New Zealand Customs Makes Changes to TIE Requirements

May 16, 2026
New Zealand Customs is making changes to the Temporary Import Entry (TIE) requirements for yachts and small craft wanting to enter the country. The changes, which will take effect from September 1 this year, include a new electronic form to be used by anyone wanting to apply for TIE for their vessel and a change to the maximum stay granted under a TIE.
Published 5 days ago

Source:  New Zealand Customs

C4G removal from 1 September 2026

New Zealand Customs have advised that the paper temporary import entry (TIE) called a C4G will be replaced by an electronic TIE from 1 September 2026. Until that date a completed C4G entry will still be required.

From 1 September form NZCS 274 will provide the information needed to complete the electronic TIE.  Use NZCS 274 if you are bringing a small craft into New Zealand temporarily. This form, along with supporting documentation, can be provided at any time prior to the craft departing the last international port on the way to New Zealand. Submitting the form around a week to one month before departure is recommended.

Providing this information in advance may allow NZ Customs to prepare your entry documentation in advance and wherever possible reduce processing time when you arrive.

The completed NZCS 274 form and any supporting documents should be emailed to yachts@customs.govt.nz

Change in TIE conditions

The maximum stay granted under a TIE has changed from 24 months to 21 months. This change ensures vessels in New Zealand under a TIE have safe departure window outside recognised south-west pacific cyclone seasons.

These changes are now on the Yachts and small craft page on the customs website Travel to and from New Zealand by small craft which outlines everything needed for people bringing small craft to New Zealand.

Great Mercury Island, New Zealand. Image (c) Lynda Lim – Noonsite.

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