New rules are making travel easier for some visitors from China and Pacific Island nations. If you already have an eligible Australian visa and are in Australia, you may be able to visit New Zealand Visa without applying for a full visitor visa. Instead, you travel with a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority. Below I explain the change step by step, who can use it, how to fill the NZeTA Application Form, how to check your NZeTA Status, what it costs, and what to carry when you travel. I have written this in simple English so it is easy to follow.

What changed? A simple explanation

New Zealand started a 12-month trial that lets eligible travellers from China and Pacific Island countries come to New Zealand from Australia and stay up to three months without a visitor visa. Instead of a visa, you need an approved NZeTA. This new path makes it faster and cheaper for many people who would otherwise need to apply for a full New Zealand Visa. The trial only applies when you travel from Australia and when your Australian visa is one of the eligible types. If you arrive directly from China or another country, the normal New Zealand Visa rules still apply.

Who can use this new route?

Here is an easy checklist:

• You hold a passport from China or a Pacific Islands Forum country.

• You are travelling to New Zealand from Australia (not just passing through).

• You hold an eligible Australian visa (for example visitor, student, work or certain family visas).

• You have an approved NZeTA before you travel.

If any of these items is missing, you usually must apply for a standard New Zealand Visa instead of using the NZeTA route.

How to apply for the NZeTA (step-by-step)

1. Choose how to apply. Use the official NZeTA app on your phone or the online site. Many people find the app easiest because it can auto-scan passport details.

2. Fill the NZeTA Application Form. Enter your name, passport details, travel dates, and answer health and character questions. Take care typing your passport number — small mistakes can slow things down. The NZeTA Application Form is short but important.

3. Pay the fees. There is a small fee for the NZeTA plus the visitor conservation levy. Pay by card when you apply.

4. Wait for approval. Most decisions are quick, but apply at least 72 hours before travel when possible.

5. Save your reference. After approval you will get a reference number. Keep this safe — you may need it to show airline staff or border officers.

Because this trial is designed to reduce the need for a full New Zealand Visa, the NZeTA route is usually faster and cheaper for people who qualify.

How to check your NZeTA Status

After you apply, you can check the progress using the official check page. Use your reference number or passport details to look up your NZeTA Status. If the system asks for more information, follow the instructions right away. Checking your NZeTA Status before travel helps avoid surprises at the airport.

What it will cost you

• NZeTA fee (small application fee).

• International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (a set amount paid when you request the NZeTA or visa).

Overall, using the NZeTA route is usually cheaper than applying for a full New Zealand Visa, especially when time and processing speed matter.

Practical travel tips — make your trip stress-free

• Apply early. Even if approvals are usually fast, apply well before your travel date.

• Bring proof of funds and return tickets. Border officers sometimes ask for evidence you can support your stay and that you will leave on time.

• Keep copies. Carry a printed or digital copy of your NZeTA reference, your Australian visa details, and passport.

• Understand work rules. Entry via the NZeTA route is for visiting only — it does not let you take paid work unless your visa allows it.

• Check passport validity. Make sure your passport is valid for the length of stay required by Immigration rules in case you are asked about it.

Following these steps makes using the NZeTA easier than applying for a traditional New Zealand Visa.

What this means for travellers and for New Zealand

For travellers, the change removes a step and lowers cost for many people coming from Australia with an eligible Australian visa. It makes short trips and multi-country plans simpler. For New Zealand, the trial aims to welcome more visitors while still using security checks in the NZeTA system. Officials will watch the results before deciding whether to keep the new rule.

Quick FAQ

Can I use this if I fly directly from China?
No. The trial is for travellers coming from Australia with an eligible Australian visa. If you fly directly from China, you will usually need a standard New Zealand Visa.

Where do I find the NZeTA Application Form?
The NZeTA Application Form is on the official immigration website and in the NZeTA app.

How do I check my NZeTA Status?
Use the system on the immigration website and enter your reference number. The page shows your NZeTA Status and any next steps.

Final checklist before you leave

• Passport valid for at least the required period.

• Eligible Australian visa recorded in your passport or visa record.

• Completed NZeTA Application Form and approved NZeTA.

• Checked NZeTA Status and saved your reference.

• Paid the IVL and NZeTA fee.

• Proof of onward travel and funds.

If you do all the above, your trip should be smooth. This new approach makes it easier for many people to visit New Zealand without the full New Zealand Visa process — as long as you meet the rules and travel from Australia. Enjoy New Zealand’s beauty and hospitality, and safe travels!