For the first time in two years, New Zealand is reopening its borders to vaccinated travellers from about 60 countries that do not require a visa, including Belgium.
The first international travellers arrived at Auckland airport on Monday, and New Zealand’s Tourism Minister Stuart Nash expects 33,000 visitors this week alone.
“Today is a day to celebrate, and it is a great moment that reconnects us with the world,” said Nash.
Covid-19 restrictions were among strictest in the world
Friends and family were having emotional reunions after years spent apart due to New Zealand’s Covid-19 restrictions, which were among the strictest in the world.
In March 2020, New Zealand closed its borders to almost all travellers. The country of about 5 million people has since reported nearly 1 million cases and some 700 deaths since the start of the crisis.
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Travellers will still have to undergo a Covid-19 test upon departure and arrival, but self-isolation will no longer be necessary.
A complete reopening of the borders for all visa categories is expected by October.
