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Exporting live animals including livestock

New Zealand has a long history of exporting live animals, including alpacas, birds, livestock, and zoo animals. Live animals transported across international borders need to be accompanied by certification. MPI's role is to help exporters meet the requirements of overseas markets and to ensure the welfare of the animals exported.

In this section

I tēnei wāhanga

Update – 30 April 2023

Exports of livestock by sea have ended

Exports of livestock by sea have ended, with the ban taking effect on 30 April 2023.

The ban follows a transition period of two years to wind down the trade and give stakeholders time to adapt.

Exporter responsibilities

When exporting products from New Zealand you're responsible for:

  • ensuring your products meet New Zealand standards
  • complying with the destination country's eligibility requirements
  • reporting to MPI if your products are no longer fit for their intended purpose or have been refused entry by the destination country
  • keeping the right records.

Who to contact

If you have questions about exporting live animals, email animalexports@mpi.govt.nz.