New Zealand Post NZ tracking
How to track my New Zealand Post NZ package?
To track a New Zealand Post NZ package, make sure you have the tracking number provided by the sender or the retailer. This unique code gives you access to all the information related to your shipment.
Enter this number in the search field and confirm. The most recent tracking data will be displayed automatically.
A detailed timeline then traces your package's journey: current location, completed transit stages, and estimated delivery date. This information is updated at each new stage, allowing you to follow your shipment's progress in real time.
Where can I find my New Zealand Post NZ tracking number?
The New Zealand Post NZ tracking number is automatically sent when your package is shipped. As the recipient, you receive it by email, SMS, or directly on the order confirmation page of the retailer's website.
If you cannot find it in your notifications, log in to your customer account on the website where you placed your order. The tracking number can be found in your order history or in the section dedicated to ongoing deliveries.
Once you have this number, enter it in the search field to check your delivery progress and estimated arrival date.
Why isn't my New Zealand Post NZ package moving in the package tracking history?
When your New Zealand Post NZ package tracking hasn't updated for several days, several factors may explain this delay: customs formalities for international shipments, logistical incidents, or simply a delay in updating the information.
Before taking any action, verify that the delivery address provided during the order is correct. An error or incomplete information can slow down the shipping process. If the delay persists beyond the announced timeframe, contact New Zealand Post NZ customer service or the sender with your tracking number on hand. They will be able to precisely locate your package and, if necessary, open an investigation to determine the cause of the delay.
When I track my New Zealand Post NZ package, why does it show as "returned"?
A "returned" status means that the package has been sent back to the sender. Several situations can explain this return:
The delivery driver was unable to identify the recipient due to an incorrect, illegible, or incomplete address missing essential information (apartment number, access code, etc.).
After several unsuccessful attempts and in the absence of collection within the allotted time, the package is automatically returned to its origin point.
The recipient did not collect the package from the post office or pickup point within the holding period, usually 15 days.
For international shipments, missing or incomplete documents or an incorrect value declaration can result in customs clearance refusal and the return of the package.
If your package shows this status, contact the sender or New Zealand Post NZ customer service to find out the exact reason for the return and agree on a solution: a new shipment or refund according to the seller's terms.
Why does the New Zealand Post NZ parcel tracking timeline indicate that my order cannot be found?
If no information appears when tracking your New Zealand Post NZ package, several causes are possible:
Make sure that the number entered matches exactly the one provided by the sender. A single character error prevents the package from being identified.
Tracking information is only available once the package has been picked up by New Zealand Post NZ. A delay of 24 to 48 hours may occur between the notification being sent and the first status update.
Temporary malfunctions can sometimes affect the online tracking system. In this case, try again later or contact New Zealand Post NZ customer service for assistance.
About New Zealand Post NZ
New Zealand Post NZ is the official postal service provider of New Zealand. It offers a wide range of postal, courier, and logistics services to both domestic and international customers. With a rich history dating back to 1840, New Zealand Post has played a vital role in connecting communities and facilitating trade across the country. The company is committed to providing reliable and efficient delivery services, along with innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of its customers.
How to contact New Zealand Post NZ?
If you are experiencing issues with the delivery process managed by New Zealand Post NZ, please do not hesitate to contact their customer support.
What is New Zealand Post?
New Zealand Post, commonly known as NZ Post, is the national postal operator of New Zealand. With a history dating back to 1840, this carrier has more than 180 years of experience in the postal and logistics field. Originally, the New Zealand Post Office was a government department responsible for mail, telecommunications and financial services for the young British colony, including notably postal savings. This institution played a fundamental role in the country's development, connecting isolated communities and facilitating trade throughout New Zealand.
The first mail deliveries relied on rudimentary means adapted to New Zealand's particular geography. Stagecoaches crossed mountainous and difficult terrain, while sailing ships ensured connections between remote colonies and maritime transport to Europe. During the second half of the 19th century, the expansion of rail and road networks, as well as the introduction of steamships, considerably improved the speed and reliability of postal service. This modernization made it possible to open hundreds of new post offices throughout the country, extending postal coverage to the most remote regions.
