How to ship products from Japan to New Zealand

Japan and New Zealand have enjoyed a strong and steadily developing trade partnership for decades, strengthened through agreements like the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). Ranking within the top five import sources to New Zealand, products such as machinery, electrical equipment, cars and car parts are among the top imports from Japan, reflecting the country’s ongoing reliance on Japanese innovation.¹

For businesses looking to import products from Japan, this relationship creates a prime opportunity. As New Zealand’s import market expands and consumer expectations shift toward quality-driven purchasing, shipping from Japan to NZ has become even more attractive. Businesses that understand how to ship from Japan to New Zealand efficiently can gain a competitive edge, grow their brand presence, and keep up with the latest e-commerce trends.

New Zealand’s import & e-commerce landscape

New Zealand’s e-commerce market continues to grow year after year, and is expected to reach NZ$17.6 billion by 2028.2  This growth is driven by increases in online purchases across both domestic and cross-border channels, benefiting sellers who want to enter the market through online storefronts, marketplaces, or direct-to-consumer (DTC) channels.

Japanese imports, in particular, have become more popular as Kiwi buyers seek reliability, precision engineering, and well-regarded global brands. Shipping from Japan to New Zealand is now common for categories such as premium electronics, gaming accessories, collectible goods, hobby products, and automotive parts. As shoppers become more comfortable with international deliveries, businesses that know how to import products from Japan can meet this growing demand and establish long-term customer relationships.

What do New Zealand consumers buy from Japan?

Japanese products have a strong reputation globally, and it’s no exception in New Zealand. In 2024, New Zealand imports from Japan totaled US $2.68 billion.³ Consumers associate Japanese manufacturing with durability, innovation, consistency and high safety standards. These characteristics influence buying decisions across multiple categories.

Popular products to import from Japan include vehicles and automotive parts, machinery, electronics, cosmetics, personal care items, and premium packaged foods. Niche demand has also increased due to cultural influences: the rise of Japanese entertainment, gaming, animation and lifestyle products has boosted interest in specialized imports. Seasonal demand spikes can occur around events such as Christmas, back-to-school season, and the release of major anime or gaming titles. 

For businesses deciding on the types of products to import from Japan, these preferences can guide product selection and marketing strategy.

Key online marketplaces & shopping channels in New Zealand

Choosing the right channels is a critical step when learning how to import goods from Japan and sell them to Kiwi consumers. New Zealand businesses commonly sell Japanese products through major online marketplaces such as Trade Me, Amazon New Zealand, and Mighty Ape, as well as niche category-specific retailers. These platforms make it easy for local sellers to introduce high-quality Japanese goods to the market without needing a physical storefront, supporting seamless cross-border e-commerce and faster market entry.

With the rising level of mobile commerce usage in New Zealand, it becomes imperative for businesses to adopt digital wallet payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay for seamless online transactions. For importers of Japanese goods, this means creating clear product listings, offering transparent shipping options, and providing reassurance about delivery times to boost conversion rates.

Import regulations & customs in New Zealand

Besides knowing how long shipping from Japan takes, understanding import regulations is essential when shipping Japanese products to New Zealand. Goods brought into the country are subject to a Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 15%, and some categories may also incur customs duty depending on the type of item and its classification under HS codes. When planning Japan to New Zealand shipping cost estimates, businesses should consider landed cost: the combination of freight charges, the value of the goods, insurance, GST and any potential duties.

New Zealand has clear guidelines for importers and maintains strict biosecurity rules. Exporters should review NZ Customs regulations before shipping from Japan to NZ, especially if sending food, cosmetics, medicinal products, plants or animal-derived items. Declaring goods accurately using correct HS codes ensures faster clearance and reduces the risk of delays.

Documentation required for shipping from Japan to New Zealand

Successful cross-border shipping requires complete and accurate documentation. Exporters preparing to ship from Japan to New Zealand should gather the following:

• A commercial Invoice with precise product information and values
• An air waybill detailing shipment specifics
• A packing list listing weights, dimensions and quantities
• A Certificate of Origin if preferential tariff rates apply
• Required import permits for restricted items

Businesses can simplify this process by using DHL’s MyGTS tool to look up HS codes and estimate duties before shipping. Clear documentation is especially important for businesses learning how to import products from Japan for the first time.

Restricted & prohibited items

New Zealand’s tightly regulated biosecurity environment means some products require additional permits, while others are not allowed at all. Items such as certain foods, seeds, plants, medicines, animal products and alcohol may require government approval. Fully prohibited goods include hazardous materials, counterfeit items and certain biological goods. 

Shipping costs & delivery options

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how much it costs to ship something from Japan: shipping costs will depend on shipment weight, size, packaging and the speed of service selected.

Express shipping solutions typically offer faster delivery for time-sensitive products and provide full tracking visibility throughout the journey. Japan to New Zealand shipping costs may also include options such as Delivered Duty Paid, where sellers pay duties and GST on behalf of the customer for a smoother purchasing experience.

Tips for successful shipping to New Zealand

Businesses preparing to ship from Japan to New Zealand should follow these best practices:

• Ensure HS codes and customs declarations are accurate
• Calculate GST and potential duties ahead of time
• Provide transparent delivery, cost and payment information
• Strengthen packaging to prevent damage during long-distance transit
• Leverage seasonal sales events such as Black Friday and Christmas

Whether shipping large B2B orders or exploring how to import goods from Japan for direct-to-consumer sales, these steps improve efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Why choose DHL Express for shipping from Japan to New Zealand

DHL Express offers reliable export services with full tracking visibility, making it easy to send an international parcel or streamline shipments through a courier service in New Zealand. With strong customs clearance capabilities and a well-established global network, DHL helps businesses overcome common challenges associated with import export activities. 

For Kiwi businesses looking to start importing goods from Japan and expanding internationally, shipping with DHL helps to ensure consistent and predictable delivery performance. Open a business account with DHL and discover the difference we can make to your business today.