Chartering in New Zealand

The New Zealand Customs Service Fact Sheet 32 Yacht and Small Craft Arrivals states that a vessel entering New Zealand under a temporary import entry (TIE) may be chartered for a short period of the stay.  This is granted on a case-by-case basis, and subject to the proviso that the charter work must take up less than 65% of the vessel's time in New Zealand.  Customs should be advised on entry of the vessel that commercial charter work will be undertaken. 

In addition, in order to conduct commercial chartering in New Zealand, an exemption from the requirements of the Maritime Operator Safety System (MOSS) must be obtained from Maritime New Zealand.

This is a complex process and prospective charterers should seek legal advice prior to entry.

Worldwide travel limitations as a result of Covid-19 have restricted the movement of private vessels in New Zealand on a TIE.  Because of this, New Zealand Customs has made a decision to provide a blanket extension to all TIEs that are due to expire until 1 September 2020.  Customs will reassess this extension in the coming weeks, however if you wish to apply for an extension to a TIE beyond September 1st, you must apply to Customs.  Any extension requests will be considered on a case by case basis.

For advice on the separate process that Customs have implemented for prospective charter vessels' entry into New Zealand, contact Peter Dawson at peter@maritimelaw.co.nz or on +64 (3) 544 1967.