Our friends across the Tasman at Shipping New Zealand have provided an update of commercial maritime / regulatory matters in New Zealand.
A big thank you to Shipping New Zealand! You can visit their website here.
Sinking Cruise Industry: NZ Cruise Industry seeks government intervention to turn around the failing sector (find out more).
Shipping industry concerns over government consultation: Shipping New Zealand has raised concerns with NZ Customs about their implementation of a new vessel fee (in conjunction with MPI), effective 1 April 2026, without meaningful consultation. Many members are worried about the broader implications for the industry and the public. Since roughly 99% of New Zealand’s goods are transported by sea, additional costs on shipping could affect the entire supply chain and ultimately the taxpayer (find out more).
Seafarer visa issues: Seafarers arriving by sea are only “deemed to hold a visa” and are allowed to stay in New Zealand for 28 days. After this period, they must apply for Special Purpose Work Visas, which mainly affects dry bulk vessels. Delays due to port congestion or weather can force operators to apply for these visas, costing approximately NZ$30,000 per vessel. The application requirements are complex, and it is unclear what protection the visa provides. Industry continues to work with the government for meaningful changes (find out more).
Biofouling issues: Biofouling continues to cause trade problems. Some operators avoid New Zealand due to costs or perceived risks, while others face additional costs to comply. Earlier this year, MPI consulted on updating the Biosecurity Act 1993, including powers to regulate biofouling in New Zealand’s EEZ (12–200nm). This could restrict where vessels can clean outside NZ territorial waters. Industry consultation was good, but opposition remains, and the matter is with Ministers for a decision (find out more).
Parliamentary inquiry into the ports & maritime sector: Launched in May 2025, the inquiry by the Transport and Infrastructure Committee assesses economic contribution, infrastructure, regulation, workforce, and security. The government aims to boost productivity and economic performance to benefit exporters and importers. Ports are increasingly expensive, and poor productivity makes it difficult for operators to maintain schedules and meet customer needs (find out more).
