New Zealand sets date for reopening to tourists after nearly two years

A pedestrian weariing a face masks walks previous a storefront studying “Welcome Back!” as buyers return to the Newmarket retail district within the wake of coronavirus illness (COVID-19) lockdown restrictions being eased in Auckland, New Zealand, November 10, 2021. REUTERS/Fiona Goodall

WELLINGTON, Nov 24 (Reuters) – New Zealand will preserve its borders closed to most worldwide travellers for an additional 5 months, the federal government stated on Wednesday, outlining a cautious easing of coronavirus border curbs which have been in place for nearly two years.

Along with its geographic isolation, the South Pacific nation enforced a few of the tightest pandemic restrictions amongst OECD nations, limiting the unfold of COVID-19 and serving to its financial system bounce again quicker than a lot of its friends.

But an outbreak of the extremely contagious Delta variant earlier this yr has compelled a shift in technique, with the principle metropolis of Auckland now solely step by step opening up as vaccination charges climb.

Fully vaccinated worldwide travellers shall be allowed to enter the nation from April 30, COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins advised a information convention. The travellers may have to self-isolate for seven days on arrival.

Vaccinated New Zealanders and residence visa holders in neighbouring Australia can journey to New Zealand from Jan. 16, whereas vaccinated New Zealanders and residence visa holders most from different nations shall be allowed in from Feb. 13.

“A phased approach to reconnecting with the world is the safest approach to ensure risk is carefully managed,” Hipkins stated.

“This reduces any potential impacts on vulnerable communities and the New Zealand health system.”

Travellers will now not be required to keep at state quarantine services, he stated, however different measures shall be put in place together with self-isolation, a destructive pre-departure take a look at, proof of being totally vaccinated, and a COVID-19 take a look at on arrival.

Pressure has been mounting on Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern to reopen worldwide borders forward of the Christmas holidays in order that expatriate New Zealanders might return dwelling.

Air New Zealand (AIR.NZ) stated final week it had cancelled about 1,000 flights to Australia due to border uncertainty.

Many industries have additionally campaigned to reopen borders extra shortly as they struggle to fill job vacancies.

New Zealand has recorded simply over 10,000 COVID-19 instances because the pandemic started, and 40 deaths – far fewer than most comparable nations.

Reporting by Praveen Menon; Editing by Tom Hogue and Lincoln Feast

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