Pet Transportation to New Zealand
Trusted international relocation to NZ from Australia. Travel is complicated enough for humans, let alone your pets. Our experienced team ensures your pet is ready and able to fly when you are.
50+ years of experience
Offices across Australia & New Zealand
Airline partners including Qantas & Air New Zealand
Dogtainers Pet Transport is rated 4.7 stars - from 1079 on Product Review
Expert International Pet Travel to New Zealand Made Easy
We’re here to help .
Although New Zealand is our neighbour, there’s quite a bit involved in getting your pet there. As a rabies-free country, NZ has strict import regulations for all animals, including pets. Luckily, pet transport to and from New Zealand is our most popular route, so we are well equipped at handling these requirements. We have offices in every Australian state, as well as Auckland, Christchurch, and Wellington, so our team will take care of your pet at both ends of your journey. And as we are partners with the best pet-friendly airlines, including Air New Zealand and Qantas, our airline partners will take care of your pet in the sky.
Global Pet Transport Guarantee
Dogtainers is proud to offer the only International Service Guarantee in the pet transport
industry.
Our guarantee has been created to ensure you feel confident, reassured, and fully supported,
knowing your pet’s export from Australia is managed by experienced professionals every step of
the way.
(This guarantee excludes domestic flights and all import moves into Australia.)
As part of our International Service Guarantee :
-
- All travel arrangements are completed in a timely, secure, and fully compliant manner.
- Your pet is given the opportunity to acclimatise to their travel crate prior to travel. Once
your booking is confirmed, the crate is delivered to your residence at a pre-arranged time so your pet can become familiar and comfortable with it. - Your pet travels in a pressurised, temperature-controlled cabin maintained at approximately 18°C.
We follow the IATA Live Animals Regulations and work closely with governmentaccredited veterinarians to ensure all treatments and documentation meet international
export standards.
What’s Included in Your NZ Pet Move:
Airline-approved travel crate
Airline-approved travel crate
Final vet inspection & treatments day prior to travel
AQIS export paperwork and Health Certificate
2 days boarding at Dogtainers private boarding facility
Customs/veterinary clearance fees
Airport Terminal fees
Deluxe fleece bedding
Additional Services:
Pet pickup & delivery
Required NZ testing and treatments
Pet calming Adaptil collar for dogs
Why You Should Choose Dogtainers
There are four different categories recognised by the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources. The categories are based on the rabies risks of animals coming from these countries. Cats and dogs from approved countries are allowed to enter, provided all the veterinary requirements are met.
We are Australia’s largest owner-operated pet transport network and the only pet travel company to have our own offices and staff located in every state in Australia, including the Northern Territory.
Dogtainers has been operating for 50 years, and we import thousands of pets into Australia every year.
We’re an official RSPCA partner and a member of IPATA.
Most importantly, we’re pet lovers just like you! We understand that pets are family, and they deserve to be treated like it.
PROCESS TIMELINE
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Step 1
Enquiry
Step 2
Blood tests & vetwork (30–60 days)
Step 3
Final treatments (2–4 days prior)
Step 4
Paperwork and AQIS approvals
Step 5
Check-in & pre-flight care
Step 6
Flight to NZ (~3 hours)
Step 7
Arrival and customs clearance
NZ REQUIREMENTS
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Dogs
- Heartworm treatment within 4 days of departure
- Babesia Gibsoni PCR x2 (30 days apart)
- Heartworm blood test (dogs 6+ months)
- Internal & external parasite treatments (two rounds)
- Final vet inspection
- ISO microchip
- AQIS paperwork
Cats
- Internal & external parasite treatments (two rounds)
- Final vet inspection
- ISO microchip
- AQIS paperwork
Vaccines:
- Dogs: C5
- Cats: F3
NZ BANNED BREEDS
American Pit Bull Terrier
Japanese Tosa
Dogo Argentino
Perro de Presa Canario
Brazilian Fila
FAQs About Pet Transport to New Zealand
How Much Does It Cost To Transport A Pet To New Zealand?
Pet Transport costs to New Zealand can vary depending on the breed, size of the pet and the route. Transport from countries other than Australia can range from 10,000 to 30,000 NZD.
What Are The Requirements For Importing A Pet To New Zealand?
The pet import requirements depend on the country of origin and the category of the country you are importing pets from. You can find detailed information on the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) website, which outlines the step-by-step process for bringing cats and dogs to New Zealand.
These are some key requirements:
- Microchip: The pet needs to be microchipped for identification purposes.
- Vaccinations: The pet must have up-to-date vaccinations, including rabies vaccination, and a veterinary certificate to prove it.
- Blood test: Depending on the country of origin, your pet may require a blood test to ensure it is free of diseases such as rabies.
- Import permit: You must apply for and obtain an import permit from MPI prior to your pet’s arrival in New Zealand.
- Quarantine: All cats and dogs must undergo a minimum of 10 days of quarantine on arrival in New Zealand.
How Long Does It Take For A Pet To Enter New Zealand?
Generally, it takes a minimum of 2-3 months and a maximum of 6 months for the entire process. The time duration depends on the country of origin and the type of pet including breed. During this period, pets must undergo a series of tests, treatments, and quarantine periods to ensure they meet the strict health and safety requirements of New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). It is important to begin the process well in advance of your intended travel dates to avoid delays and ensure that all requirements are met.
Are There Any Quarantine Requirements For Pets Entering New Zealand?
If you are planning to bring your pet to New Zealand, Yes, there are quarantine requirements that you need to keep in mind. Pets arriving from Group 2 or 3 countries need to spend a minimum of 10 days in quarantine. These quarantine requirements are in place to protect the environment and the creatures of New Zealand. It’s recommended to make arrangements with an approved quarantine facility in advance.
What Type Of Health Certificate Is Required For A Pet Entering New Zealand?
An import health certificate is required for pets entering New Zealand. The health certificate must be completed by an official veterinarian in the country of origin and is specific to the group country they are originating from, endorsed by USDA or CFIA.
For popular countries, the health certificate requirements are as follows: Australia: An official health certificate is required, along with a declaration by the owner or agent that the pet has not been in contact with livestock or other animals that have not met the entry requirements for New Zealand. United States, Canada, and Europe: An official health certificate is required, along with a rabies vaccination certificate.
United Kingdom: An official health certificate is required, along with a declaration by the owner or agent that the pet has not been in contact with livestock or other animals that have not met the entry requirements for New Zealand, and a rabies vaccination certificate.
It’s important to check the requirements for the specific country of origin as they may vary. Your pet transport service can help you obtain the necessary health certificates and ensure that all requirements are met.
How Much Does It Cost To Import A Pet From Australia To New Zealand?
There are many factors that need to be considered including pet breed, size, route, and transport methods like shipping or airlines. Generally, a standard one-way cost ranges from $1,500 to $5,100 NZD including necessary health checks, vaccinations, and other requirements needed for importing a pet. It’s best to request a quote from us where we will be able to provide valuable information based on your needs and requirements for pet transport to New Zealand.
How long do flights take to NZ
Flights from most Australian cities to New Zealand are roughly 3 hours. Planning for pets trip can take several months to complete due to strict importation and scheduling requirements.
What Flying is like for pets ?
Pets travel in a pressurised, temperature-controlled compartment of the aircraft. The captain maintains temperature at ~18°C, and lighting is dimmed for comfort.
Start Your NZ Pet Transport Journey
Australia: 1300 13 52 52 | New Zealand: 0800 13 52 52