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Pet Relocation to New Zealand

Relocating your pet to New Zealand requires detailed planning and strict compliance with biosecurity regulations. Our veterinary-led team manages every step — from vaccinations and testing to documentation and quarantine — ensuring a safe and smooth relocation.

Chigga Miature Pinscher In cabin pet travel.png
Chigga
Relocated to New Zealand 
Moving to New Zealand
New Zealand has one of the strictest biosecurity regulations  in the world.  This is because this island country is free of many of the common diseases and parasites of the world.
Pets must meet vaccination, blood testing, and documentation requirements well in advance to ensure successful entry.
 
Key Requirements ✅
  • ISO-compliant microchip (before vaccinations)
  • Rabies vaccination and rabies blood test (RNATT)
  • Import permit approval
  • Dogs require a second group of blood tests for various diseases within a month of export. 
  • Pre-export veterinary health certification (within 2 days of travel)
  • Mandatory quarantine on arrival (10 days)

All relocations are managed under veterinary supervision, with a priority on health, welfare and safety at every step.

Pet Travel Requirements for New Zealand

Clear guidance on requirements, documentation, and process to ensure a smooth and compliant relocation.

Importing Pets to New Zealand

New Zealand enforces strict biosecurity measures to protect its ecosystem. Pets must meet all vaccination, testing, and documentation requirements before travel approval is granted.

   •    Microchip identification (mandatory)
   •    Rabies vaccination and antibody testing (RNATT)
   •    Import permit approval
   •    Pre-export veterinary certification
   •    Quarantine booking prior to arrival

Required Documentation

Accurate documentation is essential for entry into New Zealand. This includes import permits, vaccination records, laboratory test results, and official veterinary health certificates.

Health Checks & Vaccinations

Pets must undergo a strict health process before travel. This includes rabies vaccination, blood testing, and veterinary certification confirming compliance with New Zealand regulations.

Quarantine Requirements

Quarantine is mandatory for pets entering New Zealand. Duration depends on compliance and origin country, and must be booked in advance.

Process Timeline

Pet relocation to New Zealand typically takes 4–7 months, due to vaccination schedules, testing, and permit approvals.

Veterinary-Led Relocation Support

All relocations are handled under veterinary supervision, ensuring full compliance with New Zealand’s import regulations. Our team manages the entire process for a safe and stress-free experience.

Led by Dr Gerry (IPATA President), our approach combines clinical expertise with global relocation experience. This ensures your pet’s journey is safe, compliant, and professionally managed at every stage.

Import Pets
Export Pets
Documents
Health checks
Quarantine
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Frequently Asked Questions – Pet Travel to New Zealand

How long does it take to relocate a pet to New Zealand?

It typically takes 4–7 months due to strict requirements and preparation timelines.

Is quarantine required for pets entering New Zealand?

Yes, quarantine is mandatory for all pets entering New Zealand.

What documents are required for pet relocation to New Zealand?

Import permit, vaccination records, RNATT test results, other export blood test reports (dogs) and export health certificate.

Can you handle the entire relocation process?

Yes, our veterinary-led team handles everything from start to finish.

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