New zealand Pet Relocation Requirements Overview: Moving Pets to New Zealand from Hong Kong (Relocation from/to other territories, please feel free to contact us for details) New Zealand enforces extremely strict biosecurity and import regulations to protect its unique environment and animal health. Only cats and dogs from approved countries or rabies-free countries are accepted for import. Pets arriving in New Zealand must enter as manifest cargo, and no pets are allowed as excess baggage or in the cabin on commercial flights. Quarantine is mandatory, typically lasting at least 10 days, with all import procedures carefully regulated by the New Zealand Ministry. For reference only. Please refer to corresponding government channels for the most updated information.
Planning should begin 5 to 6 months ahead of the intended departure date to complete all health checks, vaccinations, blood tests, documentation, and quarantine booking. An import permit application must be submitted before travel. Microchipping with an ISO-compliant electronic pet identification microchip is mandatory. Key Planning Requirements: Timeline & Advanced Planning
Essential Requirements Checklist 1. Country Classification & Special Conditions New Zealand categorizes source countries based on rabies risk and other biosecurity criteria. Hong Kong is considered a rabies- free area, but all pets must still meet stringent import requirements and quarantine. 2. Microchipping Mandatory ISO-compliant electronic microchip implantation 3. Vaccination & Blood Testing Vaccinations must include core vaccines appropriate for dogs (such as DHLPP) and cats (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia), and be up to date. Blood tests for rabies antibody levels may be required depending on the country of origin, with specific timing protocols to be followed. 4. Permits & Documentation An import permit must be obtained in advance. Official New Zealand Animal Health Certificates are required.
Age Restrictions & Breed Prohibitions Pets must meet minimum age requirements, generally at least 10 weeks old prior to vaccination and shipment. Strict prohibitions apply to certain dog breeds, including American Pit Bull Terrier, Japanese Tosa, Perro de Presa Canario, Dogo Argentino, and Brazilian Fila, which cannot be imported into New Zealand.
Quarantine & Arrival Process All pets must undergo a minimum 10-day quarantine after arrival in approved quarantine facilities in Auckland or Christchurch. Quarantine clearance depends on meeting all import requirements and health checks. Failure to comply may result in extended quarantine or rejection.
PetMover offers comprehensive door-to-door pet relocation services between your country of origin and New Zealand, including veterinary appointment coordination, documentation preparation, import permit assistance, flight and quarantine booking, and personalized support to ensure a smooth and safe transition. Expert Pet Relocation Support Contact Petmover for expert assistance to ensure your pet’s compliance with New Zealand’s strict import rules and a comfortable relocation journey.