Pet Travel to New Zealand: Quarantine Questions

Name: Vicki
Number of Pets: 1
Pet Type: Dog
Pet Breed: Collie mix
From: USA
To: New Zealand

Hi PetRelocation,

I see that there is a 180 day quarantine with 150 done in the USA. Is this at a quarantine facility? Or is it something else? This is only a possible move if my daughter returns to New Zealand in the fall.

I have kept Stella for the past six months while my daughter is there, but if she goes back she wants to take the dog. However, if the quarantine is too onerous, I will keep her again.

Thank you,

Vicki

Hi Vicki,

Thanks for your question! Since New Zealand is a rabies-free country, moving pets here does require quite a bit of time and planning. There is indeed a preparation process that takes at least 180 days, but most of this consists of vaccines and paperwork and can be done at home with you. Upon arrival to New Zealand, a minimum 10-day quarantine must be fulfilled at an approved quarantine facility in Auckland, Christchurch or Wellington.

Here is an overview of the pet import requirements for New Zealand. You can also take a look at the official government site for more detailed information about the fees, timelines, and quarantine facilities.

Many people choose to hire professional assistance with a move to New Zealand due to the complex nature of the process. If you'd like to find out more about PetRelocation's door-to-door services, please fill out our online consultation form.

For a better idea of what to expect of this process, you're also welcome to read a few of our New Zealand client pet move stories; here's one about Wednesday the cat, and here is an overview of a three pug move to New Zealand.

Hopefully this helps to get you started! Good luck, and please let us know if we can be of further assistance.