Air New Zealand – Pet Policy
| Pet Type | Cabin | Checked Baggage / Cargo | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dog | No (service dogs only, free of charge) | Yes (as checked baggage/cargo; must meet crate, doc, breed/entry requirements) | Brachycephalic breeds at owner’s risk (waiver required); no pets to/from some countries; import docs, MPI permit mandatory |
| Cat | No | Yes | Same as dogs for crate/doc/route rules |
| Bird | No | Cargo only (international; subject to clearance and CITES laws) | Not permitted in checked baggage/cabin; permits needed |
| Rabbit | No | Cargo only | Strict entry limits; book via dedicated cargo |
| Reptile | No | No | Not accepted under NZ biosecurity law |
| Fish | No | No | Not accepted |
Important Guidelines
- All pets (except certified service dogs) must travel as checked baggage or as manifest cargo; book pet passage in advance—certain aircraft/routes have limited or no pet space.
- Puppies/kittens must be at least 8 weeks old, fully weaned; under 12 weeks or 6kg must travel with mother. No unfit, unvaccinated, pregnant, or convalescent animals accepted.
- IATA-compliant hard crate required for every animal; animal must stand/turn/lie down comfortably; mesh/soft bags never accepted.
- Snub-nosed breeds subject to special waiver and may not travel during heat; dangerous breeds may be refused.
- International passengers: strict import/export clearance, including pre-approval via New Zealand MPI and outstation authorities; domestic check-in recommended 1+ hour before flight.
- No pets accepted on some routes/countries due to local law (e.g. flights to/from Australia, Hawaii; confirm at booking).
- Service dogs always travel free in cabin with correct certification and 48h+ advance booking; all other pets must be in the hold/cargo.
Woofly Tips
- Book pet space as soon as you have airline tickets—capacity is strictly limited on many aircraft, especially between major cities and on long-haul routes.
- Familiarize your pet with its crate before travel; crate anxiety is a frequent cause for refusal at check-in.
- Prepare all documentation well in advance: rabies vaccination, veterinary health certificate less than 10 days old, MPI and import/export permits if flying internationally.
- Arrive at check-in desk with extra time for checked pets; check security and crate requirements, especially in summer months or when transporting snub-nosed breeds.
- Contact Air New Zealand customer support for clarification if your animal is out of the ordinary (e.g., small mammals, birds, rabbits) or if transferring between airlines, as connecting policies may differ.
Last updated: July 25, 2025