New Zealand to open international borders fully to visitors from end-July
People prepare to go fishing from the Orakei Wharf as coronavirus disease (COVID-19) lockdown restrictions are eased in Auckland, New Zealand, November 10, 2021. REUTERS FILE PHOTO
WELLINGTON — New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Wednesday the country will fully reopen its international borders from 11:59 p.m. on July 31, with cruise ships also welcome back to local ports on the same day.
The end-July opening of the border is two months earlier than the government’s previous time frame and will mean visitors who need visas will now be able to come to New Zealand.
Ardern said in a speech to a Business NZ lunch in Auckland that opening the borders would help to relieve urgent skills shortages, open up tourism and put immigration settings on a more secure footing.
“We are building on our proven plan to secure New Zealand’s economic future,” Ardern said.
RELATED STORIES
Article continues after this advertisementTears and chocolates as New Zealand opens its borders to 60 more countries
Article continues after this advertisementWith hugs, tears and Maori performers, New Zealand welcomes Australian visitors as curbs ease
New Zealand lifts most vaccine mandate as Omicron outbreak nears peak
New Zealand to reopen borders earlier than planned
For more news about the novel coronavirus click here.
What you need to know about Coronavirus.
For more information on COVID-19, call the DOH Hotline: (02) 86517800 local 1149/1150.
The Inquirer Foundation supports our healthcare frontliners and is still accepting cash donations to be deposited at Banco de Oro (BDO) current account #007960018860 or donate through PayMaya using this link.
