Pet Transport Vietnam to New Zealand: 2026 MPI Guide

New Zealand’s MPI requires an RNATT (rabies neutralising antibody titre test) for all pets arriving from countries outside Australia. The blood draw must happen at an MPI-approved laboratory, at least 28 days after a valid rabies vaccination. The result must show 0.5 IU/ml or above. Critically, your pet cannot enter New Zealand until at least 3 months have passed from the date the blood was drawn.

In practice this means: book your vet appointment for the vaccination, wait 28 days, do the blood draw, and then count 3 months before your earliest possible New Zealand arrival. The titre test result stays valid for up to 24 months, so if your plans shift, you’re not starting from scratch.

The Vietnamese vet who does the blood draw should send the sample to an MPI-approved laboratory. KSVDL (Kansas State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory) and the UK APHA National Reference Laboratory are both MPI-approved and commonly used. Your vet can advise on which labs have the shortest turnaround.

There are no direct flights from Vietnam to New Zealand. The two most practical routings are via Singapore and via Sydney. Singapore Airlines operates regular SGN to SIN cargo services with onward connections from Changi to Auckland and Christchurch. Changi has well-established live animal handling infrastructure, and Singapore Airlines Cargo has a straightforward process for this type of two-sector movement.

Alternatively, Vietnam Airlines operates SGN to Sydney with cargo, connecting to Air New Zealand SYD-AKL. The SYD connection adds a domestic-style sector in the Air New Zealand network. Both routings work; the choice comes down to scheduling and cargo availability at the time of booking.

Confirm live animal acceptance on your specific flights 4 to 6 weeks before travel. Cargo space for pets is limited on some aircraft, and advance confirmation matters.

New Zealand’s MPI import permit is a key document. Apply online through mpi.govt.nz at least 30 working days before your intended travel date. The permit specifies all the conditions your pet must meet and authorises the Levin quarantine place. Do not book flights without the permit in hand.

The Levin Quarantine Facility in Levin, Manawatu, is where your pet spends 10 days on arrival. It is the primary approved quarantine facility for cats and dogs entering New Zealand. The facility has veterinary oversight throughout, and owners can arrange visits. Costs are owner-paid.

MPI’s updated Import Health Standard for cats and dogs takes effect 1 July 2026, with a transition period to 1 April 2027. During transition, both the 2021 and 2026 IHS versions are acceptable. Confirm which version applies to your health certificate issuance date with your vet.