Fri. Mar 29th, 2024
source: AFPSource: AFP

After more than two years, New Zealand plans to reopen its border for international travelers. Although, according to the current plan, the border will not be open until the month of October, Prime Minister Ardern is eager to get it open sooner than scheduled.

Australians will also be allowed to travel to New Zealand without an isolation period as of 13th of April. However, they must be fully vaccinated and provide a negative COVID test report.

The tourism minister Stuart Nash said, “we are ready to roll out the green and gold carpet to our Australian neighbors, and in time for the school holidays.” He added, “we have missed you.”

Then, from 2nd May onwards, fully vaccinated travelers from about 60 visa-waiver countries, including the United States and United Kingdom, could travel the country.

According to the current plan, presently, only New Zealand citizens are allowed to travel in and out.

“We have now received the guidance that it is safe to significantly bring forward the next stage of broader reopening work, bringing back our tourists,” she added.

The announcement will definitely come as a relief for tourism and hospitality businesses, which have faced hardship due to COVID restrictions and closures.

Despite difficult lockdown periods and virtual isolations, the country manages to sail through it successfully. Currently, New Zealand has a 95% vaccination rate in the eligible population and it has recorded 115 COVID deaths.

 

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