Trans-Tasman Travel · New Zealand → Australia

Expert trans-Tasman pet transport from New Zealand to Australia

Australia has some of the world's most complex biosecurity requirements. We manage every treatment, certificate, and permit so your dog or cat arrives safely - with no quarantine required for New Zealand pets.

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Why Choose Star Pet Travel

Trans-Tasman expertise you can trust

AQIS & Biosecurity Compliance

Australian biosecurity rules are among the strictest in the world. We manage all AQIS (Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service) requirements, import permits, and treatment protocols so nothing is missed.

Health Certificates & Vet Coordination

We provide a precise veterinary checklist and timeline so your vet knows exactly what is required - parasite treatments, health inspections, and government endorsement of certificates.

Airline Cargo Coordination

We manage airline bookings, cargo space, and layover logistics - choosing routes that minimise transit time and stress for your pet.

IATA-Approved Crates

We advise on the correct IATA-compliant crate size for your pet and can source approved crates. Australia requires solid-sided crates with specific ventilation - we ensure yours meets all requirements.

No Quarantine for NZ Pets

Pets travelling from New Zealand to Australia do not require quarantine - one of the key advantages of the trans-Tasman relationship. We manage compliance so your pet moves seamlessly.

Boarding at Glenstar Kennels

Pre-flight boarding available at Glenstar Kennels near Christchurch International Airport - perfect if you're flying out of Christchurch or need care before or after an international connection.

What's Included

Everything taken care of, end to end

  • AQIS import permit applications and compliance management
  • Country-specific veterinary checklist and treatment timeline
  • Health certificate coordination and government endorsement
  • Airline cargo bookings on suitable trans-Tasman routes
  • IATA-approved travel crates correctly sized for your pet
  • Pre-flight boarding at Glenstar Kennels when required
  • Delivery to and from airports when required
  • Post-arrival guidance and collection instructions

How It Works

Step by step, we've got it covered

  1. 1

    Initial consultation

    We discuss your pet's breed, size, health status, and travel timeline. Australia has strict treatment windows, so we need to plan from the start.

  2. 2

    Veterinary treatment timeline

    We provide a precise checklist for your vet: parasite treatments, health inspections, and required certificates - all with exact timing to meet Australian import rules.

  3. 3

    Import permit & documentation

    We apply for the Australian import permit and manage all government paperwork, ensuring every document is correctly completed and endorsed before travel.

  4. 4

    Crate preparation

    We advise on the correct IATA-compliant crate and ensure it meets Australia's specific requirements. Crate familiarisation tips are provided to reduce stress on the day.

  5. 5

    Flight booking & coordination

    We book airline cargo space on a suitable trans-Tasman route, manage check-in requirements, and coordinate with airline staff at both ends.

  6. 6

    Safe arrival in Australia

    Your pet arrives at the Australian destination airport. We provide full instructions for collection from the cargo terminal, including what to expect at biosecurity.

Travel Requirements

What your pet needs to travel to Australia

  • Pets must travel in an IATA-approved, solid-sided crate
  • Parasite treatments must be completed within specific timeframes before departure
  • A government-endorsed health certificate is required
  • An Australian import permit must be obtained prior to travel
  • Sedation is not permitted under airline and IATA regulations
  • Minimum age requirements apply for puppies and kittens
  • Bookings should be made as early as possible - at least 4 weeks before departure is recommended

Treatment windows are strict under Australian biosecurity rules. Starting the process early is essential - contact us as soon as you have a travel date in mind.

Got Questions?

New Zealand to Australia Pet Transport - FAQ

Do pets from New Zealand need to quarantine in Australia?
No - pets travelling from New Zealand to Australia do not require quarantine, which is one of the significant advantages of the trans-Tasman arrangement. However, they must still meet all Australian biosecurity and import requirements. We manage all of this on your behalf.
What treatments does my pet need before travelling to Australia?
Australian biosecurity requirements include specific parasite treatments (fleas, ticks, tapeworm) that must be completed within strict timeframes before departure. We provide your vet with a precise treatment timeline so nothing is missed and treatments fall within the required windows.
How far in advance should I start the process?
We recommend starting at least 6–8 weeks before your intended travel date. Treatment windows, import permit processing, and health certificate timing all need to align - and rushing the process risks compliance failures that can delay or prevent travel.
Can I use any vet for the health certificate?
Yes, your regular vet can complete the health inspection and certificate. However, the certificate must then be endorsed by a government-authorised veterinarian. We guide you through this process and provide your vet with the exact wording and requirements.
What happens at the Australian airport on arrival?
Your pet will be released directly to you or your nominated receiver from the cargo terminal after biosecurity clearance. We provide full instructions beforehand so you know exactly where to go and what to bring.
Can I send a cat to Australia the same way?
Yes - the process for cats is very similar to dogs, with the same biosecurity and import requirements applying. We handle trans-Tasman travel for both dogs and cats.

Still have questions? Get in touch - we're happy to help.

Ready to move your pet to Australia?

Get in touch today for a personalised quote. We'll map out the treatment timeline and handle everything from permits to check-in.

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Or call 027 273 1049