No matter whether you’re relocating for work, lifestyle, or a fresh start, moving from New Zealand to Australia is a big decision, and bringing your dog along makes it even more important.
Moving a dog from New Zealand to Australia may seem overwhelming at first, but with our experienced team by your side and our guide to follow, the journey will be smooth and stress-free for both you and your pup! At Jetpets NZ, we’ve helped families relocate their pets safely and comfortably internationally including Australia. See below for our tips on moving your four legged friend to the land down under!
Requirements for Bringing Your Dog to Australia
Although Australia has strict biosecurity laws to protect its environment, economy, health and wellbeing, and security, it maintains a close relationship with New Zealand that makes pet travel relatively straightforward compared to other locations.
To begin with, your dog must be microchipped for identification, and we recommend working with one of our Jetpets NZ partnering veterinarians who are also approved by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) in New Zealand. Your vet will provide the necessary documentation, including an export certificate that confirms your dog meets Australia’s import conditions.
You’ll also need to make sure your pup complies with the Overseas Market Access Requirements (OMARs) – a set of animal health standards for entering Australia. This typically includes ensuring your pet is free of parasites, healthy, and up-to-date on all vaccinations. In some cases, an Owner Statutory Declaration form may be required to confirm ownership and travel details.
Many pet owners choose to partner with a licensed pet transport provider, like Jetpets, to simplify the paperwork, coordinate logistics, and ensure nothing is overlooked. It takes the pressure off you and ensures your furry friend is in safe hands throughout the journey. For some more information on transporting your dog for the move, visit the Ministry for Primary Industries online guide.
What’s Involved in the Journey?
Taking your furry companion from NZ to Australia is one of the easier and straightforward moves we handle! At Jetpets, our experienced pet handlers team manages everything from the travel logistics and flight bookings to arranging accommodation for your pet, providing airline-approved travel crates, offering access to our comfortable pet transit lounge in Auckland , and overseeing check-in and pickup on both ends of the journey.
Our headquarters in Australia is conveniently located near Melbourne International Airport and the government-run quarantine facility in Mickleham, ensuring your pet has a smooth entry into Australia. Lucky for you and your pet, however, most pets traveling from New Zealand aren’t required to be quarantined as long as all documentation is complete and correct. That means in many cases, your dog can be reunited with you the very same day they land in your chosen destination.
Our teams in both countries work together to monitor every step of the journey. We offer travel updates and a great support network, giving you peace of mind while your pooch is being transported.
How to Prepare Your Pup for the Move
Major changes, like flying to a new country, can be just as unsettling for dogs as they are for us. Preparing your pup to feel safe and comfortable throughout their travel journey can significantly improve their experience and help them adjust more easily.
A few weeks before your move, we suggest starting to introduce your dog to the travel crate they’ll be flying in. Encourage them to sleep or relax inside with their favourite toys or a familiar item. This can help them see the crate as a safe space, not something to be afraid of!
Keep your dog’s feeding routine regular in the lead-up to departure, and avoid feeding them right before travel to prevent an upset stomach. Also ensure their vaccinations are up to date and book a vet check to confirm they’re fit for flying as well.
If your doggy tends to get anxious or has specific health needs, it’s a good idea to chat with your vet and reach out to our team for some travel advice.
Helping Your Doggie Adjust After Arrival
Once your dog arrives in Australia, our team at Jetpets will be there to greet them and provide comfort and care. Assuming all the paperwork is correct, there’s no quarantine period for dogs arriving from New Zealand, so you’ll be back with your pal in no time.
We also offer door-to-door pet travel services that include collecting your pet from the airport and delivering them safely to your home. This ensures your initial moments back together after travelling can be positive and enjoyable, without the stress of navigating airport pickups and transport.
Some dogs adjust instantly to their new environment, while others need a few days or weeks to settle in. To help your pup, make sure to keep their usual routines, introduce them gradually to their new surroundings, and continue to give them lots of love and reassurance.
Customer Testimonial
Rizzo travelled from Christchurch, NZ to Sydney, Australia
“Everything went very smoothly, thanks for all your help throughout the process! I could not have done it without you. Attached is a picture of Rizzo back in Australia once again, after an amazing year-long adventure in New Zealand, now at our new home in Cooma, NSW. I’ve also attached a pic of her kayaking on Lake Wanaka in NZ just before we left. Thanks again” – Candice
Jetpets Makes Pet Travel Between NZ and Australia Simple
Whether you’re planning or already beginning your journey, we’re here to guide you through the process. From vet checks to flights and reunions, Jetpets take care of it all – so you and your puppy pal can focus on the adventure ahead.
Contact us to learn more about moving your dog from New Zealand to Australia.