Taking a pet from the United States to New Zealand
What the USDA APHIS page for New Zealand says about exporting a pet there.
What this destination requires
Dogs and Cats Visit New Zealand's website for complete and up-to-date information, as well as a printable checklist (see " Resources ") for traveling with your pet to New Zealand.
The following animal breeds are prohibited: Dogs: Brazilian Fila, Dog Argentino, Japanese Tosa, Perro de Presa Canario, American Pit Bull Terrier (any type), hybrid species (any type) Cats: Hybrid species, except for Bengal cats with documentation showing five generations of domestic ancestry Requirements: Download the guidance document for cats and dogs View the step-by-step guide to bringing cats and dogs to New Zealand Note: New Zealand confirmed they will accept the official seals being placed on the crates by a USDA-accredited veterinarian.
The mainland United States, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Northern Mariana Islands are considered a Category 3 country (rabies absent or well-controlled).
Hawaii, Guam, and American Samoa are considered a Category 2 country (rabies-free).
Read the source
This page summarises the USDA APHIS page Pet Travel From the United States to New Zealand. That page is the authority; read it in full before you travel.
Source: USDA APHIS — https://www.aphis.usda.gov/pet-travel/us-to-another-country-export/pet-travel-us-new-zealand. Record retrieved September 2026; APHIS last modified this page March 13, 2026.
This page summarises a U.S. government page and is not legal or veterinary advice. Rules change; confirm the requirements with APHIS and your destination country before you travel.