A family business built on a lifetime of animal care
Since 1978 we have been caring for animals at Glenstar Kennels. Today, Betty and Desiree bring that same dedication to every pet journey we manage - near or far.
Our Story
A Family Business Built on a Lifetime of Animal Care
Star Pet Travel was born from personal experience. Betty and Len Hanson founded Glenstar Kennels in 1978, driven by their passion for breeding, field trialling, and showing Labradors. Through years of relocating their own dogs within New Zealand and overseas, they recognised the need for a truly caring, NZ-owned pet transport service - and Star Pet Travel was created.
Today, Betty and Desiree manage everything together. Desiree brings a rare blend of qualifications: trained Animal Technician, Veterinary Nurse, professional dog groomer, and experience working alongside animal behaviourists. Betty's career as a New Zealand Police Officer provides the rigour for complex logistics and compliance.
As active breeders of Labradors and Lagotto Romagnolo, they work closely with breeders in Australia and Europe - giving them unique, first-hand insight into what shipping a loved pet across borders truly involves.
The Team
People who care, because they've been there
Co-founder & Director
Betty Hanson
Betty co-founded Glenstar Kennels in 1978, driven by a lifelong passion for breeding, field trialling, and showing Labradors. Her career as a New Zealand Police Officer gave her the rigour for managing complex logistics and compliance requirements. She is a Dogs New Zealand Registered Judge and has been relocating her own dogs nationally and internationally for decades - experience that shaped everything Star Pet Travel stands for.
Operations Manager
Desiree Hanson
Desiree brings a rare combination of veterinary and animal behaviour qualifications to every pet journey she oversees. Working alongside Betty, she manages day-to-day operations, client communication, and the welfare of every animal in their care. As an active breeder of Lagotto Romagnolo - importing dogs from Australia and Europe - she understands first-hand what it means to trust someone with your most precious companion.
Why Choose Star Pet Travel?
Your pet's safety
is our priority
Experienced & Caring Team
Pet travel experts who treat your pet like family. Desiree is a trained Veterinary Nurse and Animal Technician.
End-to-End Service
We manage every detail from start to finish - paperwork, crates, flights, and more.
Stress-Free Process
We make the journey as calm and comfortable as possible - for your pet and for you.
Global Coverage
We work with trusted partners worldwide - from Australia and the Pacific to Europe and beyond.
Ready to move your pet with confidence?
Talk to Betty and Desiree directly. We'll guide you through every step and give you a no-obligation estimate tailored to your pet's journey.
Or call 027 273 1049