New Zealand Fully Reopened Its Borders to Foreign Travellers

For the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic outbreak in March 2020, New Zealand has reopened its borders to foreign travelers.

All tourists, even those from nations that do not grant visa waivers and international students, will henceforth be accepted by the nation.

The country’s reconnecting plan has reached its final checkpoint with the change in border settings.

Jacinda Ardern, the prime minister, referred to it as an “enormous moment” and said that it was a part of a “cautious process.”

The government of New Zealand declared: “This is great news to the tourism industry and economy as we approach spring and summer with people from the northern hemisphere booking their winter holidays. 

“We have heard optimistic messages from tourism operators who are ready to welcome back international visitors from all over the world.”

The nation also allowed cruise ships access to its maritime boundaries.

Passengers will be required to show proof of immunization, nevertheless.

Before the pandemic, cruise calls brought in more than $500 million New Zealand dollars annually, of which $356 million were spent ashore.

“Most cruise visits are during the warmer months of October to April, and summer is our bumper tourism season overall,” the government said. 

“This means it will be full steam ahead for the industry who can plan with certainty for the rest of the year and beyond.”