• Airlines in New Zealand allow small pets to fly in the cabin and transport larger animals as cargo on domestic and international flights. They have specific policies, fees and restrictions regarding pet reservations, carriers, documents and transport that owners should understand.

Key Details of New Zealand Airlines Pet Policies

• New Zealand airlines such as Air New Zealand and Jetstar permit small dogs and cats to fly in the cabin in an approved carrier for a fee. Advance reservations are required as space is limited. Larger pets must travel as checked cargo in compliant kennels. Owners must comply with all New Zealand and destination country regulations and provide health certificates. Service animals fly free in the cabin with documentation. Pet relief areas are available at some airport terminals.

Transporting Small Pets in the Cabin

• New Zealand airlines allow small dogs and cats to fly in the main cabin in an approved soft-sided or hard-sided carrier that fits under the seat. Carriers must have proper ventilation, accessible openings and closures. Advance payment of the applicable fee is required. The pet must remain in the carrier under the owner's seat for the entire flight without disturbing others. Airlines limit cabin pets to 1 or 2 per passenger depending on aircraft type. Certain snub-nosed breeds are prohibited in the cabin. Pets should be at least 12 weeks old and have required vaccinations. Owners must comply with all destination entry requirements.

Transporting Larger Pets as Cargo

• Most larger pets must travel as accompanied cargo in airline-approved kennels. Use an IATA-compliant rigid plastic or fiberglass kennel properly secured and labeled indicating upright animal orientation. Allow enough room for pets to stand, turn and lie down. Cargo reservations are required at least 48 hours before flight. Fees start around $200 NZD each way. Pets are transported in pressurized, climate-controlled holds. Time should be allowed for exercise and relief between connections. Extreme weather conditions can prevent cargo pet transport.

Health Certificates and Documents Required

• A veterinary health certificate is mandatory for all pets traveling as cargo and recommended for cabin pets on New Zealand airlines. The certificate must be issued by a licensed vet within 10 days of travel and document up-to-date rabies and routine vaccinations. For entry into certain destinations, specific immunizations and import permits must be obtained in advance and presented at check-in. Failure to produce required documentation can result in denied transport.

Restrictions on Pet Travel

• Certain dog breeds are prohibited from flying as cargo or cabin pets with New Zealand airlines, including Pit Bulls, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Perro de Presa Canario and Japanese Tosa. Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dog and cat breeds cannot fly in the cabin. Pregnant, unweaned and ill pets may be denied transport. Most airlines enforce a minimum pet age of 12 weeks. Pets under 16 weeks generally cannot travel as cargo. Other restrictions depend on destination regulations.

Tips for Smooth Pet Travel on New Zealand Airlines

• Review airline pet policies in detail to ensure compliance.

• Use an airline approved carrier in good condition with proper interior bedding and labels.

• Reserve well in advance as cabin and cargo pet capacity is limited.

• Affix an ID tag inside carrier with your contact details.

• Obtain correct veterinary health certificates before travel.

• Carry all documents and certificates and have these ready at check-in.

• Request priority kennel return for minimal waiting upon arrival.

• For long flights, pack adequate interior carrier food, water, litter pan.

• Take direct routes when possible to limit risks associated with connections.

• Consider pet relocation service for complicated international moves.

Dog Policies on New Zealand Airlines

• New Zealand airlines have specific policies regarding transporting dogs as cabin pets or cargo:

• In-Cabin Dogs

• Use an approved soft carrier that fits fully under the seat. Only certain small dog breeds are permitted in the cabin. Interior absorbent lining is recommended. Rabies vaccination is required. Affix all mandated Live Animal stickers and labels.

• Transporting Dogs as Cargo

• Use an IATA-compliant rigid plastic kennel properly secured and labeled. Allow enough room for dog to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably. Include interior bedding, food and water bowls. Attach Live Animal placards indicating upright dog orientation for transport.

Cat Policies on New Zealand Airlines

• New Zealand airlines have separate guidelines for transporting cats as cabin pets or cargo:

• In-Cabin Cats

• Use a soft carrier that fits fully under the seat. Carrier should have leak-proof floor with litter pan and closures. Only domestic cats are allowed in cabin. Affix all required Live Animal stickers.

• Transporting Cats as Cargo

• Use an IATA-compliant rigid plastic kennel secured properly and labeled. Include litter pan, bedding, water/food bowls inside. Mark arrows indicating upright cat orientation. Do not tranquilize or heavily sedate cats before cargo travel.

• By understanding the pet policies of New Zealand's major airlines and making proper arrangements, pet owners can ensure smooth, compliant travel for their animals domestically or internationally.

Tips for Flying Pets Internationally from New Zealand

• Key tips for smooth international travel with pets from New Zealand include:

• Research entry requirements thoroughly for all countries on your itinerary well in advance.

• Obtain necessary import permits, health certificates and vaccinations for each destination early.

• Clearly mark kennels with Live Animal placards and labels for international flights.

• Have a backup carrier in case your pet exceeds in-cabin size limits.

• For long journeys, include ample interior carrier bedding, food, water.

• Take direct international flights where possible to minimize disruptions.

• Carry copies of all documents required during your journey.

• Consider hiring a professional pet relocation service for complicated moves.

• Request pre-boarding and priority kennel return where available.

• Attach collar ID tag with your contact details in case of errors.

• Verify adequate climate conditions for pets at all destinations.

• While flying internationally with pets from New Zealand involves more preparation, proper planning can ensure your pets travels comfortably and safely to destinations worldwide.

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