Pinoy travelers to New Zealand can now use immigration eGates in NZ airports

Filipino travelers to New Zealand can now use automated immigration arrival and departure gates in all its airports for faster and easier processing.

Implemented last October 13, the new rule includes holders of Philippine ePassports aged 10 years and above in the list of countries that can use New Zealand’s eGates.

"This development is part of New Zealand Customs’ expansion of eGate eligibility to 11 more countries and territories, helping further digitize border processing," the embassy of New Zealand said Wednesday.

"These changes help ensure more international travelers enjoy a self-service route through arrivals and departures at New Zealand airports."

Travelers must submit a digital New Zealand Traveller Declaration to use the eGates, which use sophisticated biometric software and information from ePassports to carry out necessary checks within seconds.

The embassy said its automated gates in airports enable customs frontline officers to focus on high-risk travelers and baggage.

Apart from the Philippines, travelers from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand, Seychelles, and San Marino can also access eGates, bringing to 59 the total number and countries and territories eligible for the procedure.

The embassy said their ePassports met the New Zealand government's strict border security and technological requirements.

"Last year, over 31,000 visitors from the Philippines travelled to New Zealand, and this number continues to grow. With eGates now available, arriving at New Zealand airports just got easier and faster," said Dana McDonald,, Customs Group Manager for Border Operations.

Immigration New Zealand’s Director Border Sarah Clifford said opening eGates to more eligible passport holders is a significant step in making travel to New Zealand smoother.

“This expansion makes genuine travel easier, while maintaining the integrity of our border," she said. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News