What happens to mail that's posted without a stamp?

Question

I think I accidentally posted mail without a stamp, a week ago, can I get it back somehow?

Answer 1

It will eventually come back to you. The post office will not mail it without a stamp.

Answer 2

If it has a return address it will get re-routed back to you for postage due. Otherwise it will go to the dead letter office and someone will determine after opening it what should be done.

Answer 3

1. if there is a return address and it is a personal letter (residential) it will be returned to you advising insufficient postage. Obviously this is out of the normal workings of how post is supposed to be done so this could quite possibly take a long time. In rare occassions the post has actually been delivered.

2. if it is to a business PO Box address NZ Post may choose to send it to the business postal centre who will advise the business they have post that needs postage paid for.

3. if you did not put your return address on it and NZ Post do not send it, they may open it and if they can determine your address they will send it to you. Obviously this could take considerable time also.

It pays to ensure correct stamps are attached firmly, address is printed on the envelope as per NZ Post guidlines and that you ensure you add the post code. That way NZ Post can make sure your post gets to its destination on time.