New Zealand releases new procedures for vessel inspections

Biosecurity New Zealand has finalized the standard, Requirements for Vessels Arriving in New Zealand, which proposed a risk-targeted approach to Vessel Inspections at the Border and introduced the concept of 'low risk vessel'. Regularly visiting vessels that attain this status may receive dispensation from inspection. A trial starts on 15 October with three shipping agents and the ships they handle. The standard will become operational in full for most vessels on April 7, 2008 and for cruise passenger vessels and pleasure craft at the start of the 2008/09 season. Information on clearance of vessels under the new system will be posted on this website under Border and Transportation Requirements. For more info, contact Liz Jones, MAF Biosecurity New Zealand, liz.jones@maf.govt.nz, or read the final standard here.