New Zealand’s borders fully reopened on Tuesday, but the return of international visitors and students is only expected to start with a trickle following the lifting of Covid-based travel restrictions.
New Zealand reported 52,538 cases of the coronavirus over the last seven days yet is ready to re-start welcoming back visitors.
The final phase of its borders reopening began at midnight local time on Sunday with the maritime border and all overseas visitors allowed to submit visa applications. However, Tourism New Zealand chief executive Rene de Monchy anticipates business picking up slowly compared to pre-Covid levels. “The return of international tourism is expected to take time as people across the globe gain travel confidence,” he said. “Tourism New Zealand is working hard to encourage visitation from key markets to boost the recovery of tourism and support the country’s economy.” —AFP
