[Steadybears]

I have been given some old chairs that have been in our family for years - they have the wicker in the backs - can anyone tell me if this will be a problem to bring in and if so I would then pull out the wicker and hope that I could have it put in again once I get to NZ. Can anyone give me some advise on that.

Thanks again
Jayne

[Caroline and Dave]

Hi Ian and Jayne,

I think your best bet here is to contact Maf directly
http://www.maf.govt.nz/mafnet/enquiry/index.htm?/includes/maf/contacts/generic-contact.htm

We know someone who deals in antiques in the UK and the problem with replacing anything on an antique piece is that you will lose value greatly. Even things like replacement hinges on furniture will reduce the value. If you can it is best to keep the chairs as they are but Maf will be able to advise you on this.If these chairs are not of great value then you may be able to replace parts of the chairs.
You could also contact these people who are specialists in antique auctions who will be able to advise if it is a good idea to replace the wicker.
http://www.webbs.co.nz/about/contact.asp
Hope this helps

Dave and Caroline

[IanW99]

If you bring in items of furniture that pose a risk to NZ e.g. they may contain foreign organisms, then you have the option of having the item destroyed or fumigated at your cost.

So, would contact MAF for peace of mind, but other than that, just expect to pay a fumigation charge if necessary (I assume that you won't want them destroyed :no ).

Of course, I am assuming that they are in good overall condition and not obviously affected by something?

Ian

[Steadybears]

Thank you so much David, Caroline and Ian
Great advise as always thanks I will look them all up. Bit of sentimental furniture -my 80 year old Mum gave it to me before I left and said "Take it so I can come and visit and sit in my own chair" Blub!!!

Jayne