The government of New Zealand has stated that international crossings would be reopened to travelers who have been vaccinated as of May 1st. Arrivals from countries with visa waivers will no longer be required to isolate at arrival or to produce a negative pre-departure test, as previously required.
A negative quick antigen test will still be necessary on the day of arrival as well as on the fifth and sixth days.
“It is incredibly wonderful that overseas tourists will soon be able to visit New Zealand and experience the country’s warm welcome, known as’manaakitanga,'” said Sarah Handley, general manager for the Americas and Europe at Tourism New Zealand.
“Today’s announcement will provide our tourist sector with the assurance and impetus it needs to scale up efforts in overseas markets,” said the minister. Visitors from Australia who have had all necessary vaccinations will be able to return to New Zealand starting on April 12.
“We are looking forward to welcome manuhiri (visitors), family and friends back into New Zealand starting in April,” said René de Monchy, chief executive of Tourism New Zealand.
‘From breath-taking landscapes to rare and exceptional species to our rich culture and tradition, New Zealand has plenty to offer foreign tourists. Our people and place are what distinguish us from other countries, and we look forward to sharing this with the world once again.’
The action is a step forward in the reopening plans that were revealed earlier in the year.