Transiting New Zealand

If you pass through New Zealand on your way to another country and you do not plan to stay, you are a transit passenger.

You can only transit New Zealand through Auckland International Airport, where you must stay in the transit area of the airport. You cannot apply to enter New Zealand.

You can remain in transit for up to 24 hours. If you need to stay longer than 24 hours, you are not a transit passenger and you need to apply to enter New Zealand.

New Zealand border entry requirements | Immigration New Zealand

You may need a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) or transit visa to transit New Zealand. Some people do not need an NZeTA or transit visa.

Immigration New Zealand explains who needs an NZeTA or transit visa, and who can transit New Zealand without one.

Who can transit New Zealand | Immigration New Zealand

You can transit New Zealand to or from Australia. Flight availability may be limited — check with your airline if flights are available. You must meet all requirements for transiting New Zealand.

Who can transit New Zealand | Immigration New Zealand

You must also meet all requirements for your final destination. These may include valid visas to enter the country, negative pre-departure test results and proof of vaccination.

Only travellers from some countries are allowed to transit New Zealand to China.

Who can transit New Zealand to China | Immigration New Zealand

If you are entering New Zealand for longer than 24 hours, you are not a transit passenger.

You must have a valid visa that permits your entry into New Zealand:

New Zealand border entry requirements | Immigration New Zealand

If you are transiting New Zealand, you do not need to provide a negative pre-departure test.

However, it is your responsibility to make sure you understand the requirements of the countries you are travelling through and your final destination.

If you are transiting New Zealand and are not a New Zealand citizen, you must meet New Zealand’s COVID-19 vaccination requirements before flying to New Zealand, or have a certificate from a medical practitioner saying they cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons.

This applies even though you are staying "airside" and you do not go through Customs.

Vaccination requirements for travel