Department of Conservation | Te Papa Atawhai
https://www.doc.govt.nz/
https://www.doc.govt.nz/
Introduction
You may need permits from more than one agency to travel with your personal taonga. Without permits, your taonga may be confiscated during your travel.Overview
Some personal taonga (cultural treasures) are made from animal parts, such as feathers, teeth and bone. Permits are required to stop the illegal cross-border movement of endangered, threatened or exploited species.
Learn more at Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES)
What you need to do
Before you travel
Before you travel, you will need to contact:
- Department of Conservation (DOC)
- Ministry for Culture and Heritage
- the CITES authority of the country you are going to.
They will need to know:
- what the item is, including what it’s made from
- how old the item is or the date you got it
- where you are going and if you will return with the item to New Zealand.
They will confirm if you need a permit and what to do.
During travel
When you have your documentation:
- carry it with the item
- show it to border officials when leaving or returning
- make a copy of your documentation for your records. Border officials will need to keep your originals.
When returning to New Zealand, declare the items on your arrival card under ‘animals and animal products’.
How long will my permit take?
Getting the right permits can take time. It is important to apply early.
CITES applications for export and import, and pre-Convention certificates are normally processed within 20 working days.
Contact
If you have any questions, contact DOC’s CITES team cites@doc.govt.nz.