New Zealand Expands eGate Access to 11 More Countries: What Travel Agents Need to Know

Faster, Smarter Travel to New Zealand in 2025

New Zealand has just made border crossings smoother and smarter. On May 26, 2025, the New Zealand Customs Service announced an expansion of its automated eGate system, now accessible to citizens of 11 additional countries and territories. This tech-driven upgrade marks a significant step in modernising travel for eligible international visitors.

For travel agents, corporate planners, and consolidators, this change means faster processing, reduced wait times, and added value for clients seeking seamless arrivals into New Zealand.

What Are eGates and How Do They Work?

eGates are self-service immigration kiosks that use facial recognition to match a traveller’s live image with their biometric passport. Available at Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, and Queenstown airports, they eliminate the need for face-to-face immigration checks—perfect for high-traffic entry points.

To qualify for eGate use, travellers must:

• Be 10 years or older

• Hold a valid biometric (ePassport)

• Complete the NZ Traveller Declaration (NZTD) before arrival

Pro Tip for Travellers: Avoid wearing hats, oversized glasses, or anything that could obstruct facial recognition.

The 11 New eGate-Eligible Countries (2025 Update)

Here are the newly added countries and territories now eligible to use New Zealand’s eGate system:

• Europe: Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, Vatican City

• Asia: Macao

• Middle East: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, United Arab Emirates

This brings the total to 48 eligible countries, making New Zealand’s border control among the most tech-forward in the Asia-Pacific region.

Full List: All 48 eGate-Eligible Countries (as of 2025)

 Don’t Skip This: NZTD Is Mandatory for All Travellers

Since August 2023, all visitors must fill out the New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) before arrival. This digital form captures travel, customs, and health details.

Complete it via:

• travellerdeclaration.govt.nz

• Or download the NZTD app from the App Store or Google Play

As of April 2024, maritime arrivals must also complete NZTD.

Reminder for Visa-Waiver Travellers: NZeTA Still Required

If your client is from a visa-waiver country, they’ll need to apply for the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before travelling.

NZeTA Costs (2025):

• App: 17 NZD + 100 NZD IVL = 117 NZD

• Website: 23 NZD + 100 NZD IVL = 123 NZD

Apply via the official NZeTA site or app stores.

What This Means for B2B Travel Professionals

According to Paul Williams, Acting Group Manager of Border Operations, over 70% of international arrivals now pass through eGates.

This expansion allows travel consultants to:

• Offer faster processing assurances to clients

• Help streamline group travel itineraries

• Reduce delays and immigration stress for corporate travellers
  
  

Final Takeaway

New Zealand’s latest eGate update reflects a growing trend toward contactless, tech-driven travel. By embracing automation and expanding access, the country enhances its global tourism appeal.

For B2B travel professionals, staying current on eGate eligibility, NZTD procedures, and NZeTA policies is key to delivering seamless, informed service in 2025 and beyond.

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