Apply for a certificate to import explosives
To import most explosives into New Zealand, you must apply for an import certificate.
If you want to import an explosive that is already approved for use in New Zealand, you must apply for an Explosives Import Certificate.
You may also need a Controlled Substances Licence, a Compliance Handler Certificate, or a Location Compliance Certificate before you can bring your explosive(s) into New Zealand.
Read our guide explaining how to import explosives into New Zealand (PDF, 116KB)
Complete an Explosives Import Certificate application form (DOC, 449KB)
Find out about our application fees and charges
Read our general guidance for importers and manufacturers
Send your application:
- by email to: explosives@epa.govt.nz
- by mail to: Hazardous Substances Applications Team, Environmental Protection Authority, Private Bag 63002, Wellington 6011, New Zealand.
To find out if you need a Controlled Substances Licence, a Compliance Handler Certificate, or a Location Compliance Certificate, contact WorkSafe New Zealand.
Processing time
Applications are usually processed within ten working days after payment is received. If we need more information, the processing time will be longer.
Sometimes we are able to process applications in shorter time frames. However, from September each year – as people prepare for the lead-up to Guy Fawkes in early November – we receive more applications than usual. Applicants should expect a processing time of at least ten working days (two weeks) during this time.
Explosives that do not need an import certificate
Most explosives consignments need an import certificate before they can be imported into New Zealand. There are some exceptions 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.
All retail fireworks, including novelty pyrotechnics such as Christmas crackers and party poppers, still need testing by an approved Fireworks Certifier.