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.
Background information on the Length of Stay Timeframe Change
In response to questions from Noonsite about the length of stay change from 24 months to 21 months, NZ Customs provided the following background information:
NZ Customs previously extended the general temporary import entry (TIE) period for vessels from 12 to 24 months around 10–12 years ago. This was to give vessel owners more time to leave New Zealand before their TIE expired, and to help them depart ahead of the south-west Pacific cyclone season.
However, this change did not lead to all vessels leaving within a safe or suitable timeframe. Instead, Customs continued to receive requests for TIE extensions due to the approaching cyclone season, effectively shifting the issue by one year.
The updated maximum stay of 21 months is designed to better align with typical sailing patterns and safety considerations. It does not require vessels to depart exactly at 21 months, but sets a clear maximum period for a temporary stay.
In practice, the safest time for vessels to depart New Zealand for the Pacific Islands (generally Fiji) is between late April and June. Most vessels return between October and November, although some variation occurs. The 21-month period allows for this flexibility.
This change was developed following consultation and reflects feedback from the New Zealand boating industry.
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