In a massive boost for trans-Tasman tourism, the New Zealand government has announced it will be ditching testing requirements for travellers to produce a negative COVID-19 result before arriving in the country.
Effective Tuesday, June 21, unvaccinated travellers will also be able to enter New Zealand without quarantining for the first time during the pandemic.
The move follows a similar shift from Australia in April, and the United States last weekend.
Tourism figures have welcomed the move, suggesting tourists were choosing to travel to places like Australia which do not have pre-departure testing, which can be costly and logistically challenging.
International arrivals will still need to complete two rapid antigen tests after landing in New Zealand as the government tracks new variants.
Mask mandates remain for many indoor settings in New Zealand, including public transport and retail.
For more, head to www.govt.nz/international-travel/how-to-enter-new-zealand/travel-with-australia
📷 Miles Holden