Moving back to NZ: a guide for returning Kiwis
Many Kiwis come home after years overseas: to be near family, for the lifestyle, or to raise children in New Zealand. Here is what to arrange for the move itself.
Why Kiwis move back
- To be closer to family and friends
- For the lifestyle and the outdoors
- To raise children in New Zealand
- A job offer or a business back home
Shipping your belongings home
Most returning Kiwis ship their household goods in a shipping container, full or shared. An international mover packs at your old home and delivers to your new one. Ask about transit insurance and how long the shipping takes.
Customs and biosecurity
New Zealand has strict biosecurity rules. Before you pack:
- Clean soil and plant material off shoes, garden tools, bikes and outdoor furniture.
- Do not pack food, plants or seeds without checking the rules.
- Keep a list of what is in each box for your declaration.
- Check the NZ Customs Service and MPI websites for the current rules and any concessions for returning New Zealanders.
When your container arrives
Once your goods clear customs, a local mover can deliver and unload them. You can find movers in every region in our guide.
Questions about moving back to NZ
How do I ship my furniture back to New Zealand?
With an international mover, by sea in a shipping container. A shared container is cheaper for a small move.
What can I bring back into New Zealand?
Most household goods, but New Zealand has strict biosecurity rules. Clean everything that has been outside and check the NZ Customs and MPI websites before you pack.
Checked in October 2026.
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