In the 20th century, the New Zealand Post Office became a major institution with thousands of offices and a considerably expanded role. Beyond postal mail, it also managed telephone services and a postal bank, playing an important social role by offering varied services such as savings, registration of official documents or payment of public benefits. However, as the 1980s approached, the need to modernize and separate these activities became apparent in the face of growing deficits in traditional postal service.
- Date of creation: 1840, with the establishment of the first postal service of the New Zealand colony
- Major reform: In 1987, transformation into an independent state-owned enterprise called New Zealand Post Ltd
- Parent company: State-owned enterprise 100% owned by the New Zealand government
- Headquarters: Wellington, New Zealand
- Staff: Approximately 4,500 to 4,600 employees including sorting agents, mail carriers, couriers and administrative staff
- Annual revenue: Approximately 700 million New Zealand dollars per year
In 1987, a major structural reform transformed the old postal administration. New Zealand Post was converted into an independent state-owned enterprise, separate from the telecommunications and banking branches. This corporatization enabled the introduction of more commercial management methods and significantly improved productivity. In the following years, New Zealand Post returned to profitability and prepared the opening of the postal market to competition in the 1990s.
Facing the digital revolution that began in the late 20th century, the volume of traditional mail, particularly letters, began to decline sharply. To adapt to this new reality, New Zealand Post strategically diversified its activities. The company notably launched Kiwibank in 2002 to offer financial services again through the postal network. At the same time, the carrier invested heavily in developing fast messaging services and logistics to support the rise of online commerce. In the 21st century, New Zealand Post has transformed itself into a versatile player, combining its postal heritage with parcel delivery services, banking services and innovative digital solutions.
Today, New Zealand Post continues to play an essential role in connecting New Zealand communities and businesses. The company remains the guarantor of universal postal service and ensures regular mail distribution throughout the country. It strives to offer reliable, efficient and innovative services to meet contemporary needs in postal and logistics services. The carrier processes approximately 200 million letters each year, a volume in constant decline illustrating the ongoing transition towards digital and parcel services.
Which countries does New Zealand Post deliver to?
New Zealand Post ensures particularly extensive geographic coverage, both on national territory and at the international level. In New Zealand, the carrier serves all municipalities, from major cities like Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch to the most isolated rural areas. NZ Post's territorial network includes a vast network of post offices, partner agencies and collection points distributed throughout the country.
For international destinations, New Zealand Post offers shipping services to more than 220 countries and territories worldwide. The company relies on Universal Postal Union agreements and partnerships with national postal operators in each destination country to ensure service continuity. A parcel sent to Australia will thus be handled by Australia Post for final distribution, while a shipment to France will transit through La Poste française.
NZ Post organizes its international destinations into six distinct geographic zones, each with its own delivery times and rates:
- Zone A - Australia: All Australian states, with the shortest delivery times thanks to geographic proximity
- Zone B - South Pacific: American Samoa, Cocos Islands, Cook Islands, Fiji, French Polynesia, Kiribati, Nauru, New Caledonia, Niue, Norfolk Island, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Wallis and Futuna
- Zone C - Asia: Brunei, Cambodia, China, Micronesia, Guam, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, North and South Korea, Laos, Macao, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, East Timor, Vietnam
- Zone D - Canada, Europe and United Kingdom: All European countries, Canada and the United Kingdom
- Zone E - United States: All American states and associated territories
- Zone F - Rest of world: South America, Africa, Middle East, Indian subcontinent and other destinations
For the International Courier service, NZ Post serves 57 countries with delivery times of 2 to 6 business days. The International Express service, meanwhile, covers 220 destinations with delivery times of 1 to 5 business days depending on the geographic zone. Deliveries to areas outside major cities, or when items are subject to customs duties, may take longer than the stated indicative times.
It is important to note that certain destinations have specific characteristics. For example, Express shipments to Andorra, the Bahamas, Bahrain, Iran, Oman, the Solomon Islands or Vanuatu can only use a post office box address. NZ Post regularly updates the list of served countries and any restrictions based on international geopolitical and logistics conditions.
What are the New Zealand Post services and delivery times?
New Zealand Post offers a complete range of delivery services suited to all needs, whether for domestic or international shipments. Each service is distinguished by its delivery time, tracking level and included options, allowing shippers to choose the most appropriate solution based on urgency and budget.
