Travel Update for New Zealand: COVID-19 Guidelines

New Zealand confirmed its first case of COVID-19 on February 28, and the country moved quickly to curb the outbreak, implementing self-quarantine for incoming travelers on March 14 and entering lockdown just 10 days later. By the end of April, government restrictions began to lift, with early May marking the country’s first day without a new case. Although there have been occasional positive cases since then, the situation has largely remained under control. However, on August 10, a small cluster of cases in Auckland led to the reintroduction of lockdown restrictions. Here are the latest updates:

Current Travel Restrictions in New Zealand

New Zealand’s border is currently closed to nearly all air and sea arrivals. Only citizens and residents with valid travel conditions can enter without prior approval, barring a few exceptions. Transit passengers are also forbidden from entering New Zealand at this time.

Government officials had been considering a trans-Tasman travel bubble with Australia, but plans are currently on hold as cases continue to rise in Australia. Instead, a partnership with the Cook Islands is under consideration.

Quarantine Requirements Upon Arrival

All travelers entering New Zealand are required to undergo a minimum of 14 days of quarantine in government-provided hotels. Passengers must wear face masks until they arrive at their designated facility, including during the deplaning process and initial screening for COVID-19 symptoms. Those exhibiting symptoms and individuals awaiting test results will be transferred to a quarantine facility, while others will be assigned to managed isolation. No domestic flights are allowed until quarantine is complete, and health assessments along with negative COVID-19 tests are necessary before travelers can enter the general community.

For sea travelers, the 14 days of quarantine begins once their vessel enters New Zealand’s territorial waters, and isolation is expected to be completed onboard. Additional details regarding maritime exceptions can be found through the Ministry of Health here.

Current Lockdown Status in New Zealand

As of August 12, the Auckland region (Auckland Council area) will remain at Alert Level 3 for three days, until midnight on August 14. Meanwhile, the rest of New Zealand transitions to Alert Level 2. In this tiered alert system, level 2 indicates a need to “reduce” contact as the disease is contained but still poses a risk of transmission. Conversely, level 3 is characterized by “restrict” measures due to community transmission.

Residents of Auckland are asked to stay at home unless they are essential workers, while bars and restaurants have closed except for takeaway services. Current restrictions also encourage schools to open with limited capacity and public venues like libraries, museums, and gyms to limit access. For more information on the restrictions affecting Auckland, please refer here.

Nationwide, New Zealanders are encouraged to keep a record of their movements and interactions for rapid contact tracing. Consequently, many businesses are displaying COVID-tracer QR codes.

Despite the easing of restrictions, numerous commercial establishments remain closed, particularly in tourist-oriented areas like Queenstown. Reports indicate that approximately half of the hotels in Queenstown remain shuttered, with one local businessman revealing significant low occupancy rates even with discounts. However, the ski season is currently in full swing, reporting increased visitors in South Island destinations.

FAQs About Travel in New Zealand

Auckland: A recent cluster of cases has resulted in heightened restrictions in Auckland, effective August 12. Essential workers are encouraged to remain home, and although schools are open, capacity is limited. Various public venues are also advised to close. Refer to the restrictions here.

Queenstown: Ski resorts like Coronet Peak and the Remarkables have recently reported their highest turnout in years, with around 10,000 visitors across both resorts. Additionally, the Shotover Jet boat ride has reopened, providing thrilling experiences to visitors.

Wellington: Attractions such as the Zealandia sanctuary, the Wellington Botanic Gardens, and the Wellington Museum have reopened without restrictions.

Public Sentiment on Travel and COVID-19

New Zealand’s early border closures and strict quarantine requirements were vital in managing COVID-19. Nonetheless, these measures significantly impacted the economy, especially the tourism sector. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is actively promoting domestic tourism with initiatives to encourage travel within the country. However, considering that foreign tourists account for a substantial portion of New Zealand’s tourism GDP, the country may face economic challenges until international travel resumes.

In heavy tourism areas such as Queenstown, local businesses are experiencing difficulties, leaving migrant workers particularly vulnerable. While some local residents express concern about reopening borders, calling for caution, talks regarding a quarantine-free travel bubble with the Cook Islands are underway, signaling potential progress in international travel.

It remains crucial for New Zealand to prioritize safety and caution, ensuring that no COVID-19 cases re-enter the Pacific region. As discussions continue, both the government and travelers must stay informed to adapt to any changes in regulations.

COVID-19 Snapshot

Stay updated on New Zealand’s travel regulations and guidelines to ensure a safe journey. For reliable information on COVID-19 and travel, check official health resources.