Guidance Document  
 
A guidance document issued by the Ministry for Primary Industries  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Semen and Embryos from 
Equids  
EQUIGERM.SPE  
      
 Guidance Document : Semen and Embryos from Equids  
 Draft for Consultation  [Document Date]  
Ministry for Primary Industries  Page  1 of 20 
Title 
Guidance Document : Semen and Embryos  from Equids  
About this document  
This guidance document contains information about acceptable ways of ensuring compliance with the 
requirements in t he Import Health Standard ( IHS): Semen and Embryos from Equids . 
Any guidance on how to comply with the applicable requirements may not be the only way to achieve 
compliance. Stakeholders are encouraged to discuss departures from the appr oaches outlined in this 
guidance document with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) to avoid expending resources on the 
development of alternative approaches which may later be considered unsuitable.  
The term “must” is not typically used in guidance. In this particular document if the term “must” is used, it is 
used in the context of quoting or paraphrasing the requirements set out in the related IHS: Semen and 
Embryos from Equids . 
Related Requirements  
Import Health Standard: Semen and Embryos from Equids  
Document  history  
Refer to Appendix 1.  
Contact Details  
For further information and questions about this guidance document, please contact:  
 
Ministry for Primary Industries  
Regulation & Assurance  
Animal Imports  
PO Box 2526  
Wellington 6140  
Email: animal.imports@mpi.govt.nz  
Disclaimer  
This guidance does not constitute, and should not be regarded as, legal advice . While every effort has been 
made to ensure the information in this guida nce is accurate, the Ministry for Primary Industries does not accept 
any responsibility or liability whatsoever for any error of fact, omission, interpretation or opinion that may be 
present, however it may have occurred.  
Copyright  
Crown copyright ©. This copyright work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 New Zealand 
licence. In essence, you are free to copy, distribute and adapt the work, as long as you attribute the work to the Ministry f or Primary 
Industries and  abide by the other licence terms. To view a copy of this licence, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/nz/ . 
Please note that no governmental emblem, logo or Coat of Arms may be use d in any way which infringes any provision of the Flags, 
Emblems, and Names Protection Act 1981 or would infringe such provision if the relevant use occurred within New Zealand. 
Attribution to the Ministry for Primary Industries should be in written form a nd not by reproduction of any such emblem, logo or Coat of 
Arms.  
Guidance Document : Semen and Embryos from Equids  
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Ministry for Primary Industries  Page  2 of 20 
Contents  Page 
1 Purpose  3 
2 Background  3 
3 Definitions  3 
4 Importer Respo nsibilities  3 
5 Guidance  3 
5.1 Genetically modified (GM) organisms  3 
5.2 Equivalence  4 
5.3 Harmonised system (HS) codes  4 
5.4 Exporting country systems and certification  4 
5.5 Diagnostic tests, vaccines and treatment  5 
5.6 Semen collection conditions applicable to equids  6 
5.7 Inspection and verification  6 
6 Specified Requirements for Identified Risk Organisms  7 
6.1 Model veterinary certificate for equine semen  7 
6.2 Model veterinary certificate for equine embryos  14 
Appendix 1 – Document History  20 
 
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1 Purpose  
(1) This guidance document has been issued to accompany the IHS: Semen and Embryos from Equids . 
This guidance document should be read in conjunction with that IHS.  
(2) This document includes:  
a) Countries with MPI -approved exporting systems to export equine semen and embryos  to New 
Zealand.  
b) Model veterinary certificate s for semen and embryos . 
c) Links to n egotiated country specific veterinary certificates.  
2 Background  
(1) The IHS: Semen and Embryos from Equids , which this guidance document accompanies, contains 
generic import requirements. These are the rules to manage the biosecurity risk of importing  equine 
semen and embryos  from the countries specified in the IHS  (Australia, Canada, EU member countries, 
Norway, Switzerland, and the USA)  and in doing so meet New Ze aland’s appropriate level of 
protection. T his guidance document contains  model veterinary certificate s for trade in  equine semen 
and embryos . This veterinary certificate represents what will be certified prior to exporting 
consignments of  equine semen and embryos  from the country specified.  
(2) General information about importing semen and embryos  can be found here:  
http://mpi.govt.nz/importing/live -animals/semen -and-embryos/ .  
3 Definitions  
(1) Refer to Schedule 2 of the IHS: Semen and Embryos from Equids . 
4 Importer Responsibilities  
(1) The costs to MPI in performing functions relating to the importation of  equine semen and embryos  will 
be recovered in accordance with the Biosecurity Act 1993 (the Act) and any regulations made under 
that Act. All costs involved with documentation, transport, storage and obtaining a biosecurity 
clearance must be covered by the importer or agent.  
(2) Cons ignments that do not comply with the requirements of the IHS may be re -shipped or destroyed 
using an MPI -approved destruction method .  
5 Guidance  
5.1 Genetically modified (GM)  organisms  
(1) Under  the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) Act 1996, a GM organism is 
considered a new organism.  
(2) GM organisms are organisms whose genes or other genetic material have been modified by in vitro  
techniques.  
(3) Organisms that result solely from artificial insemination, superovulation, embry o transfer, or embryo 
splitting are NOT considered to be GM organisms.   
(4) For more information please visit: https://www.epa.govt.nz/industry -areas/new -organisms/rules -for-
new-organisms/ .  Guidance Document : Semen and Embryos from Equids  
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5.2 Equivalence  
(1) MPI may accept an alternative method, system or process that can be shown to achieve the 
biosecurity requirements of the IHS (i.e. equivalence).  
(2) MPI’s preference is that the exporting country’s Competent Authority makes equivalence requests. 
Equivalence requests can be lodged with animal.imports@mpi.govt.nz . 
(3) An import permit is not required to import  equine semen and embryos  into New Zealand if the 
requirements of the IHS are met.  
(4) An import  permit may be required where specific equivalence measures are approved by MPI. A n 
import permit serves as evidence of equivalence decisions and will be written as specific notes in the 
special conditions section of the permit.  
(5) Import permit application f orms can be found on the MPI website at  Application form for Semen and 
Embryos . 
(6) Completed applications are lodged with animal.imports@mpi.govt.nz . 
5.3 Harmonised system (HS) codes  
(1) The harmonised system is an international product numbering classification developed by the World 
Customs Organisation (WCO). The New Zealand harmonised system is found here: 
http://www.stats.govt.nz/methods/classifications -and-standards/classification -related -stats -
standards/harmonised -system -2012.aspx  
(2) Animal products imported using the IHS will be under one of the following HS Codes:  
 
