1 Feb 2026

Government drops part of Border Processing Levy by 30%

6:58 pm on 1 February 2026
Group of people inside airport

Biosecurity New Zealand will also invest in new border technology and more detector dogs. Photo: Unsplash

The biosecurity part of the Border Processing Levy has dropped by 30 percent.

It has reduced from $16.92 to $12.03 for incoming air passengers.

The Border Processing Levy funds x-ray screening, detector dogs and other protections.

Biosecurity New Zealand had raised it to cover border costs and rebuild operations after Covid-19.

Caucus & Bridge

Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard says Biosecurity New Zealand has set aside funding for a new digital border programme. Photo: RNZ / Mark Papalii

Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard said those costs were now paid off, with air travel recovering faster than expected.

"It's great to be in a position to ease costs on international travellers and Kiwis coming home, while still keeping our border safe from environmental and economic threats," he said.

Biosecurity New Zealand will also invest in new border technology and more detector dogs.

Hoggard said it had set aside funding for a new digital border programme that would build on the introduction of the New Zealand Traveller Declaration, as well as deliver smarter passenger processing and new x-ray technology.

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