Removals to New Zealand from the UK
Compare quotes from international removal companies that move households to Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Hamilton, Tauranga and Queenstown.
- Professional, vetted moversRegistered, insured and checked
- Compare the quotesPrice, reviews and what is included
- Free, no obligationYou choose who to book
Moving to New Zealand
The longest common sea route from the UK. Plan for several months without your main belongings and consider air freight for essentials.
The move at a glance
| Usual method | Sea freight (shared or full container) |
|---|---|
| Typical transit | About 10 to 16 weeks by sea, door to door |
| Customs | Full customs clearance at the destination |
How your belongings get there
For long-haul moves you can choose a shared container (groupage), paying only for the space you use, or a full container: usually 20ft for a small home or 40ft for a family house. Many people also send a small air freight shipment so that essentials arrive within days.
Customs and import rules
New Zealand's biosecurity rules are strict, similar to Australia's. Clean all outdoor items thoroughly and check what natural products, foods and wooden items are restricted before you pack.
Rules change, so confirm the current requirements with your mover and the official government or customs website for New Zealand before you pack. For exports from the UK, use GOV.UK.
Popular destinations in New Zealand
- Auckland
- Wellington
- Christchurch
- Hamilton
- Tauranga
- Queenstown
Questions to ask an international mover
- Is the quote door to door, or port to port?
- Is it a dedicated load, a shared load or a container, and what volume is it based on?
- Who handles customs paperwork, and is it included?
- What insurance covers my goods for the whole journey, and what is excluded?
- Who delivers at the other end, and how long will it take?
See our guides to removals insurance, getting accurate quotes and what removal companies will not move.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a move from the UK to New Zealand take?
About 10 to 16 weeks by sea door to door is typical, depending on whether you choose a dedicated or shared service and how quickly customs clearance goes. Your mover will give you a timeline for your route.
How are belongings shipped to New Zealand?
Most moves go by sea freight (shared or full container). A shared container is cheaper for smaller moves; a full 20ft or 40ft container suits a whole house.
What paperwork do I need to move to New Zealand?
Expect to provide a detailed inventory, a copy of your passport and evidence of your right to live there, such as a visa or residence registration. Your mover will tell you exactly what they need for customs.
Is my UK removal insurance valid abroad?
Not always. Ask the company what insurance covers your belongings for the whole journey, including any sea crossing, and consider all-risks or marine cover.
Other destinations
