The Ultimate NZ Holiday Travel Guide For Pets
Planning a Kiwi getaway with your four-legged travel buddy? Whether you're road tripping through the South Island or heading to a beach bach in the Bay of Islands, travelling with pets can be an adventure of its own. At Petdirect, we get pet—so we’ve put together the ultimate New Zealand holiday travel guide for pets to help you plan a smooth, fun and safe journey for everyone involved (tails included!).
Plan Ahead With Your Pet’s Needs In Mind
Before you hit the road, it’s important to prepare for your pet’s comfort, health and safety. Start by booking pet-friendly accommodation and check transport policies for ferries, flights and campsites.
Make sure your pet’s flea and worm treatments are up to date—New Zealand is free of rabies, but not of pesky parasites. Browse our flea and worm treatments to keep your pet protected while exploring the great outdoors.
Travelling can be stressful for some pets. If your fur friend is a bit anxious, products from our calming essentials collection can make a world of difference.
Car Travel Essentials For Pets
If you’re travelling by car, safety comes first. Use pet restraints or travel harnesses to keep both pets and humans safe. For cats or small dogs, carriers and crates are your best bet for secure travel.
Don't forget to pack a travel water bottle or bowl to keep your pet hydrated between stops. Long hauls? A seat cover helps protect your car interior from muddy paws and fur tumbleweeds.
What To Pack In Your Pet’s Travel Bag
Just like you, your pet needs a holiday bag packed with essentials:
- Enough of their regular pet food to last the trip
- A familiar bed or blanket for comfort
- Treats for travel rewards and enrichment
- Portable water solutions, like collapsible bowls
- Summer essentials like sunscreen for dogs or cooling mats, especially if you’re headed somewhere warm
- Clean-up bags and litter items, particularly for longer travel periods
Flying With Pets In New Zealand
Air New Zealand and some regional operators allow pets to travel in the hold for domestic flights. You’ll need an airline-approved carrier and to book through a pet transport service or cargo. Always check with the carrier well in advance.
Before flying, help pets get used to their travel crate at home. Place treats, toys and bedding inside, so it's not just a transport device—it’s their personal den on the move. For added preparedness, explore pet travel products.
Staying Safe At Your Holiday Destination
Once you arrive, do a quick pet-safety check of the area. Secure fencing, no hidden toxins (watch for slug bait in gardens!), and a quiet zone your pet can retreat to are all helpful. Keep ID tags on at all times and consider using GPS tracking gear if you’ve got an adventurous explorer.
Bringing a pet along means lots of outdoor time. Be sun smart with seasonal gear, supervise water fun, and pop chewy toys from our toys collection in their bag to keep them happily occupied.
Make Pet Travel Rewarding
Travelling with your pet should be a joy, not a juggle. At Petdirect, we've made it even easier to stock up by offering Autodeliver options, Pet Perks loyalty rewards, and even Airpoints on eligible purchases. That’s more tail wags and fewer to-do’s for you!
Final Woof (And Meow)
Holidaying with your pet in New Zealand can be an unforgettable bonding experience when done right. With a little prep, some practical products, and lots of love, your pet could be the best travel companion you’ve ever had. Ready to plan your pet-friendly trip? Discover all your travel essentials at Petdirect and let the adventures begin!
We get pet—and we get how much they mean to you. Let us help you and your pet enjoy the ultimate Kiwi holiday together.