For domestic deliveries in New Zealand, NZ Post offers several options:
- ParcelPost Tracked: The most economical option for sending tracked parcels throughout the country. Distribution times generally range from 2 to 5 business days depending on destination, with possible additional transit time for rural or remote areas.
- Courier (CourierPost): An express service ensuring parcel delivery the next business day after dispatch in the country's major cities. This trackable service offers rapid delivery with signature on receipt in most New Zealand urban centers.
- Courier Economy: An alternative to the standard Courier service, offering a compromise between speed and cost for less urgent shipments.
- Express (Pace): An ultra-fast same-day delivery service available in certain metropolitan areas. This service guarantees parcel distribution within a few hours of dispatch, provided the shipment is made before the set deadline. It is a solution valued for urgent shipments requiring delivery in just a few hours.
- Evening Delivery: For urgent deliveries between 6 PM and 9 PM, Monday to Friday, ideal for recipients absent during the day.
Regarding domestic delivery times, urban areas generally benefit from faster distribution than rural areas. NZ Post ensures mail delivery six days a week (Monday to Saturday) for urban addresses, while rural addresses only receive deliveries Monday to Friday. Saturday parcel and newspaper deliveries to rural addresses have been discontinued for commercial viability reasons.
For international shipments, NZ Post offers four main service levels:
- Economy: The most economical offer for sending parcels and documents abroad. Delivery times range from 3 to 13 business days depending on destination among the 220 countries served. This service includes coverage in case of loss or damage up to 2,000 New Zealand dollars.
- International Courier: A fast international messaging service with delivery times of 2 to 6 business days to 57 destinations. It includes complete tracking, signature on delivery and coverage up to 5,000 New Zealand dollars in case of loss or damage.
- International Express Courier: The premium formula for urgent international shipments with delivery times of 1 to 5 business days. This service offers complete tracking, requires recipient signature and provides full insurance.
- International Economy Courier: An intermediate solution offering the benefits of a messaging service (tracking, proof of delivery) with moderate delivery times and more accessible rates.
It should be noted that NZ Post does not directly control all stages of the international delivery chain. Once parcels arrive in the destination country, they are handled by the local postal operator, which can affect final delivery times. Customs procedures can also extend delivery times, particularly for shipments subject to customs duties or requiring biosecurity checks.
What are the rates and maximum dimensions accepted by New Zealand Post?
New Zealand Post rates vary depending on weight, dimensions, destination and chosen service level. The carrier offers an online tool called Rate Finder that allows shippers to accurately calculate the cost of their shipment based on its specific characteristics. This rate transparency facilitates comparison between the different available options.
Regarding standard mail shipments in New Zealand, medium-format letters cost approximately 2.90 New Zealand dollars including tax, large letters approximately 4.20 dollars and oversized letters approximately 5.50 dollars. KiwiStamps, pre-paid stamps very popular in New Zealand, are available from approximately 2.90 dollars each.
For domestic parcels, the maximum accepted dimensions and weight are as follows:
- Maximum weight: 25 kg per parcel for standard services
- Maximum volume: 0.125 m³
- Maximum length: 1.5 metres
- Express service: Can accept parcels over 25 kg and unusually shaped items
Parcel rates are calculated according to actual weight or volumetric weight, whichever is highest. Volumetric weight is calculated by multiplying the three dimensions of the parcel (length x width x height in centimeters) and dividing the result by a conversion factor. This method allows equitable pricing of voluminous but lightweight parcels.
For international shipments, limits vary by service:
- International Courier: Parcels up to 30 kg, letters up to 1 kg
- Courier Select AU or US: Items up to 22 kg with certain dimensional restrictions
- Economy: Items up to 20 kg
Several factors influence the final price of an international shipment:
- Destination zone: NZ Post's six geographic zones apply different rates, with Australia (Zone A) generally being the least expensive
- Weight and dimensions: Actual or volumetric weight, rounded up to the nearest 50 grams
- Service level: Economy, Courier or Express, each with its own rate grids
- Additional options: Additional insurance, signature required, etc.
A service fee of 3 New Zealand dollars applies to international shipments made at the post office to cover electronic entry and administration costs. This fee is not charged for shipments prepared online via the Print Postage Online or eShip tools. A rural surcharge of 5.70 dollars also applies to items addressed to rural addresses in New Zealand.
