

Frequently Asked Questions – NZ to Aus Travel
No. Pets (cats and dogs) travelling directly from New Zealand do not require quarantine upon arrival in Australia, provided all import conditions are met.
Yes. An import permit issued by the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) is required for pets relocating from New Zealand.
A government-issued veterinary health certificate is required. This must be completed by an official government veterinarian and issued within five (5) days of departure.
Yes. Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO-compatible microchip, which should be recorded on all documents, including the statutory declaration and health certificate.
Yes. All core vaccinations must be up to date, and any required vaccinations (such as rabies, if applicable in your pet’s history) must be administered after microchipping.
A statutory declaration confirms important details about your pet, including:
- Breed, age, sex, and microchip number
- Proof that your pet has resided in New Zealand since birth or for at least 180 days if imported from another country
- Confirmation that your pet is not a prohibited breed, and (if female) not pregnant beyond 40 days or nursing at the time of export
We’ll help you prepare and submit this document correctly.
Yes. Australia prohibits the import of certain breeds. It's important to check the DAFF website for the most current list of restricted or banned breeds.
Unfortunately, no. Pets must travel as manifested cargo on approved routes and airlines when flying internationally from New Zealand to Australia.
The cost of pet relocation depends on factors like:
- Your pet’s breed and size
- Pickup and drop-off locations
- Airline fees and customs charges
Contact us for a personalised quote based on your pet’s details.
Once your pet has cleared international entry, domestic travel within Australia is straightforward, but each state may have slightly different rules. It’s best to check local guidelines if you're flying interstate.
Here are some key tips:
- Start early: Give yourself time to complete paperwork, veterinary checks, and travel bookings
- Get expert help: Pet transport companies like Departure Pets can manage the process end-to-end
- Stay informed: Always check the official DAFF website for the latest import conditions and policy updates
Still have questions? Get in touch and we would be happy to help out!
