Varies by aircraft and route
Airline dog policy
Air New Zealand
Air New Zealand does not permit pets in the passenger cabin on any flight. All pets must travel as cargo in the pressurised, climate-controlled hold. This applies to both domestic New Zealand flights and international services. The airline transports dogs, cats, and some other animals through its cargo division, with careful attention to New Zealand's strict biosecurity requirements. For dog owners relocating to or from New Zealand, understanding the country's mandatory quarantine and import procedures is essential.
Book early and confirm aircraft acceptance.
Under-seat dimensions can vary by aircraft.
Fees can change by region and currency.
Booking tip
New Zealand has some of the strictest animal import regulations in the world. Dogs entering New Zealand must meet MPI (Ministry for Primary Industries) requirements including microchip, rabies vaccination (or certification of rabies-free origin), blood titre test, parasite treatments, and an import permit. The process takes a minimum of 6 months from start to clearance. Air New Zealand Cargo is experienced in handling live animals and works with approved pet transport agents.
Why it can work
Despite the cabin restriction, Air New Zealand's cargo service is well-regarded for animal welfare. The airline uses modern Boeing 777 and 787 aircraft on international routes, both featuring excellent pressurised and temperature-controlled cargo holds. Air New Zealand dominates the domestic New Zealand market, making it the default choice for internal pet transport. The airline's partnership with approved pet relocation companies streamlines the complex import process.
Restrictions
No cabin pets on any flight, domestic or international. All animals travel as cargo only. New Zealand's biosecurity laws require extensive pre-arrival testing, treatments, and documentation — failure to comply results in the animal being refused entry or quarantined at the owner's expense. Brachycephalic breeds face additional restrictions due to respiratory risks in the hold.
Dog-owner notes
Air New Zealand's main hub is Auckland (AKL), with additional operations from Wellington (WLG) and Christchurch (CHC). International routes serve Australia, Pacific Islands, North America, and Asia. Air New Zealand Cargo: +64 9 336 2626 or cargo@airnz.co.nz. For pet-specific enquiries, contact an MPI-approved pet transport agent who can coordinate with the airline.
Final check before paying
Confirm the exact aircraft, route, dog breed, carrier size, temperature rules and destination import law directly with the airline. A country can allow dogs while a specific airline or aircraft refuses them.