Boat & Yacht Shipping from New Zealand – Safe, Simple and Affordable

Shipping your boat or yacht internationally is easier than you think—when you’ve got the right partner. At Citymove.co.nz, we specialise in transporting boats of all sizes across the Tasman and beyond. Whether you're moving a trailer boat from Auckland to Brisbane or planning to import a yacht into New Zealand, we manage every detail to make the journey smooth, secure, and stress-free.

Our team understands the complexities of boat and yacht logistics. From customs paperwork and quarantine clearance to port arrangements and transport cradles, we take care of it all. With years of experience in international relocations, Citymove has earned the trust of boat owners across New Zealand and Australia.

Why Choose Citymove for Boat Shipping?

Importing a boat into New Zealand or exporting one to Australia can be surprisingly cost-effective. Many customers choose to ship their existing vessel rather than sell and repurchase, saving money and keeping a boat they know and love. Boats in Australia can often be more affordable than those in New Zealand, and importing can open up a wider range of options. If you’ve owned the boat for more than 12 months, you may even be eligible for tax-free import into New Zealand.
We help you with everything—organising trailer WOFs, arranging compliance checks, booking port lifts, and securing safe, efficient transport by sea or container. Our team will also guide you through removing or adjusting parts like flybridges or masts to reduce size and cost, and we can provide or custom-build transport cradles if needed.

How Long Does It Take to Ship a Boat?

Transit times between Australia and New Zealand typically range from 7 to 30 days, depending on the vessel’s size, the shipping method, and the ports involved. We offer both Roll-on Roll-off (RoRo) and containerised options, and we’ll recommend the most suitable based on your vessel’s dimensions and your budget.

Haven’t Bought the Boat Yet? We Can Still Help.

If you're planning to buy a boat overseas and want to understand the costs and logistics before committing, we’re happy to provide advice. Some ports are cheaper to ship from than others, and the shape or structure of the boat can affect the price. Give us a call, and we’ll help you budget smarter and avoid costly mistakes.

What We Handle for You

At Citymove.co.nz, we manage the full process of boat and yacht shipping, including:

• Customs and quarantine formalities
• Port fees and documentation
• Transport cradles or trailer handling
• Lifts in and out of the water
• Compliance support and road transport if needed
• Real-time updates and responsive service

FAQs – Common Questions About Boat Shipping

Q: Can I use my trailer to ship the boat?

A: Yes, if your boat is already on a roadworthy trailer with a WOF, we can usually ship it as-is. Otherwise, we’ll help arrange a cradle.

Q: What should I remove before shipping?

A: We recommend removing electronics like GPS systems or fish finders to prevent theft. Items inside the cabin should also be secured or removed.

Q: Do I need marine insurance?

A: We strongly recommend marine insurance. While rare, damage in transit is always a risk on the open sea.

Q: How clean should my boat be before shipping?

A: Your vessel must be thoroughly cleaned to meet New Zealand and Australian quarantine standards. This includes the hull, anchor chain, and internal compartments.

Q: Do you ship Jet Skis and smaller watercraft?

A: Yes! We ship all types of vessels, including Jet Skis, dinghies, and trailer yachts.

Let’s Get Your Boat Moving
Whether you're upgrading, relocating, or just want to enjoy your own boat across the Tasman, Citymove makes boat and yacht shipping simple and reliable. Our experienced logistics team is just a phone call away. Let us handle the details so you can focus on the water ahead.
Call Citymove.co.nz today at 0800 126 128 for a free, no-obligation quote on your boat shipping needs. We’re here to help you every step of the way.