It is important to note that under-postaged parcels (with an insufficient number of postage stamps) will be charged the difference between the correct weight and the declared weight, plus administrative fees of 5.50 dollars excluding tax. Shippers are therefore encouraged to accurately weigh and measure their parcels before dispatch.
What are the New Zealand Post delivery options?
New Zealand Post offers a variety of flexible delivery options to adapt to different situations for recipients. These options allow you to receive your parcels conveniently, even in case of absence from home. The carrier has developed a complete ecosystem of solutions as alternatives to traditional home delivery.
Home delivery remains the default option for most shipments. NZ Post mail carriers and couriers make their rounds Monday to Saturday for urban areas and Monday to Friday for rural areas. Parcels requiring signature can be left in a safe place if the recipient has previously authorized it via the Leave my parcel service.
- Leave my parcel (Leave my parcel): This service allows you to provide delivery instructions so that parcels normally requiring a signature can be left in a secure location in case of absence. The recipient can configure this option for a single delivery or for all future deliveries by creating a permanent "safe spot".
- Redirect (Redirection): If the parcel has not yet been loaded into the delivery vehicle, the recipient can redirect it to another address located within a 75 km radius of the initial delivery address.
- Missed my parcel (Missed parcel): In case of absence during the delivery attempt and receipt of a delivery notice, the recipient can request a new delivery at the same address or a different address.
For those who prefer to pick up their parcels outside their home, NZ Post offers several alternatives:
- Collect my parcel: This service allows you to have your tracked parcels delivered to more than 360 collection points throughout New Zealand, including Woolworths stores and NZ Post offices. Once the parcel arrives, the recipient receives an email notification and has 10 days to pick it up with an ID. Accepted parcels must weigh a maximum of 15 kg and measure at most 50 x 40 x 30 cm.
- ParcelPod (Automated lockers): NZ Post provides automated lockers accessible 24/7. The recipient receives a dedicated ParcelPod address and a key to access the locker hall. When a parcel arrives, an email is sent and the recipient has 48 hours to pick it up.
- Post offices: Parcels can also be picked up directly from NZ Post offices after an unsuccessful delivery attempt.
Regarding notifications and tracking, NZ Post offers a complete alert system:
- Email notifications: Information on delivery progress and parcel arrival
- SMS notifications: Real-time alerts on shipment status
- My NZ Post account: Personalized dashboard to manage delivery preferences, register favorite addresses and track all your shipments
- Mobile application: Real-time tracking and management of delivery options from your smartphone
These different options demonstrate New Zealand Post's commitment to offering a flexible delivery experience tailored to modern lifestyles. The recipient retains control over how they receive their parcels, reducing the risk of missed deliveries and associated frustrations.
What should I do if my New Zealand Post parcel is lost or damaged?
In case of loss or damage to a parcel sent with New Zealand Post, there is a clearly defined claims procedure that allows you to obtain compensation. The carrier takes these situations seriously and has implemented a structured system to process compensation requests fairly and efficiently.
The timeframes for filing a claim vary depending on the nature of the problem:
- Damaged parcel or missing contents: The claim must be made within 10 days of delivery
- Non-delivery of a domestic shipment or International Courier: The claim must be filed within 21 days of dispatch
- Non-delivery of an international postal shipment: The claim can be made up to 90 days after dispatch
The claims procedure works as follows:
- Step 1: Contact NZ Post customer service via the website, by telephone or by visiting a post office
- Step 2: Complete the appropriate claim form (form for damaged item or missing item)
- Step 3: Provide required supporting documents: proof of item value (invoices, receipts or independent valuation), copy of shipment receipt if applicable, and bank details for reimbursement
- Step 4: For damaged items, attach photos clearly showing the damage suffered
- Step 5: Submit the complete documentation within 3 months of NZ Post's request
Coverage levels vary by service used:
- Domestic Courier and Express services: Coverage up to 2,000 New Zealand dollars including tax per item
- International Economy: Coverage up to 2,000 New Zealand dollars
- International Courier: Coverage up to 5,000 New Zealand dollars
- Additional compensation (business customers): Service available for items valued between 2,000 and 50,000 New Zealand dollars, via the domestic Courier network only
It is important to understand how compensation is calculated. NZ Post may choose to repair or replace the item, or pay monetary compensation corresponding to the replacement value at purchase cost (and not resale value), with the lowest amount being retained. A refund of postage fees may also be granted.
