New Zealand's being urged to drop HIV-related travel restrictions by two United Nations organisations.

UNAIDS and the UN Development programme want countries to keep promises made in a 2016 declaration to end AIDS.

They've listed New Zealand as one of 48 countries and territories to still have some HIV travel restrictions.

UNAIDS executive director Gunilla Carlsson says the restrictions violate human rights, and stimulate stigma and discrimination.

She says travel bans don't reduce HIV transmission.

The ban is due to a requirement that all arriving non-New Zealanders must not impose undue costs or demands on our public health system.

Body Positive is an organisation supporting people with HIV/AIDS, and Executive Director Mark Fisher says arguments about the cost to the health system were valid once, but not now.

"It's actually a time for review and for them to be removed. People should be judged based on what they are bringing to the country besides a virus."

Immigration New Zealand manager Michael Carley says HIV travel restrictions relate to those applying under the Recognised Seasonal Employer Scheme.

Those travellers required to undergo screening if they are from a country with risk factors for HIV/AIDS.

HIV positive applicants for the visa aren't eligible for a limited visa.