I want to bring food from my home country (like 'pancit canton' or 'sinigang mix'). What are the customs rules?

This is a very common query from new arrivals. New Zealand has extremely strict biosecurity laws to protect its environment and economy. The Golden Rule: YOU MUST DECLARE ALL FOOD. This declaration is made on the Passenger Arrival Card given to all travelers before landing. Are they allowed? Items like "pancit canton" (noodles) and "sinigang mix" (dried spices/plant products) are not fresh fruit, vegetables, or meat. Therefore, they are likely to be allowed into the country if they are in their original, commercially sealed packaging. The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) lists "noodles" and "dried spaghetti" as items that must be declared and inspected upon arrival. The Penalty: If an item is not declared, the person can be fined NZ$400 on the spot. More serious breaches can lead to fines of up to NZ$100,000, jail time, or deportation. It is never worth the risk. When in doubt, declare it.