HS Code  Commodity Description  
0511990008  Animal products; semen, other than bovine, other than sheep semen  
0511990045  Animal products; n.e.c. in chapter 5, embryos  
5.4 Exporting country systems and certification  
5.4.1 Approval for exporting systems  
(1) The IHS applies to equine semen and embryos  from specified countries. These countries are listed in 
the IHS. The IHS is based upon an import risk analysis (2009 IRA) written for specified countries which 
include Australia, Canada, the USA and the EU. Based on equivalent disease freedom status, 
Switzerland and Norway are included in the IHS.  
(2) Competent Authorities of other countries must approach MPI for approval of their exporting systems to 
allow for imports of  equine  semen and embryos into New Zealand. Approval will also require an import 
risk anal ysis to be undertaken  for these countries.  
5.4.2 Agreed country specific veterinary certificates  
(1) Requests from exporting countries to negotiate veterinary certification for the import of  equine semen 
and embryos  into New Zealand will be prioritised according to MPI resources available at the time of 
application.  
(2) A model veterinary certificate is provided in this guidance document and can be used by the 
Competent Authority as a reference for country -specific veter inary certificate negotiation.  
(3) All country -specific veterinary certificates agreed between an exporting country’s Competent Authority 
and MPI are included in the table below:  Guidance Document : Semen and Embryos from Equids  
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For semen:  
Country  Link to certificate  S27 CTO 
direction #  Date agreed  Date appl icable for use  
     
     
For embryos:  
Country  Link to certificate  S27 CTO 
direction #  Date agreed  Date applicable for use  
     
     
(4) Country -specific veterinary certificates with equivalent measures will be recorded with a number 
relevant to a Chief Technical Officer (CTO) direction under section 27(1)d(iii) of the Act, to enable 
border staff to clear the goods and record the number in the MPI database.  
(5) When a newly negotiated country -specific veterinary certificate replaces one which is currently in use, 
the application of new import conditions will apply according to the dates listed in the table. At that time 
previous veterinary certificates for that country can no longer be used.  
(6) When a country -specific veterinary certificate is agreed, there will be a four -month transition period to 
allow consignments of equine semen and embryos  to be prepared in accordance with the new 
condit ions. During transition, both the old and the new import conditions are acceptable. After 
transition, the previous veterinary certificate for that country can no longer be used.  
5.5 Diagnostic tests , vaccines and treatment  
(1) MPI lists all approved diagnostic tes ts and vaccines in the MPI document: Approved Diagnostic Tests, 
Vaccines, Treat ments and Post -Arrival Testing Laboratories for Animal Import Health Standards , 
MPI-STD-TVTL . 
(2) Where OIE recommended diagnostic tests and vaccines are listed, details can be found in the OIE 
Manual of Diagnostic Tests and Vaccines  found on the OIE website: http://www.oie.int/en/international -
standard -setting/terrestrial -manual/access -online/  
(3) The OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code  chapter listing the pres cribed and alternative diagnostic tests 
for OIE listed diseases is found on the OIE website: 
http://www.oie.int/index.php?id=169&L=0&htmfile=chapitre_1.1.3.htm  
(4) Disease testing for semen is valid  for semen collected  from the date of entry to the semen collection 
centre until a maximum of 180 days from the date the sample was collected for a single test, or the 
date of the final test in that series (e.g. CEM) provi ded: 
a) The donor  remains continuously resident at the semen collection centre ; 
b) The semen collection  centre remains under the supervision of the Competent Authority ; 
c) All equids  at the semen collection centre remain free from evidence of infectious disease 
transmissible in equine germplasm;   
d) While resident at the semen collection centre, donors  have  only ha d contact with equids  of 
equivalent tested health status ; 
e) The donor s have  not been mated by natural service after entering the semen collection centre 
and during the collection period;  
f) If any of the above provisions cease to apply or if more than 180 days have passed since the 
sample collection date, the donor s and all in contact equids  at the semen collection centre must 
be re -tested in accordance the requirements of the IHS . Guidance Document : Semen and Embryos from Equids  
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5.6 Inspection and verification  
(1) On arrival, all documentation accompanying the consignment will be verified by an inspector. The 
inspector may also inspect the consignment, or a sample of the consignment on arrival.  
(2) Inspectors are able  to inspect and verify due to their authorised powers under the Act.  
(3) These requirements are independent of the IHS requirements.   Guidance Document : Semen and Embryos from Equids  
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6 Specified Requirements for Identified Risk Organisms  
6.1 Model veterinary certificate  for equine semen  
(1) Below is a model veterinary  certificate for trade in  equine semen . This model meets the requirements 
of the IHS.   
 
