Huge news!
We’ve been clinging to hope since last year that the Trans-Tasman travel bubble would open for both countries. A heavy string of rumours suggested that borders between Australia and New Zealand were to open once Covid-19 cases were under control. (Featured image: @aaronkongsebastian)
Well, the day has finally come. Australian and New Zealand residents will be able to travel between the two nations without having to quarantine from 19 April.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced the much-awaited news earlier today. She praised the two countries for containing the virus and their overall Covid response. “I cannot see or point to any countries in the world that are maintaining a strategy of keeping their countries completely Covid-free, whilst opening up to international travel between each other,” she said.
“That means that, in a way, you know, we are world-leading.”
Prime Minister Scott Morrison welcomed Ms Ardern’s decision stressing on the economic implications of this news. “The fact that we can now combine again will mean more jobs, will mean people reunited,” he said.
How the Trans-Tasman bubble will work
Although passengers travelling to New Zealand will not be required to quarantine, they will be required to have spent the 14 days before their flight in Australia only.
If you are experiencing any cold or flu-like symptoms, you will not be allowed to travel. Passengers will also be required to wear masks and reveal their travel and stay information to relevant New Zealand authorities. Other restrictions might be put in place if a sudden outbreak was to occur in either country.
Qantas also welcomed the news and announced that it would resume 122 return flights to New Zealand per week once the bubble came into operation.