Certain situations do not entitle compensation:
- Fragile, perishable or valuable items: Not covered without prior written agreement
- Inadequate packaging: Insufficiently protected items (for example, glass or bottles sent in Trackpak envelopes) are not reimbursed
- Incorrect address: Addressing errors exclude compensation
- Delivery delays: No compensation is provided for simple delays
Compensation is generally paid to the shipper, but the shipper can waive this right in favor of the recipient. In this case, the recipient will receive the same amount of compensation that would have been paid to the shipper. To facilitate the process, NZ Post recommends keeping all shipping documents and proof of purchase until confirmed receipt of the parcel.
Does New Zealand Post handle international shipments and customs procedures?
New Zealand Post offers a complete range of services for international shipments and assists its customers with related customs procedures. The company has developed significant expertise in this field, facilitating trade and personal exchanges between New Zealand and the rest of the world. The management of customs documents is integrated into the shipping process, although duties and taxes generally remain the responsibility of the shipper or recipient depending on the chosen service.
All international shipments require appropriate customs documentation. The types of documents required include:
- Customs declaration: Mandatory for all international shipments (except Economy Letters International), it details the contents, value and origin of goods
- Consignment note (Shipment receipt): Document containing information about the shipper, recipient, customs declaration and unique shipment reference number
- Commercial or export invoice: Allows customs authorities in the destination country to determine whether the item can enter the country and whether it is subject to fees or customs duties
- Export declaration (Export Entry): Formal declaration to New Zealand customs for certain types of shipments
NZ Post uses the Electronic Advance Data (EAD) system to transmit shipping information to customs authorities. This data includes information about the shipper, recipient and parcel contents, and may be shared with postal administrations and government agencies in destination or transit countries for security and customs clearance reasons.
Harmonized System (HS) tariff codes are now mandatory for many destinations. These standardized international codes allow classification of shipped products and play a crucial role in taxation and control systems. For countries participating in the European Union's ICS2 (Import Control System 2) and destinations using these countries in transit, 6-digit HS codes are required for all items.
Regarding customs duties and import taxes in New Zealand:
- Exemption threshold: Items valued at 1,000 New Zealand dollars or less are generally exempt from customs duties, except for alcohol and tobacco
- GST (goods and services tax): A 15% VAT applies to all imported items, including gifts and online purchases
- Additional fees: If duties and/or GST are applied, an Import Entry Transaction Fee (IETF) and a Biosecurity Levy (BSEL) will also be charged
For shipments to the United States, all shipments operate under the Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) model, which means duties and taxes must be paid in advance by the shipper. NZ Post handles customs clearance and payment to US customs. Additional fees apply: a 5% disbursement fee on the amount of duties and a service fee of 5 dollars per shipment. Authentic gifts valued under 150 New Zealand dollars, sent from one individual to another, may be exempt from duties and taxes via any NZ Post service.
To simplify the process, NZ Post offers several digital tools allowing you to complete customs documentation online or via smartphone in certain post offices, at no additional service charge. This digitalization speeds up shipment processing and reduces the risk of errors in declarations.