Part 1: Details of dispatched consignment  1.1.  Consignor (Exporter):  
Name:  
Address:  1.2.  Certificate reference number:  
 
1.3.  Competent Authority:  
 
1.4.  Consignee (Importer):  
Name:  
Address:  
 
1.5.  Country of origin:  
ISO Code* * 1.6.  Zone or compartment of origin:  
 
1.7.  Country of destination :  
ISO Code* * 1.8.  Zone or compartment of destination:  
1.9.  Place of origin:  
Name:  
Address:  
1.10.  Place of shipment:  1.11.  Date of departure:  
1.12.  Means of transport:  
 
    Aeroplane           Ship  
 
Identification:  
 1.13.  Expected border post:  
1.14.  CITES permit No(s):  
1.15.  Description of commodity:  
 1.16.  Commodity Code (ISO Code **): 
1.17.  Total number of:  
1.18.  Temperature of commodities for transport:  
  Chilled        Frozen    1.19.  Total number of packages:  
1.20.  Identification of container/serial number:  
 1.21.  Type of packaging:  
1.22.  Identification of commodity:  Species (scientific name) *** 
Donor name   
Donor identification   
Date of entry into semen collection  centre  dd/mm/yyyy  
Semen collection period  or season  dd/mm/yyyy  to  dd/mm/yyyy  
Date(s) of semen  collection  dd/mm/yyyy  
Straw/container identification   
Number of straws/containers   
   ** Optional          ***Table does not need to be completed if summary table is used instead  
 
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Part 2:  Veterinary Information  Country:  Certificate reference number:  
 
I, the undersigned Official Veterinarian, certify that the product  described above satisfy the following requirements:   
 
Eligibility  
(1) The semen is from horses ( Equus caballus ) and /or donkeys ( Equus asinus ). 
(2) The semen is  (delete as applicable) :  
(a) fresh -chilled ; or  
(b) frozen  
(3) The semen is not genetically modified . 
Diagnostic testing, vaccination, and treatment  
(4) Diagnostic testing was conducted at a laboratory approved  to conduct export testing  by the Competent Authority  
of a country approved to export s emen to New Zealand  (Australia, Canada, European Union Member States, 
Norway, Switzerland, or the United States) .  
(5) Laboratory samples were collected, processed, and stored as recommended in the OIE Terrestrial Animal 
Health Code and/or Manual of Diagnostic  Tests and Vaccines for Terrestrial Animals , or as described in 
MPI-STD-TVTL .  
(6)  Diagnostic test(s) and vaccines were those that have been approved by MPI and documented  in 
MPI-STD-TVTL . 
(7) Any products and vaccine(s) administered to satisfy import requirements were administered according to the 
recommendations of the manufacturer  in an approved country (Australia, Canada, European Union Member 
States, Norway, Switzerland, or the United States) . 
(8) Any vaccine(s) administered to satisfy import requireme nts were either the final dose of a primary vaccination 
course or the recommended booster to complement the primary course.  
(9) Vaccine names, the virus types and strains included in the vaccine ( where applicable), and date(s) of 
vaccination  are recorded on t his veterinary certificate.  
(10) Original reports, or copies of reports endorsed by the Official Veterinarian, or a tabulated summary  
accompanied by copies of reports  endorsed by the Official Veterinarian of all tests and vaccinations are 
attached to this veter inary certificate.  
Semen collection centre requirements  
(11) The semen collection centre meets the  relevant articles of the  current recommendations  of the OIE Terrestrial 
Animal Health Code  chapter General Hygiene in Semen Collection and Processing C entres.  
Name of semen collection centre:  
Address of semen collection centre:  
 
Date of  most recent semen collection centre approval  (dd/mm/yyyy ): 
Date of semen collection centre approval for semen collected and stored from previous collection periods 
(dd/mm/yyyy ) (delete if not applicable) : 
Approval number of semen collection centre:  
Name of approved veterinarian:  
 
