As a contracting partner to the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC), New Zealand uses an international standard for wood packaging called ISPM15. The development of standards in New Zealand is arranged by the Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) by way of an Import Health Standard (IHS).
In summary, the standard applies to packaging greater than 6mm in thickness and includes items such as dunnage, crates, fillets, spacers, pallets, drums, and reels. If the wood packaging is treated, it must be either stamped according to the ISPM15 standard, accompanied by a treatment certificate endorsed by the NPPO for the country of export or a phyto-sanitary certificate provided.
If the wood does not comply with the IHS, MPI will require the packaging to be treated, redirected or destroyed with the importer liable for the associated costs.
For a copy of the IHS for wood packaging, refer to the MPI website in New Zealand www.mpi.govt.nz or contact us for the latest version.