Before 2020, about 1.5 million people travelled from Australia to New Zealand. The number dropped between 2020 and 2021, reaching a low of about 160.000, but it’s showing an upward trend for 2022. Given the high amount of traffic between the two countries, it’s no surprise that they have agreed to a mutual visa waiver for their citizens. But what about passports? Do you need a passport to go to New Zealand?
If you are interested in finding out, keep reading this article. In the next paragraphs, we’ll go over every detail of New Zealand passport requirements, answering all the questions you might have.
Do you need a passport to fly to New Zealand?
New Zealand authorities specify that ALL travellers entering the country’s territory by air need to present a valid passport upon landing. Generally, it’s necessary to have a travel document valid for at least another 3 (three) months upon leaving New Zealand and a visa or NZeTA (New Zealand electronic Travel Authority). However, an Australian citizen only needs a passport valid on the date of arrival and departure. An Australian permanent resident visa holder must have a passport and an NZeTA.
Since a passport will be required to book and board the flight, even a New Zealand citizen is not exempt from these rules.
In addition, as of 2022, ALL travellers need to complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration online, regardless of their nationality.
Getting to New Zealand by sea —passport requirements
According to both Australian and New Zealand authorities, to board a cruise ship that stops in New Zealand territory, it’s mandatory to carry a valid passport. Non-Australian citizens and Australian permanent residents still need a visitor visa or an NZeTA, depending on their circumstances.
Since the ship will be crossing international borders, even New Zealand citizens need to present a valid passport.
The passport requirements are the same for all travellers; minors of all ages have to carry a valid passport to cross the border into New Zealand.
Got the travel bug? Try reading these articles for more ideas:
- Can You Book International Flights Without a Passport From Australia?
- Do You Need a Passport to Fly Domestic in Australia?
- Do You Need a Passport to Go To Norfolk Island?
- Renew Expired Australian Passport: A How-to Guide
- Visa-Free Countries for Australian Passport Holders in 2024
- Can You Use an Expired Passport as ID in Australia?
- How to Renew South African Passport in Australia: A Step-By-Step Guide
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Do you need a passport to go from Australia to New Zealand: FAQ
To conclude, we’ll answer a few questions about New Zealand passport requirements for Australian citizens.
Do Australian citizens need a passport to travel to New Zealand?
Yes, according to the New Zealand Immigration Office, an Australian citizen travelling to New Zealand needs a valid passport.
Can you travel from Australia to New Zealand without a passport?
No, passport-free travel between Australia and New Zealand is not an option. Both the airline or cruise line and border authorities require a valid passport.
Is a passport required to travel to New Zealand for Australian permanent residents?
Yes, all travellers need to have a passport. Australian permanent residents also need an NZeTA.
Do I need a passport to fly to New Zealand?
Yes, New Zealand entry requirements state that all passengers need a valid passport.
Do you need a passport to travel from Melbourne to New Zealand?
Yes, everyone needs a passport to travel between Australia and New Zealand.
Do you need a passport to go to New Zealand if you’re Australian?
Yes, if you are an Australian citizen or an Australian resident, you still need a passport. The only exception for Australians is that, since they come from a visa waiver country, they don’t need a visa or an NZeTA.
To travel to New Zealand, what are the passport requirements for Australians?
Australian citizens need to show a valid passport to travel into and out of New Zealand.
Do you need a passport to travel between Australia and New Zealand?
Yes, a valid passport is required for citizens of both countries to travel both ways.
Passport requirements to travel to New Zealand – closing remarks
According to the Australian High Commission and the New Zealand Immigration Office, all travellers between Australia and New Zealand must present a valid passport independent of nationality. The only exception for Australian citizens is that they don’t need an NZeTA or 3 (three) months of passport validity. So, whoever wants to go from Australia to New Zealand needs to adjust their travel arrangements accordingly.
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Riccardo Ollmert is a multilingual writer and travel expert. He studied Languages, Literature and Publishing Industry at La Sapienza University of Rome. His passions include traveling and learning new skills.
