Some restrictions apply to cats and dogs transiting through New Zealand or who arrive onboard vessels.
This guidance covers requirements set out in an old import health standard (IHS) issued in 2021.
It has been replaced with a new IHS that came into force on 1 July 2026: Cats and Dogs 2026 – Import Health Standard [PDF, 718 KB]
However, there is a 9-month transition period when you can still import cats and dogs under the requirements of the 2021 IHS.
To find out what import health standard to use, refer to Bringing cats and dogs to NZ
Cats and dogs can only transit through New Zealand if they're from approved countries. A list of approved countries is in the guidance document for cats and dogs.
Guidance document for cats and dogs (2021 process) [PDF, 534 KB]
If your cat or dog is staying on the same aircraft in New Zealand and won't be staying longer than 6 hours, then a transit permit isn't needed.
If your cat or dog is changing aircraft or will be in transit for more than 6 hours, it will need:
Dogs will also need heartworm prevention.
You can apply for a transit permit through our online permit application system.
Animal and plant import permits (APIPS)
Additionally, all dogs and cats transiting for 6 hours or more (up to a maximum of 48 hours) need to have:
Browse a list of MPI-approved quarantine facilities
Apply for a permit using the online import permit application system (APIPS).
Animal and plant import permits (APIPS)
Should transit time exceed 48 hours, your cat or dog will be treated as a rejected consignment unless eligible for import into New Zealand.
Find out about cats and dogs arriving onboard vessels (2021 process)
MPI uses cookies to improve your experience on our site. By using our website, you accept our use of cookies.