The New Zealand Shipping Company was formed in London in 1873. Fitted ships with refrigerated capacity for NZ meat were introduced in 1881. In 1910 NZSCo together with Shaw, Savill & Albion Line and White Star Line took control of the Canadian-Australasian Line (James Huddart) and recommenced services between New Zealand - Australia and Canada. In 1912 NZSCo took over Federal Steam Navigation Company but they continued to trade under their own name and colours.

In 1916 P&O Line took over NZSCo but the company continued to operate as before. In 1936 the Montreal - Australian New Zealand Line (MANZ Line) was formed in conjunction with Ellerman & Bucknall and the Port Line. This service closed in 1971. In 1973 ownership of all ships was transferred to P&O Line and the existence of NZSCo as a separate company ceased.