Relocating from the UAE to New Zealand - 5 things to consider

Moving Tips
Moving to New Zealand
Moving from the UAE
International Relocation

Published
April 29th, 2024

Written By 
Baquer Hussain

Baquer is a Senior Consultant for Residential Sales based in our Middle East service hub in Dubai, UAE.
Image of blog author, Baquer Hussain
 
Baquer is a Senior Consultant for Residential Sales at Crown Dubai, UAE. He has over 15 years of experience in the Moving Industry and hails from India. 
Get in touch!
  

Are you planning an international relocation from the UAE to New Zealand? 


Moving to a new country involves careful planning and having the right information and guidance is crucial for a smooth transition. Baquer Hussain, a Residential Sales Consultant from Crown Relocations, shares valuable insights to answer five commonly asked questions about relocating to New Zealand. 

From transit times to customs duties and shipping vehicles, we've got you covered.

1. Transit Times for Sea Shipments to New Zealand


Understanding the transit times for sea shipments is essential for effective planning. You should allow 10 to 12 weeks for a shipment to reach your new home. For moves from Abu Dhabi and Dubai, Crown offers sailing from Jebel Ali to the ports of Auckland, Christchurch, Napier, Wellington or Tauranga - depending on your final destination.

Important Note: There are no direct sailings from the UAE to New Zealand meaning that your container will be transhipped at Singapore, Kaoshung or Port Klang.

The door-to-door transit times include:

  • Time at sea: 35-45 days  from port to port 
  • 3 to 5 working days in the UAE and 15 working days in New Zealand for quarantine inspection and customs clearance.
  • Loading, unloading, and final delivery.

All shipments will be offloaded from the container into Crown Relocation’s customs bonded warehouse and delivered by truck following clearance. 
  

2. Door-to-Door Quotations – Avoiding Surprises


At Crown Relocations, we aim to provide comprehensive quotations for international moves. However, it’s essential to consider potential additional costs at the destination; some common examples include:

Residential Areas: May have access limitations for larger vehicles difficult delivery access, requiring additional shuttle vehicles and/or long carry to transport items. 

Oversized/Heavy Furniture: Consider whether items will fit and can be easily manoeuvred in your new home, particularly upstairs. Additional costs may apply for dismantling and reassembly or access via external windows. 

If you have a final delivery address at the time of enquiry, your dedicated Move Manager will work with you to discuss the details and provide tailored solutions to avoid surprises or unexpected expenses.
  

3. Household Goods Clearance 


If you plan on bringing your personal and household items with you, it’s essential to understand the country’s strict biosecurity laws governing imports. Some items are prohibited, while other items will require inspection on arrival.

Upon arrival in New Zealand all personal effects, including household goods and unaccompanied baggage undergo inspection by both the New Zealand Customs Service and The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). To avoid unnecessary costs and delays, thorough preparation is crucial. 

You can review the list of prohibited and restricted items here.

There is no prohibition against bringing risk goods into New Zealand as long as you declare them. Any declared items should be packed together and will be inspected and may be treated and returned when considered safe. 

Particular attention should be paid to items that have been in contact with food, soil, plants, animals, or their products. They must be thoroughly cleaned and free from contamination.

Here are some common items that require extra attention:

  • Outdoor Footwear
  • Bikes (chain, tyres, under the saddle)
  • Barbeques
  • Camping Equipment
  • Sports Equipment (e.g., Golf clubs, tennis rackets, cricket bats)
  • Garden Furniture
  • Plant Pots
  • Natural Wood Items (especially those with small holes)
  • Christmas Decorations (Pine needles)
  • Vacuum Cleaners
  • Pet Baskets, Blankets or Rugs

For more information, refer to the guide provided by MPI. Access here.  
  

4. Returning New Zealand Residents 


To qualify for a duty-free concession for your household goods, certain criteria must be met. As a returning New Zealand Resident, you must have resided or been domiciled outside of NZ for the whole of the 21-month period preceding your arrival (except for brief holidays or business trips to NZ).

Your household effects must have been “personally owned and used” by you before you depart for NZ. Household effects must be for your own use and not intended for any other person, for gift, or for exchange. 

More details can be found here. 

5. Shipping Vehicles to New Zealand


It is possible to ship a car and/or motorbike, along with your household goods to New Zealand. However, the vehicles and personal effects should have the same owner. Crown Relocations can assist in the transportation, customs clearance, handover, and delivery of your motor vehicle. You will be responsible for mandatory insurance, technical inspection, and registration of the vehicle in New Zealand.

For more information on importing your vehicle into New Zealand, click here.