Follow the steps
Check exemption list before you start
Some types of animals can be exported without an AWEC. Check the exemptions list before you start.
Check the list of animals exempt from getting an AWEC
Examples of animals that need an AWEC
You must apply to MPI to get an AWEC for non-exempt:
- cats and dogs
- day old poultry
- horses
- rabbits, rodents, guinea pigs, and water dragons.
You must also make sure all other export documentation needed to export live animals is complete.
Refer to the steps to exporting live animals to find out what other documentation you need
Check the fees that will apply
Read the guidance documents relevant to the species you are planning to export
MPI has developed species-specific guidance to help exporters plan for and manage animal welfare throughout the export process. Exporters are encouraged to review any relevant guidance as early as possible, including when selecting and preparing animals for export.
The guidance provides practical information on animal welfare considerations during preparation, transport, and export, and explains how exporters can meet their obligations under the Animal Welfare Act 1999 and any animal welfare conditions that may apply to an Animal Welfare Export Certificate (AWEC).
Guidance document: Transport of horses exported by air [PDF, 910 KB]
Guidance document: Transport of poultry day-old chicks by air [PDF, 377 KB]
Legal obligations
Regulations relating to animal exports and animal welfare export certificates are in Part 3 of the Animal Welfare Act 1999. Exporters need to be familiar with the legislation.
Apply for your Animal Welfare Export Certificate (AWEC)
To get an AWEC, you must contact the relevant MPI Verification Services (MPI VS) office for the AWEC application:
- Auckland office: liveanimalsauckland@mpi.govt.nz
- Wellington office: wellingtoncertification@mpi.govt.nz
- Christchurch office: liveanimalschristchurch@mpi.govt.nz
For non-exempt cats and dogs, use this application form:
AWEC application form for non-exempt cats and dogs [PDF, 206 KB]
Assessing your application
When MPI has your completed documentation, we will start assessing your application to make sure the arrangements for the export satisfy the relevant technical standards or guidance material. The assessment may involve contacting you by email or telephone for further information or clarification. Sometimes a meeting may also be needed before the assessment is completed.
If the assessment is unfavourable, MPI staff will tell you the reasons and how to resolve them to get an AWEC. If the issues cannot be resolved you may decide to abandon the export application.
MPI VS will issue the AWEC at the time of export provided all requirements for the welfare of the animals have been met.
You're ready to export when the MPI VS veterinarian completes verification that all of the conditions of export have been met and issues the final AWEC.