New Zealand Bloodstock Airfreight, which has been successfully buying, selling and transporting thoroughbred horses by airfreight between Australia and New Zealand for more than 50 years, is about to significantly expand its air network. Beginning in November, NZB Airfreight will begin service between London Heathrow and Sydney.
“We are seeing more and more horses traveling from Europe to Australia, and this is an opportunity for us to meet the needs of our existing customers,” said NZB Airfreight manager Greg Northcott.
Once in Sydney, horses will be transferred to Melbourne, where there are quarantine facilities. Prior to leaving the U.K., horses will be quarantined in Sussex, close to Heathrow Airport. Flying out of Heathrow, NZB will be able to service the equestrian needs for all of Europe, the company said. The NZB team will able to organize the logistics of getting horses from Europe to the U.K. and then on safely to Australia.
NZB said it will be able to coordinate all health and vaccination requirements, arrange for customs clearance, and handle the goods and services taxes. Founded in 1927, NZB has been flying horses not only to and from Australia, but to Hong Kong and Singapore as well.