New biosecurity requirements mean there are changes for those wishing to bring Pacific style, hand woven or tapa cloth mats into New Zealand. Due to the nature of the materials used in Pacific-style mats, they can easily carry unwanted pests and seeds.

Should individuals wish to export these items to New Zealand they will need to properly clean and check the mats for insects or seeds before packing them to send to New Zealand. Every consignment of tapa and mats will need to be taken to Tonga MAFFF for inspection and/or treatment before departure and a Phytosanitary certificate will have to be issued by them to attest to the inspection and treatment they had carried out.

Declare Pacific-style mats on your Passenger Arrival Card when arriving in New Zealand so they can be inspected on arrival. If any insects, seeds or other biosecurity risk items are found during your mat inspection in New Zealand, the mat will be sent away for treatment.

It is very important to note that the total cost of treatment at the different airports in New Zealand can vary significantly and there could be some delays due to the time taken to inspect depending on the size of the bales of tapas and mats. For example, in Auckland, the total cost of treatment would be at least $35 (subject to change) not including delivery. This cost covers a minimum $15 packaging and handling fee, and a minimum $20 treatment fee. – New Zealand High Commission, 04/07/12.