Shipping and Removals in New Zealand

Shipping and removals for New Zealand can be challenging, thanks to the country’s remoteness. Nonetheless, expats have a wide selection of companies to choose from when moving to New Zealand. It is recommended to obtain quotes from multiple companies before making a final decision.

Furnished accommodation rentals in New Zealand are rare – if you plan to return home after a short stay, it may be worth keeping your belongings in your home country instead of shipping them.

Shipping personal belongings to New Zealand

Shipping times vary depending on the origin location, but most companies can provide estimated arrival times. Despite this, delays, especially for sea freight, are common. Air freight is a popular and fast way to ship smaller cargo, but it costs more than shipping by sea (air freight is typically billed by weight, while sea freight is billed according to the size of the container).

That said, you may prefer to spend more on the cost of excess baggage to have some of your belongings arrive faster. 
Note that items made of wood or other natural materials must be decontaminated on arrival in New Zealand and can be destroyed at the discretion of customs – at the expense of the owner, no less. Be sure to inspect your belongings closely for restricted or banned items to avoid unexpected costs. 

Shipping pets to New Zealand

Shipping pets to New Zealand is likely to be a large expense in terms of vet bills, permits, quarantine, and air transport costs. Pets will need to be vaccinated for rabies at least six months before leaving for New Zealand, and proof of the vaccine duration needs to be acquired in the form of a certificate. All pets must also be fitted with a microchip.

The pet will then need a medical check-up in their home country from an accredited vet, as they have to comply with New Zealand's strict biosecurity regulations. Exact regulations that apply to your pet depend on the type of animal and the country of origin.

All cats and dogs, except those arriving from Australia, have to be placed in a quarantine facility for a number of days after they arrive in New Zealand. The facility has to be approved by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) and supervised by official government veterinarians. Visits are permitted, but must follow strict biosecurity regulations.

You should also be aware that there are restrictions on different types of animals. Certain breeds of dogs, such as American Pit Bull Terriers, Dogo Argentinos, and Brazilian Filas can’t be brought into the country at all. Guinea pigs, snakes, birds, and rats are also not allowed. The New Zealand Customs Service page has a full list of the animals and items that are prohibited from entering the country.

More information can be found on the Biosecurity New Zealand website. You should be aware that importing animals is a complicated process, and we therefore recommend you use a reputable pet relocation agency.
 

Useful links:

• New Zealand Customs Service: www.customs.govt.nz
• Biosecurity New Zealand import health standards: www.mpi.govt.nz