Selling in New Zealand – Market Entry Guide for Overseas Suppliers
New Zealand is a small but valuable market of about 5.3 million people, closely tied to Australia through trade agreements and shared standards. Many suppliers enter Australia and New Zealand together — and Anyco serves customers in both.
This is general information, not legal or tax advice. Check the official sources linked below or ask a professional adviser before acting.
Why New Zealand
- High trust in online shopping and strong demand for products that are hard to find locally.
- Trans-Tasman links. Many Australian standards and the RCM mark are recognised, so products prepared for Australia often need little change for New Zealand.
- Less crowded categories. A smaller market often means less competition for niche products.
Consumer law
- Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 (CGA). Goods must be of acceptable quality, fit for purpose and match their description. Consumers are entitled to remedies when they are not.
- Fair Trading Act 1986. Prohibits misleading and deceptive conduct, unsubstantiated claims and unfair contract terms. The Commerce Commission enforces both.
Product safety
- Product safety standards apply to specific goods, for example toys for young children, children's nightwear, baby walkers, household cots and pedal bicycles.
- Recall notification. Suppliers who voluntarily recall goods for safety reasons must notify the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment within 2 working days. See productsafety.govt.nz.
- Electrical goods must meet New Zealand electrical safety regulations; the RCM is used to show compliance.
Biosecurity
New Zealand's biosecurity is strict. Products containing wood, plant material, seeds, soil, animal products or food may need permits, treatment or inspection under the Ministry for Primary Industries' import health standards.
GST and duty
- GST is 15%.
- Low-value imported goods (NZ$1,000 or less). Overseas sellers must register and collect GST once their sales of these goods (and remote services) to New Zealand consumers exceed NZ$60,000 in 12 months. Marketplaces collect GST on sales made through them.
- Goods over NZ$1,000. Usually cleared through New Zealand Customs, with GST and any duty paid at the border.
See also our GST guide for overseas sellers.
Sales channels
- Trade Me — New Zealand's largest online marketplace.
- Your own website with New Zealand dollar pricing and local delivery information.
- Retail stores through a local distributor.
- A trans-Tasman partner like Anyco — reach New Zealand customers alongside Australia.
Logistics
New Zealand Post and CourierPost, plus private couriers, deliver nationwide. Rural deliveries and the South Island can take longer. Shipping from Australia to New Zealand is fast and frequent.
Next step
Apply to become a supplier, read the Australia guide, or email support@anycostore.com.
Frequently asked questions
Is GST charged on goods sold to New Zealand consumers from overseas?
Yes. New Zealand GST is 15%. For goods valued at NZ$1,000 or less, overseas sellers whose sales to New Zealand consumers exceed NZ$60,000 in a 12-month period must register and collect GST, and marketplaces collect it on sales made through them. Goods over NZ$1,000 are generally taxed at the border.
Is the Australian RCM mark accepted in New Zealand?
Yes. The RCM is used in both Australia and New Zealand to show compliance with electrical safety and radiocommunications requirements.
What is the biggest online marketplace in New Zealand?
Trade Me is New Zealand's largest online marketplace.
Can I sell to New Zealand through an Australian partner?
Yes. Anyco serves customers in both Australia and New Zealand, so one partnership can cover both markets.