Prime Ministers hail ‘win-win’ agreement
New Zealand and Australia’s success in managing Covid-19 has made quarantine-free transTasman travel possible, a joint statement from the countries’ leaders said, as the travel bubble opens.
But there was a warning that the risks of quarantine-free travel would be under constant review amid the evolving global Covid-19 pandemic. Travellers would need to be prepared for possible disruption to travel arrangements at short notice, and to follow specific protocols before, during and after their travel, the joint statement from New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and her Australian counterpart Scott Morrison said.
The statement hailed the agreement as a world-leading arrangement that opens up travel while aiming to keep Covid-19 out of the community.
Both countries have robust processes in place to ensure travel can be undertaken safely, making quarantine-free travel possible, the statement said. Two-way travel across the Tasman would help drive the economic recovery for both countries while New Zealand and Australia continued to navigate the Covid-19 global pandemic, especially in the travel and tourism sectors.
‘‘Today’s milestone is a win-win for Australians and New Zealanders, boosting our economies while keeping our people safe and just in time for Anzac Day,’’ Morrison said. ‘‘Both countries have done a remarkable job in protecting our communities from Covid and twoway flights are an important step in our road out.’’
‘‘It is truly exciting to start quarantine-free travel with Australia. Be it returning family, friends or holidaymakers, New Zealand says welcome and enjoy yourself,’’ Ardern said. ‘‘The bubble marks a significant step in both countries’ reconnection with the world and it’s one we should all take a moment to be very proud of.’’
Information for travellers can be found on the Australian Smartraveller website and New Zealand’s Unite Against Covid-19 website.