Bicycles
Remove pedals, handlebars and front wheel and pack with the remaining parts in a carton like those used by bicycle manufacturers. These cartons are generally available at bicycle shops.
Note: Cartons must still meet the normal maximum dimension criteria of the service being used.
Car parts, heavy hardware
Ensure all grease, oil, batteries, hydraulic fluid, brake fluid, antifreeze and fuel are removed and that the item is not prohibited or hazardous (refer to our prohibited items Guide). Protect all surfaces from possible scratches by wrapping in paper or polyethylene. Protruding parts should be wrapped well to prevent them from puncturing the carton. Pack in a double wall cardboard carton sealed with heavy-duty packing tape and binding or in a wooden crate. Use sufficient inner packaging to prevent movement.
China, crockery and glassware
Wrap individual objects with sufficient cushioning material so you cannot feel the shape of the object through the wrapping. Items packed together in one container should be individually wrapped and separated with cushioning material. Pack in a strong, rigid outer carton of cardboard, wood or metal. To help prevent movement of the items during delivery, ensure all gaps are filled.
Electrical equipment and radios (including toys, computers and games)
Pack in a strong, rigid cardboard carton. Keep parts well away from the side of the container by protecting them with adequate internal packaging. All computer parts must be packages in non-static internal packaging. All batteries must be removed from the item before sending to prevent it from activating during delivery.
Note: Some batteries are dangerous and cannot be posted even when removed from the item. See our prohibited items Guide, or pick up a 'Letting you know about Prohibited Items' brochure from your local New Zealand Post retail outlet.
Fishing rods, umbrellas, etc
Pack between two strong strips of wood or double wall cardboard slightly larger in length and width than the object. Wrap securely. HandiTubes or other strong cardboard tubes could also be used.
Note: Ensure the parcel does not exceed the maximum length dimension for the service being used.
Liquids
Ensure the item is not prohibited or hazardous (refer to our prohibited items Guide). Wrap bottles individually, surround with resilient cushioning material and place in a well sealed polyethylene bag. Pack in a strong cardboard carton with sufficient absorbent material such as newspaper or wood-shavings to soak up any possible spillage.
Live bees, leeches, silkworms and harmless insects, etc.
Insects must be enclosed in strong, protective containers which allow the contents to be easily viewed and allow sufficient air to circulate. Make sure you include the addressee's and sender's name, address and phone number.
Live bee bags are available from selected New Zealand Post Mail Centres (phone 0800 501 501 for more information).
Restrictions apply to the sending of these items both domestically and internationally. Please contact our Customer Service Centre on 0800 501 501 for further information, including specific information on the extent of our liability.
Millinery
Pack in a strong cardboard carton. Surround the articles with internal cushioning to prevent movement.
Musical instruments
Cases supplied with many musical instruments are not designed for protection during delivery. The existing case should be packed in double wall cardboard carton or a wooden case. Inner packaging must be used to stop movement of the instrument in its case and of the case within the outer carton.
The bridges of stringed instruments should be removed and packed separately.
Pictures in frames
Completely cover glass with adhesive tape that can be easily removed. This will help to prevent the picture from being scratched, should the glass break.
Wrap the frame at least twice in bubble wrap or polyethylene foam sheeting, taking care to use sufficient padding to protect the edges. Protective cardboard corners should be placed over the bubble wrap or foam. Place the picture between two sheets of solid cardboard or heavy weight corrugated cardboard and wrap in strong paper, or alternatively, pack in a strong cardboard carton with sufficient inner packaging to prevent movement.
Powders
Ensure the item is not prohibited or hazardous (refer to our prohibited items Guide). Enclose dry powders in an airtight plastic container or tin and seal in a polyethylene bag. Pack in a strong cardboard carton with sufficient inner packaging to prevent movement.
Sharp instruments
Place a protective covering or guard over the edges or points to prevent them causing damage to other articles, or injuring anyone handling the parcel. Pack in a strong cardboard carton with sufficient inner packaging to prevent movement.