New Zealand Visa RequirementsFor China passport holders
Chinese citizens need a visa to visit New Zealand. The NZeTA is not available to Chinese passport holders; a standard visitor visa costing approximately $170 USD is required.
China passport holders require a visa to enter New Zealand.
Apply for a New Zealand Visitor Visa at Immigration New Zealand online portal (immigration.govt.nz) or at the New Zealand Embassy or Consulate in China. The fee is approximately NZD 260 (about $165-175 USD). Required documents: valid Chinese passport, travel itinerary, return flight booking, hotel accommodation bookings, proof of sufficient funds (bank statements showing NZD 1,000 per month of stay or credit card), employment or income proof, and evidence of ties to China. Processing typically takes 25 working days for applications submitted from China.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
Valid Chinese Passport
Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond planned stay in New Zealand
New Zealand Visitor Visa
Apply online at immigration.govt.nz; fee ~NZD 260 (~$170 USD); processing ~25 working days
Return Flight Booking
Confirmed return or onward flight from New Zealand
Hotel/Accommodation Bookings
Confirmed accommodation for duration of stay
Proof of Sufficient Funds
Bank statements showing NZD 1,000 per month of planned stay or valid credit card
Proof of Employment/Income
Employment letter and recent payslips or business documentation
Current Travel Situation
China to New Zealand: What You Need to Know
New Zealand is a popular destination for Chinese citizens, with significant Chinese diaspora communities in Auckland and Christchurch, strong university ties (Chinese are a major international student group), and the country's stunning natural landscapes featured in the Lord of the Rings films. Chinese citizens cannot use the simplified NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) system , they must apply for a standard Visitor Visa (subclass FV) through Immigration New Zealand. New Zealand and China have a strong free trade agreement and bilateral relations, though like Australia, have navigated some tensions in recent years.
How to Get There
Australia and New Zealand are commonly combined — the trans-Tasman flight between Sydney and Auckland takes about 3 hours. A combined Australia-New Zealand visa trip is a popular itinerary for Chinese visitors. Within New Zealand, the South Island (Fiordland/Milford Sound, Queenstown, Aoraki/Mt Cook) and North Island (Auckland, Rotorua, Tongariro) offer contrasting experiences.
Money & Banking
New Zealand uses the New Zealand dollar (NZD). UnionPay cards are accepted at many businesses in Auckland and tourist areas, given the large Chinese visitor market. ATMs in major cities accept UnionPay. New Zealand is expensive — accommodation ranges NZD 100-300/night; restaurant meals NZD 20-40/person. Budget travelers use YHA hostels (NZD 30-50/night in dorms). New Zealand is considerably more expensive than comparable Southeast Asian destinations.
Practical Tips
New Zealand is a long-haul flight from China , approximately 10-12 hours from Shanghai or Beijing. Air New Zealand and Air China operate direct routes. New Zealand drives on the left side of the road. The Lord of the Rings and Hobbit film locations draw significant Chinese tourist interest , Hobbiton in Matamata is a popular stop. Bioluminescent glow-worm caves at Waitomo are unique. Geothermal activity in Rotorua includes hot springs, geysers, and Maori cultural experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Chinese citizens need a visa for New Zealand?
Yes. Chinese passport holders must apply for a New Zealand Visitor Visa. The NZeTA (simplified electronic travel authority) is not available to Chinese citizens. Apply online at immigration.govt.nz. The fee is approximately NZD 260 (~$170 USD).
How long does a New Zealand visa take for Chinese applicants?
Processing typically takes about 25 working days (5 weeks) for applications submitted from China. Apply well in advance of your travel date.
Can I combine New Zealand and Australia on the same trip?
Yes. Australia and New Zealand are commonly visited together. You need separate visas for each country , Australian Visitor Visa (subclass 600) for Australia and NZ Visitor Visa for New Zealand. Both countries' visas can be applied for in advance of your trip.