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When do New Zealand's borders open?
Dig out your passports, everyone! This week, New Zealand's prime minister, Jacinda Ardern, has announced the country is "ready to welcome the world back" months ahead of schedule. It's been two years since New Zealand's first outbreak of Covid-19 cases in 2020, resulting in Arden's decision to impose strict border controls and isolate the country, measures that successfully helped curb the spread of the virus.
Earlier this year, the government finally opened its gates to Kiwis trapped overseas, many of whom had spent months or even years locked out of their home nation due to the lack of spaces and expense of the country's quarantine hotels. Then it was revealed that from Monday 14th March, skilled and essential workers, like those employed in medicine or constriction, would be invited back.
But, after vaccinating the vast majority of adults quicker than expected — 95% of over 12's have been double-jabbed, and 72% have had a booster shot — the prime minister has agreed vaccinated tourists can also come in and enjoy the South Pacific island's stunning scenery and fantastic vinos.
Here are the important dates for you to add to your calendar:
- 13th April: vaccinated Australians can enter the country without an isolation period.
- 2nd May: vaccinated tourists from visa-waiver countries, including the United States, Britain, Germany, Singapore, and Canada, are in the next stage.
- October: although there isn't a set date yet, visitors from countries without visa waivers, such as China and India, should be granted entry towards the end of the year.
While it's no longer necessary for tourists to quarantine on arrival, you must have had the Covid-19 vaccination and be able to show a negative pre-departure test.
This week, New Zealand's prime minister, Jacinda Ardern, has announced the country is "ready to welcome the world back" months ahead of schedule.
5 unforgettable things to do in New Zealand
Whether you're planning the trip of a lifetime or considering a permanent move to New Zealand, with more natural wonders and bucket-list experiences than you could shake at Hobbit at, your itinerary for this spectacular island nation is guaranteed to be jam-packed. From wildlife spotting to bungee jumping, sandboarding to stargazing, it can be tricky deciding where to begin, so here are a few of our favourite Kiwi must-visits:
1. Sip wine on Waiheke Island:
Only a 40-minute ferry ride from Auckland, the picturesque Waiheke Island boasts several outstanding beaches — however, it's the award-winning reds and whites that draw visitors back time and time again. The hot, dry climate is ideal for growing Shiraz and Pinot Gris grapes and with almost thirty vineyards competing for space on this tiny enclave, you're sure to be spoilt for choice.
2. Spot Bilbo and Frodo at Hobbiton:
Even those who fell asleep during the epic Lord of Rings trilogy, directed by resident New Zealander Peter Jackson, will still appreciate the effort and attention to detail used to craft this fantastical film set. A guided tour of Hobbiton in Matamata, land of The Shire's lush, rolling pastures, will take you past Bag End and the Mill to the Green Dragon Inn, where you'll be able to indulge in a Southfarthing tipple.
3. Cheer on the All Blacks rugby team:
The Kiwis love their rugby and their national team, the All Blacks, consistently rank among the best in the world.If you're not lucky enough to catch a match during your visit to the country, you can still take a tour of their home stadium, Eden Park, in Auckland.
Highlights include discovering the stories behind some of the most well-known players who've worn the iconic black jersey and an interactive zone where you can test your rugby skills against the professionals.
4. Be wowed by Milford Sound:
Described by Rudyard Kipling as 'the eighth wonder of the world', the 15km stretch that makes up Milford Sound's dramatic fjords is located in Fiordland National Park on the South Island, and it's not a sight you'll want to miss. Boasting sheer rock faces scrapped out by glaciers during the Ice Age, its snow-capped peaks and jaw-dropping waterfalls are best seen by kayak or on an overnight boat ride. Keep your eyes peeled, and you might even spot a pod of dolphins!
5. Immerse yourself in Māori culture:
The Māori are the indigenous people of New Zealand, and the best place to soak up their culture and hospitality is in Rotorua, at the Tamaki Māori Village. Known for their intricate tattoos and fearsome dance called the Haka, where warriors stick out their tongues and stamp their feet to intimidate enemies, at the village, you'll have a chance to learn more about their values and ancient traditions.
Shipping to New Zealand for over 25 years
No matter if you're only looking to ship boxes to New Zealand or the entire contents of your home, Seven Sea Worldwide's team of international removals experts can help transport your belongings seamlessly and affordably.
Get your free instant online quote today or get in touch with our friendly multilingual customer support advisers for more information.