Visa waiver countries include the UK, the United States, Canada, Hong Kong, Malaysia and most European countries. The new requirement - which costs either $9 or $12 - excludes New Zealand and Australian citizens and those who already hold a valid visa for New Zealand.
Currently, visitors flying to New Zealand only receive light-touch screening at check-in, while cruise ship passengers and crew are not screened at all. The measure will reduce the number of those who are denied entry on arrival - 1173 last year alone - because authorities will be alerted to suspect travellers earlier.
An NZeTA would be valid for two years and visitors could come and go as often as they liked within that period. Aldous said the form could take up to 72 hours to process.
Princess Cruises have this to add: "Most visitors to New Zealand will also be subject to a $35 International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL). This fee enables multiple entries into New Zealand and is payable at the time you obtain your visa or ETA."
"Guests are required to obtain a New Zealand visa or ETA independently in advance of their cruise and bring a printed copy to cruise check-in or risk being denied boarding."
To determine your visa requirements for New Zealand, visit immigration.govt.nz/nzeta
