New Zealand’s borders fully opened to visitors from around the world on Monday, for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic closed them in March 2020. New Zealand’s borders began reopening to New Zealanders in February and restrictions have been gradually eased. The process to open the border was completed last night with visitors requiring visas and those on student visas now allowed to return to New Zealand. New Zealand now also allows cruise ships and foreign pleasure yachts to dock in its ports. Most visitors arriving in New Zealand still need to be vaccinated against COVID and must have two COVID tests upon arrival. However, there are no quarantine requirements. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Monday during a speech at the China Business Summit in Auckland that the final opening of the border was a huge moment. “It’s been a staged and careful process on our part since February as we, along with the rest of the world, continue to manage a very live global pandemic while keeping our people safe.” International students have made a significant contribution to New Zealand’s economy and education providers hope the re-opening of borders will once again boost schools and universities across the country. New Zealand Tourism Minister Stuart Nash said the return of cruise ships would also be a boost for local industries. “Most cruise visits are during the warmer months from October to April, and summer is our tourist season in general. That means it will be in full swing for the industry,” Nash said. (Reporting by Lucy Craymer Editing by Sandra Maler and Michael Perry)
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