The NZ–India Free Trade Agreement takes effect today, 20 October 2026. Customs and @cbic_india are working together to support a smooth start. Check the official guidance to ensure your business is ready: mfat.govt.nz/en/trade/free-t…
Customs officers have been working alongside partners at Niue Customs to share practical skills and training that will help detect hazards in cargo environments. 🇳🇿 🤝 🇳🇺
Safety is everyone’s responsibility at the airport. ✈️ Customs’ airport-based teams have been getting behind Airport Safety Week, highlighting how the small actions we take each day, from communicating clearly to looking out for one another, help keep workers and travellers safe
In this week's issue of Customs Release:
- New Border Processing Levy rates coming 🛳️
- Prepare for the NZ-India FTA 🤝
- Drug smugglers caught by Customs 🚨
- Webinars to help you with exporting 🙋♀️
mailchi.mp/customs/new-zeala…
Customs’ team at AKL Airport has delivered two separate results within a week in the fight against illicit drug smuggling: an arrest for alleged methamphetamine smuggling and the sentencing of a drug courier intercepted earlier this year. Read further: bit.ly/3VLFjNR
Wear it before you need it 🛟 Today, new nationwide lifejacket rules come into effect, requiring everyone aboard a recreational craft 6 metres or less to wear a lifejacket while underway.
For more information on the changes, head to: maritimenz.govt.nz/recreatio…
Our Christchurch team recently welcomed World Trade Law students from the University of Canterbury for a behind-the-scenes look at Customs' work at the Cargo Inspections Facility, learning how Customs helps keep international trade moving while protecting New Zealand's borders.
NZ-based company APVM Electronics Private Ltd has been fined NZ$18,720 following a Customs investigation into the attempted export of more than 9,000 electronic components with potential military applications. Read more: bit.ly/4hry7yQ
A drug courier who tried to smuggle more than 1.6kg of cocaine through Auckland International Airport has been sentenced to 7 years, 4 months in prison. Customs officers found the cocaine hidden in the lining of two suitcases. Read more: bit.ly/4iThbm3
In this week's issue of Customs Release:
- Border Security Bill introduced 📜
- Police x Customs week of action 👮
- Compliance on importing ethyl alcohol ✅
- SUV and light truck tyre classification 🛞
- AKL Airport terminal updates 🛬
mailchi.mp/customs/new-zeala…
Customs and @nzpolice have disrupted the supply of harmful illicit drugs during a coordinated trans-Tasman week of action. Read more here: customs.govt.nz/about-us/new…
This World Maritime Day, Customs is reaffirming that our domestic and international partnerships are our strongest maritime capability. Read further: bit.ly/4ybiaTc
New Zealand and Malaysia’s border authorities @KastamMalaysia and @akpsklia came together last month to share expertise, strengthen operational connections, and explore ways to address shared border security challenges.
Read more here: customs.govt.nz/about-us/new…
A tobacco smuggling couple who evaded an estimated NZ$3.7 million in Customs duties have been jailed after importing/selling approx. 2.5 million cigarettes. Chief Customs Officer Fraud and Prohibition Nigel Barnes said the pair came to NZ to commit crime: bit.ly/4xZmGEf
Today in Wellington, we had the privilege of recognising 21 recipients at our Medals and Long Service Awards ceremony. Our people were honoured for their outstanding service to New Zealand’s border, ranging from 10 to 40 years.
Customs officers have arrested a 25-year-old woman at Auckland International Airport after finding more than 12 kilograms of methamphetamine in her luggage. Read more here
Read more here customs.govt.nz/about-us/new…
Today, in our official newsletter, Customs Release:
- Compliance on importing ethyl alcohol ✅
- SUV and light truck tyre classification 🛞
- Consultation open: treated seeds 🌱
- AKL Airport terminal updates 🛬
- Seizures & arrests 🚨
mailchi.mp/customs/new-zeala…
Customs officers have seized 43.9 kgs of methamphetamine from a shipping container at the Port of Tauranga, preventing an estimated NZ$13m of drugs from reaching New Zealand communities and approximately NZ$46m in social harm.
🔗 customs.govt.nz/about-us/new…
Today, we proudly recognised 76 Customs colleagues for their commitment and dedication to New Zealand in two Medal and Long Service Awards ceremonies across Auckland. Congratulations to all.
Customs has arrested a 24-year-old British national after uncovering approximately 16.8kg of meth during a baggage search at AKL International Airport. He faces charges of importing a Class A controlled drug and assaulting Customs officers.
Read further: bit.ly/4A1rFFW

































