China-New Zealand Trade Relationship
For many years, China has served as New Zealand’s largest trading partner, top export market, and main source of imports. New Zealand imports key products from China, including:
- Electrical machinery and equipment
- Mechanical machinery
- Vehicles
- Furniture
- Plastics
Shipping Goods from China to New Zealand
The China-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which came into effect in 2008, has accelerated the development of trade in goods, services, and investment cooperation between the two countries.
Before you start importing from China, you must register your business with the New Zealand Companies Office and obtain an Importer’s Code from New Zealand Customs. This requires providing details about your business, such as your Tax ID and a physical address in New Zealand.
Benefits of the China-New Zealand FTA
The China-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement offers high levels of market access for trade in goods. Under this agreement, New Zealand applies zero tariffs on 100% of products imported from China.
To take advantage of the FTA, make sure your Chinese supplier provides a Certificate of Origin (CO). If your supplier cannot provide one, contact TCF to issue a CO for your goods.
Customs Regulations for Goods from China
New Zealand Customs does not collect duties or other fees on goods valued at less than NZ$1,000. However, if the value of your goods exceeds NZ$1,000, you must pay Goods and Services Tax (GST) at a rate of 15% when the goods arrive in New Zealand.
Sea Freight from China to New Zealand
Shipping costs and delivery times between China and New Zealand can vary, but with the right logistics solution, you can avoid high expenses and long delays. TCF offers reliable and cost-effective shipping services customized to meet your specific needs.
Major Container Ports in New Zealand
New Zealand relies heavily on sea transportation for its imports and exports. The country has 13 major ports, with the top three being:
- Tauranga Port (the largest in New Zealand by throughput and container export volume)
- Auckland Port
- Christchurch Port
Other significant ports include:
- Wellington Port
- Nelson Port
- Lyttelton Port
- Napier Port
Sea Freight Costs from China to New Zealand
TCF offers two types of container shipping:
- Consolidated Shipping: Your goods are shipped along with other customers’ cargo, allowing you to pay only for the space you use.
- Exclusive Container Shipping: You use a dedicated container for your goods, which helps you skip the consolidation process and receive your items faster.
For example, shipping a 20ft container from Shenzhen to Auckland costs around $1,000. However, shipping prices depend on factors such as volume, origin, and destination. Contact us for a custom quote by filling out our online form.
Sea Freight Transit Time from China to New Zealand
On average, shipments from Shenzhen to Auckland take around 20 days. Various factors may affect the shipping time, so these estimates should be used as a general guide.
Air Freight from China to New Zealand
For urgent shipments or time-sensitive goods, air freight provides the fastest delivery option, though it is more expensive. Auckland Airport (AKL) serves as the primary entry point for air freight in New Zealand, with cargo distributed across the country via trucking companies and internal flights.
Air Freight Costs from China to New Zealand
TCF offers competitive air freight rates to New Zealand, with daily flights. To receive a quote, please provide details such as the type of commodity, pickup zip code, volume, weight, dimensions, and delivery address or nearest airport.
Air Freight Transit Time from China to New Zealand
- Express Service: 3-5 business days
- Economy Service: 7-10 business days
Services with longer delivery times generally offer lower shipping rates.
Why Choose TCF?
When you expand your business with China, selecting the right shipping partner is crucial. TCF offers comprehensive freight forwarding services to ensure your goods arrive safely and on time.
Whether you require a one-off shipment or a regular service, TCF delivers your goods to your door or port through the most efficient routes. We offer solutions tailored to your shipping needs and ensure your cargo reaches any destination in New Zealand on schedule.