New Zealand cancels pre-entry testing

New Zealand had isolated itself from the outside world for a long time after the outbreak of the epidemic. Since last month, visitors from 60 visa-exempt countries – including Germany, Austria and Switzerland – have been allowed to re-enter. There is now also a new simplification in testing requirements.

From next Monday, June 20, 2022, travelers to New Zealand will no longer have to submit a negative COVID-19 test on entry. The rule is thus canceled a month earlier than planned. “We have taken a cautious and incremental approach in reopening our borders,” said Minister Aisha Feral, who is responsible for combating Covid-19. «1 news». “Our strategy has worked and it is therefore safe to raise pre-departure testing requirements much earlier than planned.”

However, visitors must continue to take a self-test after arrival and another on the fifth day of their stay. The list of visa exempt countries, which was previously limited to 60 countries, will no longer apply from July 31. Then New Zealand will reopen its borders to travelers from around the world for the first time – two months earlier than initially planned.

New Zealand Tourism Minister Stuart Nash welcomes earlier opening steps: “Accessed entry now comes just in time for the upcoming winter season and school holidays in Australia. I know how much the tour operators in this country are looking forward to opening.” Now entry will be easier and cheaper again. Of those traveling abroad, he says, “New Zealand is open again, and we are ready to welcome you.”