The State of Pet-Friendly Public Transportation in New Zealand

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Public transportation in New Zealand is widely accessible and affordable, making it a popular choice for Kiwis to get around. However, if you own a pet, then you may find yourself wondering if you can bring them along for the ride.

Pet Policies on New Zealand Public Transportation

In New Zealand, pet policies on public transportation can vary greatly, depending on the provider. Some operators are more relaxed, while others are stricter in their regulations.

Air New Zealand allows customers to travel with their pets, provided they meet strict requirements. Animals must be securely contained in an approved pet carrier, and should not exceed 13 kg or 1.2m in length. Pets are charged at the same rate as an adult fare.

InterCity allows passengers to travel with a small pet on board, provided it is suitably enclosed in a pet carrier. Larger animals are not allowed.

Auckland Transport allows passengers to bring a pet with them, but they must remain in a secure pet carrier while on board. Animals must also be muzzled and leashed at all times.

Pet-Friendly Services in New Zealand

Not all public transport services are pet-friendly. Fortunately, there are a few dedicated pet transport services in New Zealand that provide a safe, reliable and comfortable journey for your pet:

  • Pet Taxi NZ – a professional taxi service for pets that offers door-to-door transport.
  • Passenger Pets – a nationwide ride-share service that allows owners to search for other pet owners travelling in the same direction.

These services provide a stress-free journey for both you and your pet, as well as the ability to customize your service to fit your needs.

Pet-Friendly Accommodation

When travelling with a pet, it’s important to consider your accommodation options. Many hotels, motels and other accommodation providers allow pets to stay with their owners. However, others may have restrictions or require additional fees.

Before booking your accommodation, it’s worth checking the provider’s policy on pets. To make it even easier to find pet-friendly accommodation, there are a few websites that specialize in providing listings specifically for pet owners:

  • Pet Friendly NZ – a website that lists pet-friendly accommodation from around the country.
  • Stayz – an online booking platform that offers listings for pet-friendly accommodation.

These websites provide a range of accommodation options for pet owners, from luxury hotels to resorts, villas and cottages.

Overall, pet-friendly travel in New Zealand is becoming more accessible, with more options available for people travelling with their pets. With the right resources and preparation, you can take your pet with you on your next adventure and make it a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.