Understanding tracking statuses
When you track a New Zealand Post parcel online, different statuses may appear. Here are the main statuses and their meaning:
| Status | Description |
|---|---|
| A tracking label has been created, but the item is not yet with us | The shipping label has been generated by the shipper, but the parcel has not yet been delivered to New Zealand Post for delivery |
| We have received the shipping information | Information regarding your parcel has been recorded in NZ Post's tracking system |
| The shipper has assigned a tracking number to the parcel | A unique tracking number has been assigned to your shipment to allow its tracking throughout the journey |
| The parcel has been collected | The parcel has been picked up by New Zealand Post from the shipper |
| The parcel has been picked up from the shipper's location by the local courier driver | An NZ Post courier has picked up the parcel directly from the shipper and is delivering it to the depot for processing |
| The item has been picked up and is on its way to a depot | The parcel is in transit from the collection point to an NZ Post sorting center or depot |
| The parcel is ready to be sent | The parcel has been processed and is prepared for the next step of its delivery |
| The parcel has been delivered to the depot | The parcel has arrived at an NZ Post depot and awaits processing or transfer |
| We are currently processing the parcel | The parcel is being sorted and prepared for the next delivery step |
| The parcel is being processed at the depot | NZ Post teams are processing your parcel in a sorting center |
| The item has been sorted at a parcel depot | Parcel sorting is complete and it awaits delivery to its next destination |
| The item has been sorted at a parcel depot and awaits transport | The parcel has been sorted and is waiting to be loaded into a transport vehicle |
| The item is currently in transit | The parcel is being delivered to its destination |
| The item is in transit to a local delivery depot | The parcel is on its way to the local depot that will ensure final delivery |
| The item is currently in transit to a delivery depot | The parcel is progressing towards the distribution center responsible for your area |
| The item has arrived at the sorting depot | The parcel has arrived at a sorting center to be directed to its destination |
| The item has arrived at the sorting center | The parcel has reached an NZ Post main sorting center |
| The item is at the local regional depot | The parcel is in the regional depot of your geographic area |
| The parcel is at the local depot and awaits the local courier driver | The parcel has arrived at the delivery depot and will soon be taken by a delivery person |
| The parcel is ready to be picked up by the courier at the depot | The parcel is prepared and awaiting loading into the delivery vehicle |
| The parcel has been handed to the local courier driver at the depot | The parcel has been entrusted to the delivery person who will ensure distribution |
| Our courier is currently in possession of the item, and is preparing it for delivery | The delivery person has the parcel and is organizing their delivery route |
| The item is with a courier for delivery | The parcel is being delivered and should arrive soon |
| The item has been handed over for delivery | The parcel has been entrusted to the delivery person for final distribution |
| We have received the instruction to leave the parcel | Instructions have been received to leave the parcel in a safe location without personal delivery |
| The parcel is ready to be left | The delivery person is about to leave the parcel at the agreed location with the recipient |
| The item has been delivered | The parcel has been successfully delivered to its recipient or left at the indicated address |
| The item has been delivered successfully | Parcel delivery was completed without problems |
| Delivery has been completed | The delivery process is complete and the parcel has been delivered |
| The order has been delivered | Your order has been delivered successfully |
| Delivery was completed, however the location is not available | The parcel was delivered but the exact drop-off location was not recorded |
| The item has arrived at the outgoing mail center, and is being prepared for transit abroad | For an international shipment, the parcel is at the processing center and will soon be sent to the destination country |
| The item has been processed at the outgoing depot | The parcel has been prepared for its international shipment |
| The item has been processed and authorized for transit to its destination country | The parcel has passed controls and is authorized to leave New Zealand |
| The parcel is with the airline, awaiting departure on a flight from the country of origin | The parcel has been delivered to the airline and awaits its flight to the destination |
| The parcel is being transported by air to its destination country | The parcel is currently in flight to the recipient's country |
| The flight has arrived | The aircraft carrying your parcel has landed in the destination country |
| The parcel has completed its international flight and will soon be processed to enter its destination country | The parcel has arrived by air and awaits customs procedures |
| The parcel has left internationally | The parcel has left New Zealand for its international destination |
| The item is in transit to the local depot from the international mail center | After passing customs, the parcel is being delivered to the local delivery depot |
| The item has left our international mail center and is now on its way to a local regional delivery depot | The parcel has left the international center and is progressing towards its final destination |
| The item has been authorized for import into its destination country | The parcel has passed customs clearance and can be delivered in the destination country |
| The shipping information has been approved | The shipment details have been verified and validated by the system |
| The item is held for customs clearance | The parcel is awaiting processing by customs services |
| The item is currently held for customs clearance at the depot | The parcel is at the depot and awaits completion of customs procedures |
| The item has been released for delivery | After customs clearance, the parcel is authorized to proceed to final delivery |
| The item has arrived at a depot abroad and is being prepared for delivery | The parcel has arrived in the destination country and will soon be delivered by the local carrier |
| The item has been collected by the postal service abroad and is on its way to the depot | The postal service of the destination country has taken over the parcel for final delivery |