Another COVID-19-era milestone has been reached as New Zealand drops entry requirements for travellers.
New Zealand has no COVID-19 travel-related restrictions following the scrapping of pre-departure test requirements and vaccine mandates from 13 September 2022.
Once home to some of the world’s strictest pandemic rules, travellers can now file New Zealand under ‘easy entry’. The change comes as New Zealand prepares to ‘turn the page’ on its management of the pandemic.
This means that for the first time since July 2021, there will be no COVID-19 testing required for travel between Australia and New Zealand. However, Rapid Antigen Tests will still be handed out upon arrival. While testing is encouraged, there is no longer any requirement to do the test or report its result.
Though there is no longer a requirement to provide evidence of vaccination to enter New Zealand, certain airlines may require this to travel onboard their aircraft.
Compulsory: New Zealand Traveller Declaration
It still remains compulsory to complete a Traveller Declaration and receive a Traveller Pass if you are travelling to New Zealand by air.
You will need the following information to fill out a New Zealand Traveller Declaration:
- passport
- travel history for the past 14 days
- flight details
- contact details (including a working email address)
- emergency contact details
What if I test positive in New Zealand?
New Zealand requires anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 to self-isolate for seven days. However, household contacts are no longer required to do so.
For more information on this and other COVID-19 requirements, visit New Zealand’s official Unite Against COVID-19 website.
Conclusion
New Zealand first reopened to vaccinated tourists in May 2022 before getting rid of pre-arrival testing for vaccinated visitors in June.
Along with the most recent changes, Air New Zealand has now dropped the mask mandate on board its flights.
This development comes soon after Australia scrapped the requirement to wear a face mask on all domestic flights.
Do these changes make you want to book a trip to New Zealand? Get inspired with this guide to the wild west coast of New Zealand’s South Island.
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