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New Zealand
Dog & Cat Regulations
Vaccinations
Vaccination and testing requirements depend on your country/territory category under New Zealand’s Cats and Dogs Import Health Standard (IHS). Follow the IHS and its guidance for country categories (Category 1: Australia; Category 2: Rabies-free; Category 3: Rabies-absent or well controlled). Rabies vaccination and rabies antibody testing (RNATT) apply as specified by the IHS for your category.
Certifications
An import permit from the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is generally required for cats and dogs. The MPI step-by-step guide explains when a permit is needed (cats and dogs from Australia are generally exempt).
- Apply for the MPI import permit according to the MPI step-by-step guide.
- Carry the permit and any other IHS-required documents with your pet.
Microchip
A permanent microchip is required and must match all identification on the veterinary certificate(s) and other documents, in accordance with the Cats and Dogs IHS.
Origin Requirements
No origin-specific requirements for this pet.
More Info
Entry, quarantine, and logistics
Cats and dogs must arrive at approved airports (Auckland or Christchurch). For most Category 2–3 imports, a minimum quarantine period of 10 days at an MPI-approved facility applies. Follow MPI’s pre-arrival notification process and all instructions in the step-by-step guide and IHS guidance document.
- Enter New Zealand via Auckland or Christchurch international airports.
- Category 2–3 pets generally complete at least 10 days of quarantine at an MPI-approved facility.
- Follow MPI’s pre-arrival notification requirements.
- Book quarantine (if required) in advance as per MPI guidance.
Country/territory categories
MPI groups origins into three categories for cats and dogs: Category 1 (Australia), Category 2 (Rabies-free), and Category 3 (Rabies-absent or well controlled). Requirements differ by category; consult the IHS and its guidance.
Prohibited breeds/types (Dog Control Act 1996)
New Zealand law prohibits the import of certain dog breeds/types. Check the MPI step-by-step guide for the current list under the Dog Control Act 1996.
- American Pit Bull Terrier (type) is prohibited.
- Brazilian Fila is prohibited.
- Dogo Argentino is prohibited.
- Japanese Tosa is prohibited.
- Perro de Presa Canario is prohibited.
