Do I Need a Vaccine to Travel to New Zealand?

New Zealand vaccination requirements for travelers in 2025

4 min read

Updated on Aug 11, 2025

Summary

New Zealand doesn’t require any mandatory vaccines for entry, but staying up to date on routine jabs like MMR, tetanus, and flu is strongly recommended.

This guide breaks down everything travelers need to know about vaccine recommendations, yellow fever rules, and long-stay health tips.

Whether you’re visiting for a short holiday or planning an extended stay, we’ll help you get travel-ready with confidence; no guesswork, just facts.

Planning to hike through Hobbiton, cruise past glaciers, or enjoy a good flat white in Wellington? Before you book your flight to New Zealand, it’s worth checking the latest health advice. While there are no required vaccinations to enter the country, there are a few smart steps to take before your trip.

We've rounded up everything you need to know so you can travel with confidence, knowing your health prep is in order.

Current vaccination requirements for New Zealand

New Zealand does not require any mandatory vaccinations to enter the country. That includes COVID-19 and yellow fever. However, the Ministry of Health strongly recommends that all travelers are up to date on routine vaccinations before arrival.

Recommended vaccines for travelers

Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
Diphtheria-Tetanus-Polio (DTP)
Influenza (seasonal flu shot)
Hepatitis A and B (especially for longer stays or rural travel)
Varicella (chickenpox), if you’ve never had it

Bringing proof of your vaccination history is optional but useful. Some tour operators or medical providers may ask for it during your trip.

iVisa tip: Save a digital copy of your vaccination record on your phone and pack a printed version just in case.

Yellow fever vaccine requirements

New Zealand does not require proof of yellow fever vaccination, even if you're arriving from a risk country. That said, if you've recently traveled through an affected region, it's a good idea to be vaccinated for your own protection.

Vaccines for long-term visitors

If you're heading to New Zealand on a working holiday visa, student visa, or planning to stay for several months, speak with a travel health clinic before you go. A visit at least 4 to 6 weeks before departure can help you identify any extra vaccinations you might need based on your lifestyle and planned activities.

Travelers staying in remote areas, engaging in farm work, or spending a lot of time outdoors may benefit from additional vaccines or health precautions.

Health documentation for New Zealand entry

While no vaccine certificates are required, there are a few health-related documents and processes to be aware of.

Document	Required?	Notes
COVID-19 Vaccine Certificate	Not required	No longer checked at the border
Yellow Fever Certificate	Not required	Not needed for any travelers
Routine Vaccination Record	Optional	Helpful to carry but not checked
Traveller Declaration	Required	Must be completed online before arrival
Travel Insurance	Strongly recommended	Should cover health emergencies and trip disruptions

iVisa tip: We can help you complete your Traveller Declaration and make sure everything is filled out correctly before you fly.

Why travel insurance matters

Vaccines protect your health, and travel insurance protects your wallet. Medical care in New Zealand is excellent, but it can be expensive for tourists. Make sure your policy includes:

Emergency medical treatment
Trip cancellation and interruption
Coverage for COVID-19 related costs
Adventure activity coverage, if you're planning hikes, skydives, or other outdoor thrills

Bonus tip: Many travelers choose policies that include mental health support and lost luggage coverage, just to be safe.

Do you need an NZ ETA?

Most travelers to New Zealand also need an NZ ETA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority), even if you are just passing through on a layover.

Check whether or not you require a visa or ETA here:

We make the NZeTA application process easy and fast. You’ll receive step-by-step instructions, get help uploading documents, and avoid common delays.

Key facts about the NZ ETA

Required for visitors from visa-waiver countries
Valid for multiple entries over two years
Easy to apply online through iVisa
Cruise passengers also need one

“I had no idea what to do, but iVisa made it simple. I got my NZ ETA without stress. Highly recommend!” – Sarah, USA

Apply for your NZ ETA now

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