NZ Customs Service

The New Zealand Customs Service (Customs) is the government agency with the job of protecting the community from potential risks arising from international trade and travel, while facilitating the legitimate movement of people and goods across the border.  Since 1841, Customs has seen many changes as to how they monitor and interdict possible breaches at the border.  One such change has been the introduction of the Internet.  Suddenly people can view, order and pay for goods from the other side of the world and in just days, these goods arrive at their door.  In some cases, items are delivered instantly as they can be downloaded on the spot.

The enforcement role of Customs is made possible through the application of the Customs and Excise Act 1996 (CEA).  One of the many areas investigated by Customs is that of objectionable publications ordered/downloaded over the Internet.  In deciding what is 'objectionable' and therefore prohibited from being imported, Customs applies the Films, Videos and Publications Classification Act 1993 (FVPCA).

With recent amendments to the CEA, penalties for offences can reach five years imprisonment.  Prosecution of these offenders is regular. 

Customs works alongside the New Zealand Police and the Department of Internal Affairs with many of its investigations.  While each has their area of responsibility, the Internet and the application of the FVPCA transverses all three government agencies and much has been achieved through this liaison.  This communication also extends to Interpol and various government agencies around the world.

Any information you have that may assist the Customs Service can be sent to feedback@customs.govt.nz, or you can call them on 0800 4customs / 0800 428786.

Many thanks to the NZ Customs Service for this article.