Digital arrival declaration boosts biosecurity

Until now, all travellers flying into New Zealand were given a paper arrival card on their flight, containing questions about where they had come from, and they were bringing with them.

Those cards are being replaced by a new digital system called the New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD). Instead of the old paper card, travellers now fill in and submit an online form.

The NZTD is being rolled out in phases to ensure it is fit for purpose, thoroughly tested, and officials – including Biosecurity New Zealand border staff - are well prepared. It was first introduced last week for international air passengers arriving in Christchurch and Wellington, followed by Queenstown later in July, and Auckland by the end of August. It is expected to be in place for all maritime travellers, including cruise passengers, by 31 October.

Biosecurity New Zealand were partners in the developing the new system with other border/government agencies and it is a huge boost for biosecurity. It will give better access to data to assess possible risks and higher risk passengers and provides a new way to pass on biosecurity information to arriving international travellers ahead of their arrival.