New Zealand Fully Reopens Borders Since Closing March 2020 Due To COVID-19, PM Ardern: A Gradual And Cautious Process

New Zealand illustration. (Wikimedia Commons/Phillip Capper)

JAKARTA - The New Zealand government has fully reopened its international borders to visitors from around the world starting Monday, the first time since the closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020.

Previously, New Zealand reopened its borders in February, but only to citizens of that country, with the restrictions gradually easing.

The border reopening process ended last night with visa-requiring visitors and those on student visas now also being allowed to return to New Zealand.

Not only that, New Zealand is now also allowing foreign recreational yachts and yachts to return to its ports.

However, most visitors arriving in New Zealand will still need to be vaccinated against COVID and must undergo two COVID tests upon arrival. However, there is no quarantine requirement.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said Monday in a speech at the China Business Summit in Auckland, the opening of the last stage of the border has been a very big moment.

"This has been a gradual and cautious process on our part since February as we, along with the rest of the world, continue to manage a very real global pandemic, while keeping our people safe," PM Ardern said.

International students are significant contributors to New Zealand's economy and education providers hope the reopening of the border will again provide a boost to schools and universities across the country.

Meanwhile, New Zealand Tourism Minister Stuart Nash said the return of cruise ships would also be a boost for the local industry.

"Most cruise ship visits occur during the warm months of October to April, and summer is our main tourism season overall. This means the industry will thrive," said Nash.