New Zealand has reopened its borders, closed for more than two years due to the pandemic

First change: 08/02/2022 – 01:08

The move was announced by the New Zealand government in a statement this Sunday, including all tourists and international students, for whom teaching activities will resume.

The education sector for foreigners is important to the country and contributes significantly to the national economy. Before the pandemic, it generated approximately US$3,146 million, a 75% decline in 2021.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern highlighted the importance of opening borders for the country:

“This has been a phased and cautious process on our part since February as we, along with the rest of the world, continue to manage a live global pandemic while keeping our people safe,” Ardern said.

Although the borders have returned to their normal operations, authorities have clarified certain requirements upon entering the country, such as providing a vaccination certificate or an approved exemption. Citizens must take two Covid-19 tests upon arrival, although quarantine is not required.

This Monday, the first travelers to the country through Auckland International Airport expressed their joy at being able to return. “I’m going to see my family after almost two years and I’m going to see my son-in-law for the first time,” one of them said through tears.

“It’s been more than two-and-a-half years since Covid, so this is the first time we’re coming back,” said another passenger who got off the plane.

A complete reactivation of tourism

The country will now allow foreign cruise ships and pleasure boats to dock at its ports, the first of which is due to arrive in Auckland Harbor on August 12, New Zealand Tourism Minister Stuart Nash welcomed. He said the return of the ships would boost local industries.

“The majority of cruise ship arrivals are in the warmer months of October through April, and summer is typically our prime tourist season. This means business is in full swing,” Nash said.

The country’s borders took the first step towards opening on February 28 this year, a move that will only benefit New Zealanders. The entry limit for a limited number of nationals per day has been removed. The purpose of the control is so that the authorities can control and check the health of those who enter, thus preventing the spread of the virus throughout the territory.

From that moment, the government introduced a five-phase plan that gradually eased restrictions over several months.

New Zealand is home to 5 million people, 96% of the population has received two doses of the vaccine and currently has more than 1.6 million cases of Covid-19. The epidemic has caused more than 1,500 deaths since it began.

With Reuters and EFE