Donor requirements  
(12) While resident at the semen collection centre, donors only had contact with other equids of equivalent health 
status.    
(13) On the da y of collection, the approved  veterinarian ensured by clinical examination including  the external 
reproductive organs , that donor s were  free from clinical evidence of infectious diseases transmissible in semen . Guidance Document : Semen and Embryos from Equids  
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(14) Donors have not been naturally mated since entry  into the semen col lection centre, unless required for disease 
testing . 
(15) The donors were transferred from one approved semen collection centre to another of equivalent  health status 
without isolation or testing and the following occurred  (delete entire clause if not applicable ):   
(a) Donors were examined, by the approved semen collection centre  veterinarian, and showed no clinical 
sign of disease  transmissible in semen  on the day of entry into  the facility; and  
(b) Transfer was direct; and  
(c) Donors were not in direct  or indirect contact with a nimals of a lower health status; and  
(d) The means of transport used was disinfected before use.  
(16) The donor has been approved for the < enter years of breeding season> breeding season on < enter date of 
approval>   (applicable to Austral ia only; delete if not applicable)   
 
Teaser animal requirements  (delete if not applicable)  
(17) Teaser animals used for  the colle ction of the semen were of equivalent  health status  to the donor.  
(18) On the da y of collection, the approved  veterinarian ensured by cl inical examination including  the external 
reproductive organs , that teaser animal s were  free from clinical evidence of infectious diseases transmissible in 
semen . 
Collection, processing, and storage requirements  
(19) Semen  collection , process ing, and storage meets the  general considerations for hygienic collection and 
handling of semen specified in the  current recommendations  of the OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code  chapter  
Collection and Processing of Bovine, Small Ruminant and Porcine Semen.  
(20) Antibiotics wer e added to the semen diluent/extender in generally accepted levels.  
(21) The cryogenic or cooling agent used in the freezing process, storage,  or transport has not  been used previously 
in association with any other product of animal origin.  
(22) Semen is in straws, or new or disinfected containers which are sealed and tamper -evident, and clearly and 
permanently marked to identify the dono r and the date(s) of collection.  
(23) Semen was only stored with germplasm  that was collected and processed in accordance with the OIE 
Terrestrial Animal Health Code  chapter  Collection and Processing of Bovine, Small Ruminant and Porcine 
Semen , and/or c hapter  Collection and Processing of In Vivo Derived Embryos from Livestock and Equids,    
and/or the IETS Manual , and is of equivalent heal th status.  
(24) Semen was  held in a storage place approved by the Competent Authority until the time of export . 
(25) The semen in this consignment originates from <approved origin country> , has been stored in <exporting 
country> , and is accompanied by  (delete entir e clause if country of origin and export are the same) : 
(a) A declaration from the Competent Authority of < exporting country>  that links the semen from < origin 
country > to the semen being exported  to New Zealand ; and  
(b) This veterinary certificate certifying that the semen has been stored and transported in <exporting 
country > in accordance with the requirements of the Import Health Standard for Semen and Embryos 
from Equids ; and  
(c) Evidence that the semen  was collected, pro cessed, and stored in < origin country>  in accordance with the 
requirements of the Import Health Standard for Semen and Embryos from Equids  in the form of either:  
(i) A veterinary certificate issued by the Competent Authority of < origin country> certifying that the 
semen meets the requirements of the Import Health Standard for Semen and Embryos from 
Equids ; or 
(ii) A letter from the Competent Authority of <origin country > confirming the semen meets the 
requirements of the Import Health Standard for Semen and Embryos  from Equids . 
  
