Customs wants more New Zealanders returning from overseas to use digital declarations, amid a relatively low uptake compared to other travellers.
Customs manager New Zealand Traveller declaration Holly Stringer said 68% of New Zealand passport holders submitted a digital declaration in June, trailing the 73% of Australian passport holders who did so when entering the country.
More than 5 million travellers have submitted digital declarations since the facility became available, but Stringer said there was more to be done to ease people away from the paper forms.
“Customs aims to make the New Zealand passenger arrival process as streamlined as possible – going digital is the way of the future, so don’t get left behind,” she said.
“Even if you’re not travelling, please help friends or family who are by letting them know.”
She said that as travel became increasingly digital, it was essential for New Zealanders to adopt some new habits.
“We purchase flight tickets, sort accommodation, sign up for activities, check in to flights, and even order domestic transportation to the airport online. The digital declaration is no different,” she said.
“It can be completed within 24 hours of your flight, to take away the stresses that last-minute travel requirements can bring. It is easy to complete, it’s free, and your details can be saved for the next time you travel.”
