Domestic animal imports

Importation of domestic animals is subject to both Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry/Biosecurity New Zealand (MAFBNZ) and Customs clearance.

Prior to shipping an animal to New Zealand you should contact MAFBNZ to find out what requirements/documentation is needed. On arrival you will need to obtain a Biosecurity clearance for your animal from MAFBNZ. They will need to sight the required accompanying documents.

In addition, Customs will ask to sight this clearance before the animal will be released to you. In addition to the Biosecurity clearance Customs will ask you for the following documents:

• an invoice or receipt from the supplier showing the price paid for the animal
• in the case where the animal is a gift or acquired free of charge, some form of evidence as to the actual value of the animal
• the airway bill or bill of lading showing the cost of transporting the animal to New Zealand
• supplementary documents such as the vaccination certificate and evidence of ownership
• identification of the importer, such as drivers licence or passport.

Animals that are newly purchased, have been obtained as a result of an exchange between breeders, or are to be used for breeding purposes are subject to the payment of GST.

GST is calculated on the total of the value of the animal plus the freight and insurance to transport the animal to New Zealand.  GST is currently levied at 12.5%. In addition an Import Transaction fee will apply to animals being imported for commercial purposes. The Import Transaction fee is currently NZ$28.75 (GST inclusive). This fee includes a biosecurity risk screening levy of NZ$4.00 that is collected by Customs on behalf of MAFBNZ.

Note: Certain species of dogs are prohibited imports as specified in the Dog Control Act 1996. You will be required to sign a declaration certifying that your dog is not one of these breeds. Refer to Domestic pets for more information.