Transport requirements  
(26) Semen was placed in a transport container that is  (delete as applicable) : 
(a) New; or  Guidance Document : Semen and Embryos from Equids  
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(b) Cleaned and d isinfected                                       
(27) The transport container was sealed by either the  approved  veterinarian or an Official Veterinarian , using tamper -
evident seals.   
Seal number:  
(28) The semen was transferred from one transport container to another (delete  entire clause if not applicable).  
Date of transfer  (dd/mm/yyyy ): 
Reason for transfer : 
Facility  moved from:  
Facility moved to:  
Veterinarian who performed transfer (name and signature):  
SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS FOR IDENTIFIED RISK ORGANISMS:  
For equine arteritis virus  (EVA) :  
(29) Donors  were kept for the 28 days prior to semen collection on premises where no equid has shown any clinical 
sign of EVA during that period  and showed no clinical sign of EVA on the day of semen collection; and  
(a) Were subjected to a test for EVA carried out on a s ingle blood sample collected not less than 21 days 
after entry into the semen collection centre , with negative results ; or 
(b) Were subjected between six and nine months of age to a test for EVA;  
(i) With a negative result and were immediately vaccinated against EVA and regularly revaccinated 
in accordance with the recommendations of the manufacturer; or  
(ii) With a positive result, followed at least 14 days later by a second test showing a stable or 
decreasing  antibody  titre; and were immediately vaccinated against EV A and regularly 
revaccinated in accordance with the recommendations of the manufacturer; or  
(c) Were isolated  and not earlier than 7 days of commencing isolation were subjected to a test for EVA on a 
blood sample with a negative result, immediately vaccinated for EVA, kept for 21 days following 
vaccination separated from other equids and regularly revaccinated in  accordance with the 
recommendations of the manufacturer; or  
(d) Were subjected to a tes t for EVA on a blood sample with a negative result within 14 days prior to semen 
collection, and had been separated  from other equids not of an equivalent EVA status for 14  days prior to 
blood sampling until the end of semen collection; or  
(e) Have been subjected  to a test for EVA carried out on a blood sample with a positive result and then: 
either  
(i) Were subsequently  test mated to two mares within six months prior to semen colle ction, which 
were subjected to two tests for EVA with negative results on blood samples collected at the time 
of test mating and again 28 days after the test mating; or  
(ii) Were subjected  to a test for EVA with a negative result, carried out on semen collected within six 
months prior to collection of the semen to be exported; or  
(iii) Were subjected to a test for EVA with a negative result, carried out on semen collected within six 
months after the blood sample was collected, then immediately vaccinated, and regularly 
revaccinated; or  
(f) For frozen semen, were subjected with negative results either:  
(i) To a test for EVA carried out on a blood sample taken not earlier than 14 days and not later than 
12 months after the collection of the semen for export; or  
(ii) To a test for EVA carried out on an aliquot of the semen collected immediately prior to processing 
or on an aliquot of semen collected within 14 to 30 days after the first collection of the semen to 
be exported; or  
(Option (29)(g) applies only to frozen semen. Frozen semen may use options (29)(a)-(g), fresh chilled semen may use 
options  (29)(a)-(f))  
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For equine herpesvirus -1 abortigenic and paralytic forms (EHV -1): 
(30) Donors : 
(a) Were kept  on premises where no case of EHV -1 (abortigenic and paralytic forms) has been reported in 
the 21 days prior to  each collection ; and  
(b) Showed no clinical signs of EHV -1 infection on the day of collection and during the 21 days prior to 
collection.  
For equine infectious anaemia (EIA):  
(31) Donors : 
(a) Were kept on premises where no case of EIA has been reported during the 90 days prior to each 
collection; and  
(b) Showed no clinical sign of EIA on the day of each collection; and  
(c) Were subjected to a test for EIA not le ss than 21 days after entry into the collection centre, with a 
negative result . 
For Taylorella equigenitalis and Taylorella asinigenitalis (CEM):  
(32) Donors were kept, since birth or for at least the 60 days prior to collection, in a country recognised by MPI as 
free from CEM, where no case of CEM has been reported  in the 2 years prior to export ; or 
(33) Donors were kept, since birth or for at least 60 days pr ior to collection, o n premises where no case of CEM has 
been reported during that time ; and  
(a) Have had no dire ct or indirect contact with CEM during the 60 days  prior to collection; and  
(b) Showed no clinical signs of CEM on the day of each collection; and  
(c) Were subjected to a test for CEM not less than 7 days after entry into the semen collection centre, with 
negative  results;  
(i) Stallions were  sampled two times at intervals of 4 -7 days. S wab sampling sites were the urethra , 
urethral fossa and its sinus , and the penile sheath.  
(ii) Mares were  sampled two times at intervals of 4 -7 days . Swab sampling sites are the clitoral fos sa 
and sinuses; and  
(d) Did not receive antibiotics in the 7 days (systemic treatment) or 21 days (local treatment) before the first 
sample collection or during the CEM sampling period; or  
(34) Donors have previously shown signs of CEM or have been in direct or ind irect contact with CEM during the 60 
days  prior to collection ; and  
(a) Were  treated for CEM; and  
(b) After treatment, were  subjected to a test for CEM, with negative results:  
(i) Stallions were  sampled three times at intervals of at least 7 days (sampling sites were  the 
urethra, urethral fossa and its sinus, and the penile sheath). Thereafter, the first three mares 
mated or inseminated by the stallion were  tested on clitoral swabs taken 3 times at intervals of at 
least 7 days, starting 2 days after mating or inseminat ion. 
(ii) Teaser m ares were  sampled three times at intervals of at least 7 days (sampling sites are the 
clitoral fossa and sinuses), and 3 endometrial swabs taken during the next 3 oestrus periods. 
Maiden mares only require d 1 endometrial swab  (delete if not applicable) ; and 
(c) Were  protected against any possibility of infection with CEM since the beginning of the tests.  
For Trypanosoma equiperdum (dourine):  
(35) Donors  were kept since birth, or for the 180 days prior to collection of semen for export , in a country which has 
been free from dourine for not less than the 180 days prior to export; or  
(36) Donors  were kept for the 180 days prior to collection of semen for export  on a premises where no case of 
dourine was reported during that period; and  Guidance Document : Semen and Embryos from Equids  
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(a) Were subjected to a d iagnostic test for dourine with negative results; and  
(b) The microscopic examination of the semen for dourine was negative.  
 
