Recognised Agencies, Authorised and Recognised Persons

There are currently two recognised agencies who certify New Zealand's animal health status and the health of any live animals or germplasm (semen and embryos) being exported from New Zealand.

1. Ministry for Primary Industries Verification Services (VS) - VS Official Veterinarians (deemed as Authorised and/or Recognised Persons under the Animal Products Act 1999) are located near the main airports or ports. As Authorised Persons they issue official assurances (in the form of MPI export certificates). As Recognised Persons, they may also issue eligibility documents for all animal species (excluding bees) and germplasm.

   For exporting dogs and cats from New Zealand to overseas countries (except Australia) via international flights, please contact the VS Official Veterinarians located at the three major international airports only (Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington) for signing the export certificate and the AWEC (Animal Welfare Export Certificate).

2. AsureQuality Limited (AQ) - AsureQuality Official Veterinarians (deemed as Recognised Persons under the Animal Products Act 1999) can perform a number of functions supporting eligibility for export but cannot sign official assurances (in the form of MPI export certificates). These functions are stated below.
   • issuing eligibility documents for all animal species and germplasm
   • such other verification functions and activities in relation to Export Requirements for live animals and germplasm, as may be required for the purposes of the Animal Products Act 1999
   • Verification of export requirements for live animals and germplasm

List of VS Official Veterinarians:

Note: Prior arrangement must be made with VS Official Veterinarians for after-hour services

List of AQ Official Veterinarians

AsureQuality Recognised Persons List (46 KB)

Page last updated: 3 September 2012