What Happens to Passengers Refused Entry to New Zealand

In recent years, New Zealand has seen a significant increase in the number of passengers being denied entry upon arrival. According to data from Immigration New Zealand (INZ), over 200 individuals were refused entry in 2025 alone, with a total of 2,147 denied entries recorded between June 2022 and May 2025. This article explores the reasons behind these refusals, what happens to the affected passengers, and the financial and operational consequences for airlines.

The Reasons for Refusal

The primary reason for entry refusals is the absence of genuine travel intentions. This includes individuals who intend to stay beyond the legally permitted duration or are deemed likely to breach visa conditions. From June 2022 to May 2025, 1,302 passengers were denied entry for non-genuine reasons. In 2023, this number rose by nearly 300% compared to the previous year, largely due to the reopening of New Zealand’s borders following the pandemic.

Other reasons for refusal include character-related issues, such as criminal convictions or previous deportations. A smaller number of cases involved passengers using forged passports or attempting to enter using a visa or New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) that was only valid for transit. In total, 583 passengers were denied entry for 'other reasons.'

Entry Requirements for New Zealand

To enter New Zealand, passengers must meet strict entry requirements. These include holding a genuine and valid passport, having sufficient funds to support themselves (at least NZ$1,000 per month or $400 if accommodation is prepaid), and demonstrating a genuine reason for visiting. Additionally, travelers must be able to prove their intention and ability to leave the country, typically through a return or onward travel ticket.

Travellers are also expected to refrain from working or earning money in New Zealand unless permitted by their visa. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) ensures that all applicants are assessed on a case-by-case basis against the applicable immigration instructions.

What Happens After a Refusal

When a passenger is denied entry, the process varies slightly depending on the airport. At larger airports like Auckland and Christchurch, INZ provides day room facilities that include showers, toilets, drinking water, internet access, and sleeping arrangements. Passengers without funds are provided with food packs and sanitary items, including nappies for those traveling with infants.

At smaller airports such as Queenstown, Wellington, Dunedin, and Hamilton, where such facilities are not available, INZ aims to return passengers to their last port of embarkation as quickly as possible. If this is not feasible, passengers may be released under residence and reporting requirements (RRRA) or held in police custody pending departure.

Financial Responsibility and Airline Penalties

Airlines are held financially responsible for returning denied passengers if they arrived in New Zealand without a visa, such as those using an NZeTA. In the case of visa holders, INZ covers the cost of the outbound flight. Airlines often allow passengers to use the unused portion of their return ticket to cover these costs.

Between June 2024 and May 2025, INZ spent approximately $97,442 on flights for refused entry passengers. Airlines that fail to meet obligations set by INZ may face fines. These include $1,000 for Advance Passenger Processing (APP) offences and $5,000 for ignoring boarding directives or allowing travel without valid documents.

In the 2023/2024 financial year, INZ issued 145 infringements. Jetstar was the worst repeat offender with 24 infringements, totaling $32,000. Air New Zealand received 17 infringements, costing the national carrier $29,000, while LATAM Airlines incurred $21,000 in fines for 21 infringements.

Conclusion

As New Zealand continues to welcome international travelers, it also remains vigilant in maintaining its entry standards. The process for denying entry and managing the aftermath involves a balance between ensuring national security and providing humane treatment to affected passengers. Airlines also play a critical role in this system, with financial and legal consequences for non-compliance.