 Official Veterinarian  
Name:  
Address:  
Email:   
Signature:   
Date  (dd/mm/yyyy ): 
 Official Veterinarian 
stamp  Guidance Document : Semen and Embryos from Equids  
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Ministry for Primary Industries  Page  13 of 20 
This table accompanies the veterinary certificate with reference number: ___________________________________  
 
Donor and semen information  
Donor identification  Number of 
straw/containers  Straw/container identification  Date of entry into semen 
collection centre  Dates of semen collection period  Date(s) of collection  
   dd/mm/yyyy  dd/mm/yyyy to dd/mm/yyyy  dd/mm/yyyy  
   dd/mm/yyyy  dd/mm/yyyy to dd/mm/yyyy  dd/mm/yyyy  
   dd/mm/yyyy  dd/mm/yyyy to dd/mm/yyyy  dd/mm/yyyy  
 
Test information  
 Equine viral arteritis (EVA)  Equine infectious anaemia (EIA)  Contagious equine metritis (CEM)  Dourine  
Donor identification  Sample date  Test type  Result  Sample date  Test type  Result  Sample dates  Test type  Result  Sample date  Test type  Result  
 dd/mm/yyyy    dd/mm/yyyy    dd/mm/yyyy    dd/mm/yyyy    
 dd/mm/yyyy    dd/mm/yyyy    dd/mm/yyyy    dd/mm/yyyy    
 
Vaccination information  
 Equine viral arteritis (EVA)  
Donor identification  Primary vaccination date(s)  Booster vaccination date  Vaccine name  
 dd/mm/yyyy  dd/mm/yyyy   
 dd/mm/yyyy  dd/mm/yyyy   
  
 
Official Veterinarian 
stamp  Official Veterinarian  
Name:   
Date:  
Signature:  Guidance Document : Semen and Embryos from Equids  
 Draft for Consultation  [Document Date]  
Ministry for Primary Industries  Page  14 of 20 
6.2 Model veterinary certificate for equine embryos  
(1) Below is a model veterinary certificate for trade in equine embryos . This model meets the requirements 
of the IHS.   
 
Part 1: Details of dispatched consignment  1.1.  Consignor (Exporter):  
Name:  
Address:  
 1.2.  Certificate reference number:  
 
1.3.  Competent Authority:  
 
1.4.  Consignee (Importer):  
Name:  
Address:  
 
 
1.5.  Country of origin:  
ISO Code* * 1.6.  Zone or compartment of origin:  
 
1.7.  Country of destination :  
ISO Code* * 1.8.  Zone or compartment of destination:   
1.9.  Place of origin:  
Name:  
Address:  
1.10.  Place of shipment:  1.11.  Date of departure:  
1.12.  Means of transport:  
 
    Aeroplane           Ship  
 
Identification:  
 1.13.  Expected border post:  
1.14.  CITES permit No(s):  
1.15.  Description of commodity:  
 1.16.  Commodity Code (ISO Code **): 
1.17.  Total number of:  
1.18.  Temperature of commodities for transport:  
  Chilled        Frozen    1.19.  Total number of packages:  
1.20.  Identification of container/serial number:  
 1.21.  Type of packaging:  
1.22.  Identification of commodity:  (Scientific name) *** 
Donor name   
Donor identification   
Date of entry into embryo  collection centre  or herd  dd/mm/yyyy  
Date(s) of embryo  collection  dd/mm/yyyy  
Straw/container identification   
Number of straws/containers   
**Optional      ***Table does not need to be completed if summary table is used instead  
 
  Guidance Document : Semen and Embryos from Equids  
 Draft for Consultation  [Document Date]  
Ministry for Primary Industries  Page  15 of 20 
Part 2:  Veterinary Information  Country:  Certificate reference number:  
 
I, the undersigned Official Veterinarian, certify that the product  described above satisfy the following requirements:   
 
Eligibility  
(1) The embryos are  from horses ( Equus caballus ) and/or donkeys ( Equus asinus ). 
(2) The embryos are in vivo -derived  and frozen  
(3) The embryos are not genetically modified.  
Diagnostic testing, vaccination, and treatment  
(4) Diagnostic testing was conducted at a laboratory approved  to conduct export testing  by the Competent Authority  
of a country approved to export embryos to New Zealand  (Australia, Canada, European Union Member States, 
Norway, Switz erland, or the United States) .   
(5) Laboratory samples were collected, processed, and stored as recommended in the OIE Terrestrial Animal 
Health Code and/or Manual of Diagnostic Tests and Vaccines for Terrestrial Animals , or as described in 
MPI-STD-TVTL .  
(6) Diagnostic test(s) and vaccines were those that have been approved by MPI and documented  in 
MPI-STD-TVTL . 
(7) Any products and vaccine(s) administered to satisfy import requirements were administered according to the 
recommendations of the manufacturer  in an appr oved country (Australia, Canada, European Union Member 
States, Norway, Switzerland, or the United States) . 
(8) Any vaccine(s) administered to satisfy import requirements was/were either the final dose of a primary 
vaccination course or the recommended booster to complement the primary course.  
(9) Vaccine names, the virus types and strains included in the vaccine ( where applicable), and date(s) of 
vaccination  are recorded on this veterinary certificate.  
(10) Original reports, or copies of reports endorsed by the Officia l Veterinarian, or a tabulated summary 
accompanied by copies of reports endorsed by the Official Veterinarian of all tests and vaccinations are 
attached to this veterinary certificate .  
Embryo  collection team requirements  
(11) The embryo collection team  meets the current recommendations  of the OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code  
chapter  Collection and Processing of In  Vivo Derived Embryos from Livestock and Equids . 
Name of embryo collection herd/centre:  
Address of embryo collection herd /centre :  
 
