In February 2022, the New Zealand government had already presented a detailed plan that provided for a gradual reopening to tourists from all over the world. However, this did not look too optimistic: Tourists from Europe would not be able to enter again until July 2022. And even then, a quarantine would still have to be completed in a hotel.
Now that Australia has pushed ahead, everything is going faster than planned. On March 16, the government published a new plan, which envisages opening as early as May. Contrary to the original plans, no quarantine is required after arrival in New Zealand. However, only vaccinated travellers are permitted to enter under these conditions.
New Plan for Travellers from all over the World
Before tourists from the rest of the world are allowed back in, travel between Australia and New Zealand will be made easier. Australian citizens can enter the country again from April 13. From May 2 (to be precise: 11:59 p.m. local time on May 1) the opening for travellers from other countries will take place.
Self-isolation after entry is not required. However, a negative corona test (probably PCR) must be presented before departure. After entry, two further rapid antigen tests are mandatory (on days 0/1 and 5/6).
Since 2019 eTA Required for Entry
Citizens from many European countries, among others, may enter New Zealand without a visa, but new regulations have been in force since October 2019. For entry without a visa, an NZeTA must now be applied for, comparable to the American ESTA. There is a cost of NZ$44 (~€24) (min. $9 for the NZeTA + $35 city tax).
NZeTA is not linked to the Covid pandemic. However, many travellers may not yet be familiar with the new requirement. Shortly after its introduction, Covid-19 paralysed international travel.
Source: Government of New Zealand
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