Step 1 — Create Your Pet's Profile
Add name, age, personality, and photos. Pick free or an upgrade if you need more reach. Our Featured and Premium listing options increase visibility across New Zealand and help you rehome faster.
How to safely rehome a pet in New Zealand
How Pet Rescue NZ Works
Rehome pets safely, simply, and stress-free across New Zealand. Our step-by-step process keeps you in control from first message to happy new home.
Pet Rescue NZ is a home-to-home pet rehoming platform, not a pound or shelter — owners list their own pets and connect directly with New Zealand adopters.
NZ-wide reach
You stay in control
Free option + affordable upgrades
Why Choose Pet Rescue NZ?
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NZ-Wide Reach
Thousands of New Zealand families search daily for dogs, cats, and other pets to adopt on our platform.
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You Stay in Control
Choose who to message, meet, and ultimately adopt. You decide where your pet lives next for peace of mind.
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Free & Affordable
Start free. Boost visibility with low-cost Featured and Premium options to rehome your pet faster across NZ.
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Kinder for Animals
Pets move directly from one loving home to another, avoiding the stress of sitting in a kennel environment.
For Pet Owners — How to Rehome Your Pet in NZ
Simple, safe, and in your control from first message to happy new home. You can rehome a dog in NZ, rehoming a cat, or list other pets that need a new family.
Step 2 — Connect With Families
Your listing goes live NZ-wide. Reply to enquiries and shortlist good fits. You're always in control of who you talk to.
Step 3 — Meet & Greet
Arrange safe meetings. Ask questions and check compatibility before deciding. We'll guide you on avoiding common pet adoption scams in New Zealand.
Step 4 — Happy New Home
Choose the best match and finalise adoption directly with the new family. We give you a simple handover template so everyone agrees on care, vet history, and next steps. Private rehoming is legal in New Zealand as long as the new owner agrees to take responsibility for ongoing care.
Private rehoming is legal in New Zealand as long as the transfer is honest and the new owner agrees to take responsibility for the animal's ongoing care. We help you document the handover and protect both you and your pet.
For Adopters — How to Adopt a Pet in NZ
Find your match, message owners, and meet before you commit. Browse dogs, cats, and other pets available for adoption in New Zealand, and talk directly with current owners about behaviour and needs.
Step 1 — Browse & Filter
Search pets NZ-wide. Use filters for species, age, size, and location to find the right fit for your home.
Step 2 — Apply / Message Owner
Ask questions and share your home setup. Owners choose who to meet, especially for dogs with specific needs or cats who prefer quiet homes.
Step 3 — Meet & Greet
Visit the pet with the owner. Make sure the match feels right for everyone, including any kids or existing pets.
Step 4 — Adopt & Settle In
Agree next steps with the owner and welcome your new family member home. You receive vet details and routines to make settling easier.
Our Impact in New Zealand
250+
Pets Rehomed in New Zealand
30k+
Monthly New Zealand Page Views
500+
Active Listings Across NZ
Questions about rehoming your dog, cat, or other pet in New Zealand? Our small NZ-based team can help guide you through safe handover and scam avoidance. Contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
How safe is the process?⌄
You decide who adopts your pet. Message, ask questions, and arrange safe meet-ups before making any decision. We also provide scam protection tips for New Zealand pet listings so you can spot red flags early.
How long will my listing stay up?⌄
Free listings run for 30 days. Featured and Premium packages extend visibility and priority placement to help you rehome faster across New Zealand.
What does it cost?⌄
Listing is free. Optional upgrades are available for a small fee to boost views and enquiries NZ-wide. We don't charge adoption commission.
Can I edit my listing later?⌄
Yes — you can update details, photos, or contact information at any time from your account.
Do you check adopters?⌄
Pet Rescue NZ is a platform. We don't vet adopters, but we provide guidance to help you screen and choose the right home, including warning signs of pet scams in New Zealand.
What types of pets can I list?⌄
Dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, and other companion pets are all welcome on the platform. You can list senior pets, bonded pairs, or animals with special needs — just be honest in the description so they find the right match.
How do I adopt instead of rehome?⌄
Browse live listings and contact owners directly to arrange a meet & greet. Start here: pets available for adoption across New Zealand.
Ready to Rehome Your Pet or Find a New One?
Pet Rescue NZ makes rehoming simple, safe, and stress-free. Choose the option that's right for you.