Date(s) of embryo collection team approval  for collection period(s) (dd/mm/yyyy ): 
Approval number of embryo collection team:  
Name of approved veterinarian:  
Donor requirements  
(12) Donors were isolated from other equids not of an equivalent tested health status from t he time of sample 
collection for the pre -collection test until completion of embryo  collection for export to New Zealand  
(13) On the da y of collection, the approved  veterinarian ensured by clinical examination including  the external 
reproductive organs , that donors were  free from clinical evidence of infectious diseases transmissible in 
germplasm . 
(14) Donors have (delete as applicable) : 
(a) Not been naturally mated since entry into the embryo  collection herd/ centre, unless required for disease 
testing.   Guidance Document : Semen and Embryos from Equids  
 Draft for Consultation  [Document Date]  
Ministry for Primary Industries  Page  16 of 20 
(b) The s emen used for the artificial insemination  of embryo donors  complies with the equine semen 
requirements of the Import Health Standard for Semen and Embryos from Equids . 
Collection, processing, and storage requirements  
(15) Embryo  collection,  process ing, and stor age meets the current recommendations  of the OIE Terrestrial Animal 
Health Code  chapter  Collection and Processing of In  Vivo Derived Embryos from Livestock and Equids . 
(16) Antibiotics were added during collection, processing, washing, and storage media as recommended in the IETS 
Manual . 
(17) Embryos had an intact zona pellucida and were  free of adherent material after the final wash when examined 
over its entire surface at not l ess than 50X magnification. A ny micro -manipulation that cause d a breach of the 
zona p ellucida, was performed  according to the procedures described in the OIE Terrestrial Animal Health Code  
chapter  Collection and Processing of In  Vivo Derived Embryos from Livestock and Equids and IETS Manual.  
(18) The cryogenic or cooling agent used in the freezing process, storage,  or transport has not  been used previously 
in association with any other product of animal origin.  
(19) Embryos are  in new or disinfected containers which are sealed and tamper -evident, and cl early and 
permanently marked to identify the donor and the date(s) of collection.  The marking conforms to the 
international standards of the IETS .  
(20) Embryos  were only stored with germplasm  that was collected and processed in accordance with the OIE 
Terrestr ial Animal Health Code  chapter  Collection and Processing of Bovine, Small Ruminant and Porcine 
Semen , and/or c hapter  Collection and Processing of In -Vivo Derived Embryos from Livestock and Equids,    
and/or the IETS Manual , and is of equivalent  health status.  
(21) Embryos  were held in a storage place approved by the Competent Authority until the time of export . 
(22) The embryos  in this consignment originate from <approved origin country> , have been stored in <exporting 
country> , and are  accompanied by  (delete ent ire clause if country of origin and export are the same) : 
(a) A declaration from the Competent Authority of < exporting country>  that links the embryos  from < origin 
country > to the embryos  being exported  to New Zealand ; and  
(b) This veterinary certificate certifying that the embryos have  been stored and transported in < exporting 
country > in accordance with the requirements of the Import Health Standard for Semen and Embryos 
from Equids ; and  
(c) Evidence that the embryos were collecte d, processed, and stored in < origin country>  in accordance with 
the requirements of the Import Health Standard for Semen and Embryos from Equids  in the form of 
either:  
(i) A veterinary certificate issued by the Competent Authority of < origin country> certifyi ng that the 
embryos meet the requirements of the Import Health Standard for Semen and Embryos from 
Equids ; or 
(ii) A letter from the Competent Authority of < origin country > confirming the embryos  meet the 
requirements of the Import Health Standard for Semen and  Embryos from Equids . 
Transport requirements  
(23) Embryos  were placed in a transport container that is  (delete as applicable) : 
(a) New; or  
(b) Cleaned and d isinfected .                                       
(24) The transport container was sealed by either the  approved  veterinarian or an Official Veterinarian , using tamper -
evident seals :   
Seal number:  
(25) The embryos  were transferred from one transport container to another (delete entire clause if not applicable).  
Date of transfer  (dd/mm/yyyy ): 
Reason for transfer : 
Facility  moved from:  
 Guidance Document : Semen and Embryos from Equids  
 Draft for Consultation  [Document Date]  
Ministry for Primary Industries  Page  17 of 20 
Facility moved to:  
Veterinarian who performed transfer (name and signature):  
SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS FOR IDENTIFIED RISK ORGANISMS:  
For equine arteritis virus (EVA) :  
(26) Donors showed no clinical sign of EVA on the day of embryo collection;  and 
(a) Were kept for the 28 days prior to embryo  collection on premises where no equid has shown any clinical 
sign of EVA during that period ; and 
(i) Were subjected to a test for EVA carried out on a single blood sample collected  either once 
within 21 days prior  to collection with negative results, or on two occasions at least 14 days apart 
within 28 days prior to collection, which demonstrated stable or declining  antibody  titres ; or 
(ii) Were regularly vaccinated in accordance with the recommendations of the manufact urer; or  
(b) Donors were isolated for the 28 days prior to c ollection and have not shown any clinical sign s of EVA 
during that period.  
For equine herpesvirus -1 abortigenic and paralytic forms (EHV -1): 
(27) Donors:  
(a) Were kept on premises where no case of EHV -1 (abortigenic and paralytic forms) has been reported in 
the 21 days prior to each collection; and  
(b) Showed no clinical signs of EHV -1 infection on the day of collection and during the 21 days prior to 
collection.  
For equine infectious anaemia (EIA):  
(28) Donors:  
(a) Were kept on premises where no case of EIA has been reported during the 90 days prior to each 
collection; and  
(b) Showed no clinical sign of EIA on the day of each collection; and  
(c) Were subjected to a test for EIA in the  21 days prior to collection , with a negat ive result.  
 
