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
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.
OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU
The only pet transport company in Australia with a formal
International Service Guarantee
Your pet's international move is managed by experienced professionals every step of the way — backed by the only guarantee of its kind in the industry.
Fully compliant travel
All arrangements completed in a timely, secure and fully compliant manner — nothing left to chance.
Your pet's comfort first
Your pet acclimatises to their crate before travel and flies in a pressurised, temperature-controlled cabin at 18°C.
End-to-end management
From permits and health checks to airline coordination and delivery — we handle every detail so you don't have to.
Trusted by industry leaders and government bodies
What’s Included in Your NZ Pet Move
- Flights
- Airline-approved travel crate
- Veterinary Charges:
- Final vet inspection
- Final internal & external treatments day prior
- AQIS Export Paperwork and Health Certificate
- Two days boarding at Dogtainers™ private boarding facility
- Customs / veterinary clearance fees
- Airport terminal fees
- Deluxe fleece vet bedding
Additional Services Offered:
- Pet pickup and delivery
- Tests and treatments required for NZ
- Pet calming Adaptil collar for dogs
TRUSTED SINCE 1971
Why Choose Dogtainers
Australia's most trusted pet transport company — 50 years of experience, offices in every state, and a team of genuine pet lovers.
● Official RSPCA partner
● IPATA member
● Australia's oldest pet transport company
Offices in every state
The only pet transport company with local offices and staff in every state and territory — always someone nearby looking after your pet.
50 years of experience
Operating since 1971 — Australia's oldest pet transport company, moving thousands of pets safely every year.
Accredited and trusted
Official RSPCA partner and IPATA member. Your pet is in certified hands from pick-up to delivery.
Pet lovers, just like you
We know pets are family. Every team member shares your commitment to their care and wellbeing.
What Flying Is Like For Pets
Pet transport by air is the quickest and most efficient way of moving your pet to or from New Zealand with the least amount of hassle. Pets travel in their own section of the cargo cabin, which is pressurised just like the cabin you fly in. The captain of the plane keeps the air-conditioning set to a comfortable 18ºC and the lights are dimmed.
Returning to Australia
The good news is that going from New Zealand to Australia is far simpler than the reverse. This is because of New Zealand’s strict pet import laws and regulations. However, it is still best to plan your pet’s travel with an experienced professional. Our trained import consultants can guide you through the process, including discussing what you can expect, and providing you with a time and cost estimate.
General Information
In most cases, your pets will stay with us in our on-site office prior to their flight. Our trained staff will take great care of your pet and their pre-flight preparations.
Upon arrival, the airline’s freight handler will check their welfare and proceed to start the customs clearance with the consignee.
Please note:
- All bedding, toys and clothing put inside the crate will be destroyed upon arrival.
- All blood tests must be sent to an approved lab for testing (IDEXX Brisbane).
- All export preparations must be done with an Australian Registered Vet.
- You will need to provide an ORIGINAL copy of all vaccinations and blood test results as these will need to travel with your pet/s.
The Process
A Clear Path, Every Step of the Way
From first enquiry to safe arrival, our team manages every requirement so your pet's journey stays simple and stress-free.
Enquiry
Tell us about your pet, travel dates and destination.
Health & Vaccinations
Required tests and treatments completed to schedule.
Documentation
Import permits and paperwork lodged and approved.
Booking & Crate Prep
Pre-Flight Check
Final vet clearance and comfort check before departure.
Arrival & Delivery
Customs cleared and your pet safely reunited with you.
Please allow enough time for the full process — depending on your destination country's requirements, this can take anywhere from 2 to 6 months. Our team will confirm the exact timeline for your pet's journey.
NZ REQUIREMENTS
All requirements for transporting pets to New Zealand are managed with care, following all import and health regulations. From vaccinations and documentation to final checks and travel, every step ensures a safe and compliant journey for your pet.
Dogs
- Heartworm Treatment (within 4 days of departure)
- 1st blood test for Babesia Gibsoni PCR
- 2nd blood test for Babesia Gibsoni PCR (30 days after 1st Blood test)
- Blood test for Heartworm – for dogs over 6 months old only (30 days after 1st Blood test and within 16 days of departure)
- External Parasitic Treatments
- 1st round: Done within 30 days of departure & at least 14 days before the 2nd round
- 2nd round: Done within 2 days of departure
- Internal Parasitic Treatments
- 1st round: Done within 30 days of departure & at least 14 days before the 2nd round
- 2nd round: Done within 4 days of departure
- AQIS export paperwork
- Health certificate
- Final veterinary inspection
- Microchip implanted (ISO Standard)
Cats
- External Parasitic Treatments
- 1st round: Done within 30 days of departure & at least 14 days before the 2nd round
- 2nd round: Done within 2 days of departure
- Internal Parasitic Treatments
- 1st round: Done within 30 days of departure & at least 14 days before the 2nd round
- 2nd round: Done within 4 days of departure
- AQIS export paperwork
- Health certificate
- Final veterinary inspection
- Microchip implanted (ISO Standard)
Vaccines:
- Dogs
- C5 Vaccination – vaccines should be at least 14 days old before export.
- Cats:
- F3 Vaccination – vaccines should be at least 14 days old before export.
NZ BANNED BREEDS
American Pit Bull Terrier
Japanese Tosa
Dogo Argentino
Perro de Presa Canario
Brazilian Fila
Dogtainers and Pet Travel To and From New Zealand
For more than 50 years, Dogtainers has been providing pet transport from Australia to New Zealand (and in reverse). We send more pets to and from New Zealand than any other country in the world. With our experienced professionals, you can rest assured that your pet is in the most capable hands. Taking care of your pet’s comfort and safety is our number one priority.
Get a free online quote or call Dogtainers now to start planning your international pet transport to or from New Zealand.
Within Australia: 1300 13 52 52
Within New Zealand: 0800 13 52 52
Pet Transport to New Zealand FAQs
How Much Does It Cost To Transport A Pet To New Zealand?
The cost of transporting your pet will vary depending on several factors, such as the route, breed, weight, and mode of transport, so it’s best to get a Quote to get a better idea of the costs involved.
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?
The cost of transporting your pet will vary depending on several factors, such as the route, breed, weight, and mode of transport, so it’s best to get a Quote to get a better idea of the costs involved.