde r 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 situation or to 
the taking of any marine mammal solely for th e 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 c ould apply for judicial review if administrative 
law failure present). 
   
Eligibility 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. 
 G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
Page 28  
 
  Documentational and Other Requirem ents for Application for Licence  
 
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 institutions concerned with the proj ect, 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 pursua nt 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 ta ke the mammal, and details of the proposed 
methods of capture and transportation. 
 
11. CITES documentation and Marine Mammals Protection Act permit. 
 12. Permit processing fees are applicable and va ry among applications according to the work 
involved in permit processing, and whether the applic ation would require gazettal.  General power to 
charge fees given under section 60A-C Conservation 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 pr ior 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 gr anted by the Minister's delegate. 
 
15. No. 
 16. Permits may be transferred to another person w ith the prior consent of the Minister after an 
appropriate application.  Such transfer s 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. N.A. 
  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
 Page 29 
 
 
  XIII.  OZONE DEPLETING SUBSTANCES 
Outline of Systems  
 
1. Imports of ozone depleting substances cont rolled under the Ozone Layer Protection Act and 
Regulations 1996 and some goods also so contro lled 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 S ubstances that Deplete the Ozone Layer and its various amendments. 
 4. The purpose is to help protect human health and the environment from adverse 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 under the Vienna Convention and the Montreal Protocol.  
 5. Ozone Layer Protection Act 1996, Ozone Laye r Protection Regulations 1996, required to 
implement obligations under the Vienna Conventio n and the Montreal Protocol. Controlled ozone 
depleting substances are listed in the Regulations . It is not possible for the government (or the 
executive branch) to abolish the system without legislative approval.  
Procedures  
 
6.I. Information on formalities of filing a pplications for licences is published on the 
Environmental Protection Agency website.  Quota information is available from the 
Environmental Protection Authority.   
 II. A quota system is only used for cont rolled substances (these are HCFCs – 
hydrochlorofluorocarbons).  Overall quota was determined once based on historical use of 
these chemicals by known traders.  Individua l quota was allocated once after this.  Annual 
licences for a calendar year are issued based on the historical individual quota reduced 
according to a phase-down schedule. 
 III. No. 
 
IV. Not applicable.  V. The statutory response timeline is 40 working da ys.  If all information is present and correct 
permits can be issued in a shorter time frame. 
 
VI. Permits can be used to import on the same day as issue. 
 VII. Yes – one single administrative organ.  VIII. The historical set quota amount is a right that  can be temporarily or permanently transferred 
under commercial conditions to other quota holders or to new entran ts in the market.  There is 
provision to issue or reallocate additional quota. 
 IX. Yes, import licenses are required, they are not issued automatically. G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
Page 30  
 
  X. Not applicable. 
 XI. No. 
 
7.(a) No set time limit, depends on timing of comme rcial arrangements.  No ability to fast tract a 
licence but import exemptions for e.g. inadvertency can be applied for up to 10 days after arrival. 
 (b) No.  (c) No. 
 
(d) Yes - one single administrative organ.  8. No additional reasons as to why a request w ould be refused.  Appeal against an adverse 
decision is possible to High Court. 
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
 
9.(a) All persons, firms and institu tions are eligible to apply. 
 (b) All persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply. 
 
Documentational and Other Requirem ents 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 w ith the substance to be imported.  
 
11. Letter from the Environmental Protecti on Authority containing a permit number. 
 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. Yes, permits are transferrable.  There are no limitations or conditions.   17. Yes depending on the substance, determined on a case by case basis.  Other Procedural Requirements  
 
18. No.  
19. Not applicable. 
  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
 Page 31 
 
 
  XIV.  RADIOACTIVE SUBSTANCES 
Radiation Protection Act 1965 and Ra diation Protection Regulations 1982 
Outline of Systems  
1. The Office of Radiation Safety (ORS) ad ministers New Zealand's radiation protection 
legislation.  The Radiation Protection Act 1965 (the Ac t) defines radioactive material and sets out the 
requirement for import consents.  The Radiation Protection Regulations (the Regulations) specify 
exemptions from the requirement to obtain an import consent.    When a consent is issued ORS also issues a permit number which the importer then provides to 
the New Zealand Customs Service in order for the material to be imported. 
Purposes and Coverage of Licensing  
2. Single consignment import consents for an y type of radioactive material, and multiple 
consignment import consents for unsealed radioactive material.  3. The system applies to goods origin ating 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 12 of the Radiation Protection Ac t 1965 prohibits the importation of radioactive 
material without a consent. Regulations 4(3) a nd 4(4) of the Radiation Protection Regulations 1982 
specify exemptions.  There is no administrative discretion to amend these requirements.   The 
executive cannot amend the requirements of the Act without legislative approval. 
 
Procedures  
6.  Not applicable. 
 
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. 
 
(c) No. 
 (d) Importers make a single application to ORS.  In some cases ORS will seek a technical opinion 
from the National Radiation Laboratory before is suing the consent.  This is an internal 
process and does not require multiple approaches by the importer. 
 
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 refusal the reasons are given to the 
applicant.  
Section 23(2) of the Radiation Protection Act provides for appeals to be determined by a 
Board of Appeal.  A comprehensive set of pro cedures is provided in the Radiation Protection 
(Appeals) Regulations 1974.  G/LIC/N/3/NZL/2 
Page 32  
 
  Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence  
9.(a) Not applicable. 
 (b) Yes.   Documentational and Other Requirem ents for Application for Licence  
10. The information required for applications is published on the Environmental Protection 
Agency website http://www.epa.govt.nz/hazar dous-substances/ozone/Pages/OLPA-Application-
forms.aspx.   
11. Notification of arrival of material – no prescribed form. 
 12. For a single consignment consent to import of  IAEA category 1 or 2 radioactive material - 
$100. For a single consignment import consent of IAEA  category 3, 4 or 5 radioactive material - $20. 
For each consignment under a multiple consignment consent to import  unsealed radioactive 
material  - $5. 
 13. No.  
Conditions of Licensing 
 
14. Consents to not have a validity period. 
 15. No.  16. No.   
 
17.(a) Not applicable.  (b) Yes.  Quantitative restrictions apply to multip le consignment consents. Restrictions are in the 
form of quarterly limits on the total activ ity of individual radionuclides imported. 
 Other Procedural Requirements  
18. A licensee must be appointed to assume safe care  of the radioactive material upon its arrival.  
If no such licensee is available then the goods must be stored to the satisfaction of ORS.  This means 
that sometimes an applicant will need to obtain a licence to use the radio active material before 
obtaining the import consent.   
 
19. The payment of all fees is required to be in New Zealand dollars.  
__________