For Taylorella equigenitalis and Taylorella asinigenitalis (CEM):  
(29) Donors were kept, since birth or for at least the 60 days prior to collection, in a country recognised by MPI as 
free from CEM, where no case of CEM has been reported  in the 2 years prior to export ; or 
(30) Donors were kept, since birth or for at least 60 days prior to collection, on premises where no case of CEM has 
been reported during that time ; and  
(a) Have had no direct or indirect contact with CEM during the two months pr ior to collection; and  
(b) Showed no clinical signs of CEM on the day of each collection; and  
(c) Were subjected to a test for CEM within 30 days prior to collection with  negative results . Donors  were 
sampled two times at intervals of 4 -7 days (swab sampling sites  are the clitoral fossa and sinuses); and  
(d) Did not receive antibiotics in the 7 days (systemic treatment) or 21 days (local treatment) before the first 
sample collection or during the CEM sampling period; or  
(31) Donors have previously shown signs of CEM or have  been in direct or indirect contact with CEM during the 60 
days  prior to collection ; and  
(a) Were treated for CEM; and   
(b) After treatment, were subjected to a test  for CEM, with negative results. Donors were sampled three 
times at intervals of at least 7 days (s ampling sites are the clitoral fossa and sinuses), and 3 endometrial 
swabs taken du ring the next 3 oestrus periods . Maiden mares only require 1 endometrial swab ; and  
 Guidance Document : Semen and Embryos from Equids  
 Draft for Consultation  [Document Date]  
Ministry for Primary Industries  Page  18 of 20 
(c) Were  protected against any possibility of infection with CEM since the beginning of the tests.  
For Trypanosoma equiperdum (dourine):  
(32) Donors were kept since birth, or for the 180 days prior to collection of embryos  for export, in a country which has 
been free from dourine for not less than the 180 days prior to export; or  
(33) Donors were kept for the 180 days prior to collection of semen for export on a premises where no case of 
dourine was r eported during that period a nd w ere subjected to a diagnostic test for do urine with negative 
results.  
 Official Veterinarian  
Name:  
Address:  
Email:  
  
Signature:   
Date  (dd/mm/yyyy ):  
Official Veterinarian 
stamp  Guidance Document : Semen and Embryos from Equids  
 Draft for Consultation  [Document Date]  
Ministry for Primary Industries  Page  19 of 20 
This table accompanies the veterinary certificate with reference number: ___________________________________  
 
Donor information  
Female d onor identification  Number of 
containers  Number of 
embryos/container  Container identification  Date of entry into 
embryo collection 
herd/centre  Date(s) of 
collection  Male donor identification  Date of semen 
collection/natural 
mating  
    dd/mm/yyyy  dd/mm/yyyy   dd/mm/yyyy  
    dd/mm/yyyy  dd/mm/yyyy   dd/mm/yyyy  
    dd/mm/yyyy  dd/mm/yyyy   dd/mm/yyyy  
 
Test information  
 Equine viral arteritis (EVA)  Equine infectious anaemia (EIA)  Contagious equine metritis (CEM)  Dourine  
Donor identification  Sample date  Test type  Result  Sample date  Test type  Result  Sample dates  Test type  Result  Sample date  Test type  Result  
 dd/mm/yyyy    dd/mm/yyyy    dd/mm/yyyy    dd/mm/yyyy    
 dd/mm/yyyy    dd/mm/yyyy    dd/mm/yyyy    dd/mm/yyyy    
 
Vaccination information  
 Equine viral arteritis (EVA)  
Donor identification  Primary vaccination date(s)  Booster vaccination date  Vaccine name  
 dd/mm/yyyy  dd/mm/yyyy   
 dd/mm/yyyy  dd/mm/yyyy   
Official Veterinarian  
Name:   
Date:  
Signature:  Official Veterinarian 
stamp  Guidance Document : Semen and Embryos from Equids  
 Draft for Consultation  [Document Date]  
Ministry for Primary Industries  Page  20 of 20 
Appendix 1 – Document History  
Date First Issued  Title Shortcode  
3 December 2015  Guidance Document:  Semen and Embryos from 
Horses ( Equidae ) HORSSEMB.SPE  
Date of Issued Amendments  Title Shortcode  
7 July 2017  Guidance Document:  Semen and Embryos from 
Horses ( Equidae ) HORSSEMB.SPE  
9 May 2018  Guidance Document:  Semen and Embryos from 
Horses ( Equidae ) HORSSEMB.SPE  
TBA Guidance Document: Semen and Embryos from 
Equids  EQUIGERM.SPE