Air New Zealand: Requirements & Policies

Carrier Requirements & Policies: Air New Zealand

Acceptance

ESA (Emotional Support Animals): Accepted with Conditions
PSA (Psychiatric Support Animals): Accepted
Service Animals: Accepted

Quick Checklist (Bring to the Airport)

Required Documentation & Gear (must bring)

Physical ID Card (animal & handler identification).
Recognition Gear: Service Animal vest, bandana, or harness.
Air New Zealand Special Assistance Approval (required for Service Dogs & PSAs).
Veterinary Health Certificate depending on origin and destination requirements.
Microchip (ISO-compliant) for international travel.
Rabies Vaccination Certificate where applicable (New Zealand itself is rabies-free).
Pet-in-Cabin Requirements: ESA-style travel must follow paid pet rules including carrier size restrictions.

Preferred Documentation (greatly facilitates acceptance and pre-clearance)

Registration Certificate (our approved registry is accepted by all airlines).
Prescription Letter confirming PSA or Service Dog status.
Behavior Certificate confirming calm temperament and public-safe behavior.

Steps to Take (in Order)

Apply for Air New Zealand assistance-animal approval immediately after booking.
Ensure ESA-style travel meets paid pet carrier size and weight requirements.
Verify entry requirements for New Zealand, which are some of the strictest globally.
Bring printed & digital copies of all documents for airport staff.

Route Limitations (Assistance Animals)

Service Dogs and PSAs are accepted on all eligible Air New Zealand routes.
ESAs may only travel as pets in cabin for a fee.
New Zealand imposes strict animal-entry rules, including microchip, rabies-free status validation, and quarantine documentation.
Regional flights may have space restrictions.
Some destinations require additional health clearances.

Forms & Official Policy (Links)

Source: Air New Zealand assistance-animal policy and New Zealand MPI regulations.