It’s time to cross the Tasman! As of 13 April, fully vaccinated Australian travellers can travel to New Zealand without needing to quarantine on arrival. New Zealand has also opened to travellers from over 60 countries. In this guide, we’ll share what you need to know before you go.
This article was last updated on 25 May 2022, and was correct at time of writing. For the latest information, check official government advice at Smartraveller.gov.au.
Safe Travel Zone information
- When can I travel to New Zealand?
- New Zealand border reopening plan
- What are the conditions for the new trans-Tasman travel bubble?
- What does the travel ban mean?
- Can I travel to New Zealand if I am a New Zealand citizen or resident?
- What about non citizens?
- Is it safe to fly?
- Where can I find more official information about NZ travel?
- Other useful COVID-19 travel resources
When can I travel to New Zealand?
As of April 13, Australian travellers who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 can travel to New Zealand. Read on for the details of what you need to know before you go, as well as New Zealand’s border opening plan before looking at options for car hire in New Zealand.
New Zealand border reopening plan
The New Zealand Government has announced a multi-step reopening plan for fully vaccinated travellers:
- As of 28 February, New Zealanders and other eligible travellers* in Australia are now able to enter New Zealand without entering mandatory quarantine. They must self-isolate on arrival.
- As of 13 March, New Zealanders and other eligible travellers from anywhere in the world will be able to enter New Zealand without entering mandatory quarantine. They will have to self-isolate on arrival. Working holiday visas will also be accepted on a rolling basis during this time.
- As of 13 April, vaccinated tourists from Australia can enter New Zealand without having to complete mandatory isolation.
- As of 2 May, travellers from visa-waiver countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Singapore, Japan, Canada and 50+ other countries will also be accepted into New Zealand.
- From July, the border opens to all New Zealand visa holders around the world.
New Zealand travellers who are vaccinated against COVID-19 may enter Australia without applying for an exemption. Quarantine and self isolation restrictions may still be in place depending on the state and territory.
What do I need to do before I travel to New Zealand
Now that New Zealand’s borders are open, these are the steps that must be met:
- All travellers entering New Zealand must show proof of vaccination against COVID-19.
- All travellers must take a PCR test within 48 hours or a rapid antigen test (RAT) with 24 hours of their departure to New Zealand, including travellers who have been vaccinated against COVID-19.
- All travellers must fill out a declaration form and disclose their travel history of the past 14 days.
- All travellers must take two RAT self tests on arrival, one on day 0/1 and on day 5/6.
- Passengers will arrive on green zone flights, booked with only fellow passengers from Australia or New Zealand. This means travellers will not be travelling with those repatriating or arriving from elsewhere overseas.
Because each country has the right to close their border at any time, flexibility is key when it comes to flights and accommodation.
Does Australia have a travel ban?
Australia’s general global travel ban lifted on 1 November 2021. Fully vaccinated visa holders and tourists are allowed to travel to Australia as of 21 February 2022.
At the moment, non-vaccinated travellers are not allowed to leave Australia for any non-essential reasons like going on a holiday. However, if you do have an essential reason, you will need to apply for permission to travel from the Department of Home Affairs and quarantine upon arrival into Australia.
Can I travel to New Zealand if I am a New Zealand citizen or resident?
New Zealand citizens, permanent residents and residents with valid travel conditions do not need to apply to New Zealand’s immigration authorities to travel home.
What about those who want to travel to New Zealand from outside of Australia?
The NZ border is currently open to travellers from over 60 countries. To find out if you qualify to apply for entry, you will need to visit Immigration New Zealand’s COVID-19 website.
How are airlines handling flights to New Zealand?
Following the announcement of the trans-Tasman travel bubble opening, major airlines like Air New Zealand, Qantas and Jetstar are offering increased flights between the two countries.
When you can fly to New Zealand, it’ll be some relief to know that the airlines are doing everything they can to reduce the risk of infection. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has specifically written up guidelines for companies to follow, both in the airport and onboard.
Luckily, there are also natural barriers between passengers thanks to the limited rate of mixing, HEPA filters, seatbacks, and reduced face-to-face interaction. The IATA is also requiring all passengers to wear masks while they fly.
Airlines like Air New Zealand are enacting physical distancing measures (families and travel groups can stay together). They are separating self check-in kiosks, encouraging online check-in, and have closed many lounge and valet services. Customers departing from Auckland Airport are mandated to wear masks, as are airline staff members. Expect increased cleanings and limited food options as the airline takes extra measures to decrease in person interaction. Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar have enacted similar health measures onboard their aircraft.
Hotels in Auckland and across the country each have their own rules.
Where can I find out more official NZ travel information?
- Smart Traveller – Run by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, this website provides users with the latest information and restrictions on overseas destinations.
- Immigration New Zealand – A resource managed by the New Zealand government that grants visas and offers up-to-date information on travel to and from New Zealand.
- Immigration New Zealand COVID-19 – A dedicated page within the Immigration New Zealand platform that covers all things to do with COVID-19 and entry into the country.
- COVID-19 New Zealand Government – This website provides overall information on the pandemic in New Zealand, including travel restrictions currently in place nationally.
- Department of Home Affairs – A government website that provides support and information for Australian citizens needing to travel or return home.
Other useful COVID-19 travel resources
- COVIDSafe App – An app that allows the government to identify people affected with the virus and alerts others who those affected may have been in contact with.
- Coronavirus Australia App – Publishes the latest government advice and information all to your phone.
Read more
- Is it safe to travel?
- The latest travel news: When can I travel?
- The most popular destinations and the latest travel rules
When you’re ready to start travelling again, Skyscanner can help you find flights, car hire options, and hotels. To start looking, simply go to our website or use our mobile app.
