Moving from Europe
to New Zealand
Relocating to New Zealand from Europe is a big adventure — and getting your household goods there affordably is easier than you might think. With Simplo's groupage service, your belongings share a container with other shipments heading on the same route. You pay only for the space you use, while we manage the entire journey from collection in Europe to delivery at your New Zealand address.
We serve all major New Zealand ports including Auckland, Tauranga, Wellington, Lyttelton (Christchurch), and Port Chalmers (Dunedin).
Calculate my moving cost
Why use groupage for your move to New Zealand?
New Zealand is one of the longest-haul destinations from Europe, which makes cost control particularly important. Groupage — sharing container space — is the most practical and affordable option for most household moves. Our Rotterdam hub has regular sailings to New Zealand, keeping consolidation times reasonable.
Key benefits
- You only pay for the cubic metres you use
- Regular sailings from Rotterdam to New Zealand's main ports
- Flexible collection from anywhere in Europe
- MPI biosecurity and NZCS customs clearance fully managed
- Door-to-door delivery to both North and South Island
- Optional packing, storage, and insurance
Transit times — Europe to New Zealand
New Zealand is one of the longest sea freight routes from Europe. Typical door-to-door times:
| Route | Transit time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Europe → Auckland / Tauranga (NI) | 10-14 weeks | Groupage incl. consolidation |
| Europe → Wellington | 10-14 weeks | Via Tauranga or Lyttelton |
| Europe → Christchurch / Dunedin (SI) | 11-15 weeks | Longer routing to South Island |
Note: Sea transit from Northern Europe to New Zealand is approximately 35–40 days (port-to-port). Total doorto-door time includes consolidation (1–3 weeks) and MPI biosecurity clearance (1–2 weeks on arrival).
New Zealand customs and biosecurity — what you need to know
New Zealand has strict biosecurity rules enforced by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). Simplo prepares all documentation and works with MPI-approved agents at every New Zealand port.
What is duty-free
- Used household goods owned and used for at least 12 months qualify for duty-free entry
- Personal effects, furniture, clothing, appliances, and electronics are eligible
- Vehicles can be shipped but require specific compliance with NZTA standards
Biosecurity requirements — strict in New Zealand
- All goods must be clean and free from soil, seeds, plant matter, and organic material
- Outdoor items (garden furniture, tools, footwear, sports equipment, bikes) must be thoroughly cleaned
- Wooden items may require treatment or inspection
- Food items including honey, seeds, and fresh produce are generally prohibited
- Second-hand packaging materials with traces of plant or animal material may be rejected
Key documents required
- Unaccompanied Personal Effects declaration form (completed on or before arrival)
- Detailed itemised inventory with declared values
- Copy of passport and valid New Zealand visa or residency document
- Proof of overseas residency and ownership of goods for duty-free eligibility
Simplo reviews your inventory before shipment to flag any items that may cause delays at New Zealand biosecurity inspection.
How your move works,
step by step
1. Get an instant quote
Enter your origin country, destination, and estimated volume. Our calculator gives you an immediate price estimate for your groupage move to New Zealand.
2. We plan your shipment
Once you confirm, we match your shipment with others on the same route. Your collection date is scheduled at a time that works for you.
3. Collection and consolidation
We collect your belongings from anywhere in Europe and consolidate them at our hub near Rotterdam, ready for ocean freight.
4. Ocean freight
Your container departs on a scheduled service. We track progress and keep you informed throughout the transit.
5. Customs clearance
Our local partner at the destination port handles all customs and biosecurity documentation on your behalf.
6. Door-to-door delivery
Your goods are transported from the port to your final address. Optional unpacking and storage are available.
Additional services
Alongside the core groupage service, you can add:
- Professional packing at your home
- Packing materials supplied in advance
- Short- or long-term storage at origin or destination
- Transit insurance coverage
- Vehicle shipping alongside household goods
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to move from Europe to New Zealand?
Pricing is based on volume. New Zealand is a long-haul route so costs are higher than shorter destinations — but groupage keeps it significantly more affordable than booking a full container. Use our instant quote tool for a real estimate.
How long does shipping from Europe to New Zealand take?
Door-to-door groupage typically takes 10–15 weeks including consolidation and biosecurity clearance. We recommend booking at least 12 weeks before your ideal delivery date.
What are New Zealand's biosecurity rules?
MPI inspects all household goods for organic matter including soil, seeds, wood, and food. Items must be clean before packing. Simplo provides a pre-shipment checklist so nothing is held up on arrival.
Can I ship my car to New Zealand?
Yes, but New Zealand vehicle import rules are strict. Vehicles must meet NZTA (Waka Kotahi) standards and will be inspected on arrival. Left-hand drive vehicles require conversion. We advise on eligibility and compliance before shipping.
Do you collect from all European countries?
Yes — we collect from all European countries. Goods are consolidated at our hub near Rotterdam before sailing to New Zealand.
Ready to move?
Start your groupage quote and get an instant estimate for your overseas move.
Start your groupage quote