The government of New Zealand has announced its plans to reopen its borders and allow foreigners to visit the country next year. Visitors who have been completely vaccinated can enter beginning April 30 and will be compelled to self-isolate for seven days after they arrive. More New Zealanders will be permitted to return home under the same conditions starting early next year. Many people and visitors have been prohibited from entering the country since the Covid outbreak began when borders were slammed shut. Chris Hipkins, the Covid-19 Response Minister, explained the anticipated staged reopening, saying it is “the safest approach to ensure risk is carefully managed”.

In the first phase of the reopening, fully vaccinated New Zealand citizens and residents who are currently in Australia will be eligible to return from January 16 onward. On February 13, New Zealanders who are currently residing in another nation will be entitled to enter. Foreign travelers will be the last group allowed into the country after April 30. Upon arrival, all visitors must be properly vaccinated, self-isolated for seven days, and have their Covid levels checked. “This (phased approach) reduces any potential impacts on vulnerable communities and the New Zealand health system,” Mr. Hipkins said. Only New Zealand citizens and permanent residents are allowed to enter the country at this time, and they must stay in government-run quarantine motels for seven days.