Apply for a certificate to import explosives
To import explosives already approved for use in New Zealand, you need an explosives import certificate.
You may also need a:
- Controlled Substance Licence
- Certified Handler Certificate
- Location Compliance Certificate
To find out if you need a Controlled Substance Licence, a Certified Handler Certificate, or a Location Compliance Certificate, contact WorkSafe New Zealand.
Read our guide explaining how to import explosives into New Zealand (PDF, 480 KB)
Download an Explosives Import Certificate application form (DOCX, 449 KB)
Send your application to us by:
- email to: explosives@epa.govt.nz
- post to: Hazardous Substances Applications Team, Environmental Protection Authority, Private Bag 63002, Wellington 6011, New Zealand.
Read our general guidance for importers and manufacturers
Processing time
Applications are usually processed within 10 working days or less after payment is received. If we need more information, the processing time will be longer.
Find out about our application fees and charges
Please note that from September each year we receive more applications than usual as people prepare for the lead-up to Guy Fawkes in early November. Applications may take longer to process during this time.
Explosives that do not need an import certificate
There are some explosives that do not need an import certificate, including:
- pyrotechnic novelties or noise-makers (such as party poppers, Christmas crackers, ring-caps for toy guns)
- model rocket motors
- emergency flares and signalling devices
- safety ammunition
- some low-hazard specialised explosives.
Please note that some of these exempt explosives may need an Approved Handler Certificate and/or a Location Compliance Certificate from WorkSafe New Zealand.
A full list of explosives that do not need an import certificate are listed in the following pieces of legislation:
- Schedule 7, Table 2 of the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017 - New Zealand Legislation website. This does not include retail fireworks.
- Section 4(2) of the Hazardous Substances (Fireworks) Regulations 2001) - New Zealand Legislation website.
Retail fireworks
All retail fireworks, including novelty pyrotechnics such as Christmas crackers and party poppers, still need testing by an approved Fireworks Certifier.