New Zealand reopened its international borders to all visitors from Monday, more than two years after the closures imposed in an attempt to contain the COVID-19 outbreak.
The measure applies to tourists who require a visa, including Chinese as well as international students, the New Zealand government explained in a statement released on Sunday.
New Zealand began gradually reopening its international borders in February last year, but initially only citizens returning from abroad were allowed entry into the country, in line with the government’s plan.
What does it mean to open borders?
However, from today, entry is allowed for all visitors, albeit on the condition that they present a certificate of vaccination against COVID-19 or approved exemption.
“This is great news for the tourism industry and the economy as we move into spring and summer as people in the northern hemisphere book their winter holidays,” New Zealand Tourism Minister Stuart Nash was quoted as saying.
The measure also gives the green light for cruise ships to enter the country – the first of which is scheduled to arrive at the port of Auckland on August 12 – as well as the resumption of all educational activities for international students.
Before the pandemic COVID-19the foreigner-focused education sector contributed about NZ$5 billion (US$3.146 million or €3.072 million) to the country’s economy, a figure that has fallen nearly 75 percent in the past year, according to Radio New Zealand.
Armored borders since March 2020
New Zealand has closed its borders since March 2020 and even delayed the return of its citizens by setting a daily entry quota to prevent the spread of the virus. COVID-19 spread throughout the country.
In early February, authorities announced a five-phase reopening plan that began on February 28, lifting the daily limit for returning New Zealanders.
New Zealandwhich vaccinated 96% of the target population with two doses, has over 1.6 million cases and over 1,500 deaths since the start of the pandemic COVID-19.
(As reported by EFE)
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Source: RPP
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