NZ Customs Release

Issue

818

30 January 2026

Two Auckland men sentenced after exploiting trusted access to smuggle drugs

A recent Customs investigation demonstrates how collaboration with industry and international partners can dismantle serious threats in the supply chain.

The investigation began in April 2023, when Customs officers identified anomalies with imported consignments that appeared to have been tampered with.

Further inquiries revealed that two men, employed within the supply chain at FedEx in Auckland, were abusing their positions in a Customs Controlled Area. They accessed parcels containing methamphetamine and removed the drugs before the parcels were presented to Customs.

Customs investigators worked closely with senior FedEx management and executed search warrants at addresses linked to the men. Further analysis confirmed the scale of the offending and uncovered additional consignments intercepted in the United States containing methamphetamine.

MFAT Market Intelligence Reports

The latest edition of the weekly global trade and economic update for New Zealand businesses has been published.

Upcoming requirements import/export Iran 1 February 2026

Importers, exporters and their agents should familiarise themselves with the upcoming registration requirements in respect of any trade with people and businesses in Iran. The registration will provide a unique permit number to the importer/exporter, which must be used on import and export entries.

From 1 February 2026, New Zealand persons and entities intending to do business with Iran will be required to first register with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The compulsory registration scheme is designed to ensure that legitimate trade with Iran can continue, and that those engaging in such trade exercise the necessary degree of vigilance.

You can submit your application at any time. No fees will apply to registration.

More information and the registration form are available on MFAT's website.

Reduction in MPI's levy on travellers arriving other than by cruise ship

The Ministry for Primary Industries is reducing the Border Processing Levy (sometimes referred to as the Border Clearance Levy) under the Biosecurity Act 1993. This reduction will come into force on 1 February 2026.