Imported Food

Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) is responsible for processing applications for all high risk foods imported into New Zealand as referred from New Zealand Customs.

The Auckland Central Clearing House (ACCH) as part of ARPHS, is contracted to carry out the day to day operational procedures on behalf of The New Zealand Food Safety Authority (NZFSA). ACCH is also the initial contact point for information to importers and customs brokers.

Before being released to the domestic market, imported foods must meet the Standard Management Rule (SMR). High risk foods that may require further inspection or sampling are referred to a Designated Food Act Officer for further inspection and sampling.

Alternatively, importers may obtain a clearance by providing approved certification from the exporting country.

Further information on high risk foods and the SMR can be found on the NZFSA website.

NZFSA Application Forms and Publications

Application forms and Imported Products Criteria

Contacts

For further information relating to imported products, please contact:

• Auckland Regional Public Health Office on (09) 623 4600 or
• the Auckland Central Clearing House on (09) 261 1620.

• Food Act 1981
• Food Safety Regulations 2002
• Food (Fees and Charges) Regulations 1997
• Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code
• Imported Food Standard Management Rule

ARPHS no longer publishes the Food Safety and Imported Products Advice. This has been replaced by a newsletter called “4 degreesC” that is published by NZFSA along with other food safety publications.