New Zealand Reopens Borders to the World on July 31

After opening its borders to over 60 visa-waiver nations last Monday, New Zealand is set to fully reopen to the rest of the world on July 31, moving the timeline up by three months.

The country has gradually relaxed border controls, allowing New Zealanders from abroad and visitors from Australia to enter. May 2 marked a significant milestone in New Zealand’s reopening strategy, as the nation welcomed international tourists from countries such as the USA, the UK, Canada, Germany, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, and others.

The final countdown has begun. The government recently announced that at 11:59 PM on July 31, the borders will open to tourists from countries without visa-free agreements with New Zealand.

Prime Minister Jacinda Arden expressed hope that this forward shift would reinvigorate the tourism sector, especially given the high vaccination rates and stabilizing infection levels.

“This is great news for families, businesses, and migrant communities,” she stated regarding the early reopening strategy. “It allows airlines and cruise companies to prepare effectively for a return to New Zealand during the peak spring and summer seasons.”

Data from the tourism ministry indicates that international flight searches to New Zealand have surged by 19% compared to pre-COVID levels. Major airlines are resuming and expanding routes in anticipation of a spike in travel demand, including the introduction of the first direct flight between New Zealand and New York City.

“Later this year, prominent international carriers like Emirates, Air Canada, Malaysian Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, LATAM Airlines, and Air Tahiti Nui will resume flights,” stated tourism minister Stuart Nash. “Air NZ is also expanding long-haul services from San Francisco, Honolulu, Houston, New York, and Chicago.”

Entry Rules for New Zealand: Testing and Vaccination Requirements

Vaccinated travelers will no longer need to self-isolate upon entry; however, individuals aged two and older will still be required to undergo COVID-19 testing.

Travelers must complete a pre-departure test. Upon arrival in New Zealand, they will receive three rapid antigen tests to use at home: one for day one, another for day five or six, and a third for backup.

If an arrival tests positive, they must undergo a PCR test at a community testing facility to help monitor emerging variants and manage cases effectively.

For individuals who are not fully vaccinated, mandatory quarantine at a government-run facility will be required.

To qualify as fully vaccinated, travelers must have completed the primary vaccination course, which generally means receiving at least two doses, or one dose if using the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. A booster is not mandatory for entry at this time.

The phased reopening of New Zealand’s borders will proceed in October, when the country will completely reopen to visitors worldwide and resume normal visa processing.