Goods Across Borders · Customs rule card
Ivory & CITES-Listed Items → New Zealand
Purpose: Traveling · Verified: 2026-07-25
Ivory & CITES-Listed Items import prohibited
Details
Trade in elephant ivory is banned under CITES Appendix I listings. Both import and export of new ivory are prohibited in virtually all countries that are CITES parties. Antique ivory (pre-1947 and in some markets pre-1975 with documentation) may be e. Enforcement in New Zealand carries fines from NZD 5,000 to NZD 500,000 and imprisonment up to 7 years in aggravated cases under Customs and Excise Act 2018 s.388; Misuse of Drugs Act 1975.
Leaving with this item
Elephant ivory may not be taken out of New Zealand — CITES Appendix I listing and domestic ivory laws prohibit cross-border movement of post-1975 ivory, and antique exemptions require permits.
Practical advice
Do not bring ivory & cites-listed items to this country. Penalties may be severe. If unsure, declare on arrival — declared goods at worst attract duty or surrender, while undeclared goods found in screening are seized and fined.
Customs authority
New Zealand Customs Service (NZCS) · https://www.customs.govt.nz