New Zealand has postponed the start of its quarantine-free border reopening until the end of February due to the rise in cases of the Omicron variant around the world.
The government announced a phased reopening of the country last month, with plans to reopen on January 17 to fully vaccinated New Zealand citizens and visa holders in Australia, followed by New Zealanders in most other countries from February 13, and to all foreign travellers from April 30.
The government is also shortening the pre-departure test requirement from 72 hours to 48 hours, and lengthening the stay in MIQ [government-managed isolation and quarantine facilities] from seven to ten days.
Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins announced the news at a press conference in Wellington:
“All of the evidence so far points to Omicron being the most transmissible Covid-19 variant yet and public health advice says that soon, every case that comes into MIQ will be Omicron.
“There’s no doubt this is disappointing and will upset many holiday plans, but it’s important to set these changes out clearly today so they can have time to consider those plans.
“COVID-19 keeps throwing new curve balls and we have to respond in a way that continues to protect lives and livelihoods without putting in place restrictions and lockdowns unless absolutely necessary.”
