Information found in this article is correct at the time of publication. Note that travel restrictions may change due to the ongoing pandemic.
Was your long-awaited trip to New Zealand cut short due to the suspended quarantine travel in September 2021? Luckily, the Australian and New Zealand travel bubble is here to make a strong comeback!
The future of travel is looking bright, with the government set to give the New Zealand travel bubble an update by late November. If you’re planning to visit Middle Earth, you can get ready as early as possible.To help you plan your trip, here’s everything you need to know about the New Zealand travel bubble:
When will New Zealand open its borders to Australians?
Missed hopping on a plane to discover new places? Now you get to with the New Zealand travel bubble!
Many of you may be wondering if you can still travel to New Zealand, especially with the suspension of the New Zealand travel bubble with Australia in September due to the rise in Delta variant cases. However, things are looking up as it was meant to last for only eight weeks. As of the moment, NZ citizens in Australia can travel back to New Zealand quarantine-free.
Is it safe to travel to New Zealand?
New Zealand is considered one of the safest countries in the world! - Image credits Matthew Buchanan on Unsplash
74% of the eligible New Zealand population are already partially vaccinated against COVID-19. Meanwhile, 66% are fully vaccinated. These rates are significantly larger than the world aggregate of 52% partial vaccination. With the rates projected to increase, it's considered safe, primarily upon full implementation of the New Zealand travel bubble.
Travellers will also arrive on green zone flights, meaning you will only be flying with passengers from New Zealand and Australia.
Do I have to be vaccinated?
Vaccination is required when travelling to New Zealand. - Image credits: Freepik
Only individuals vaccinated against COVID-19 may enter New Zealand with proof of complete vaccination. However, children under 12 years old or those with medical exemptions may be absolved. Take note, however, that masks are still required on flights. You also need to participate in contact tracing by downloading the NZ COVID Tracer app upon arrival in New Zealand.
Do I need a COVID test?
Make sure to get your COVID-19 PCR test before your trip to New Zealand!
Before departing to the famous Lord of the Rings filming site, you need to secure a COVID-19 PCR test within 72 hours from your flight. Vaccinated individuals are also required to take the test. To be allowed entry in New Zealand, you must not have tested positive in the past 14 days.
Is quarantine required?
Once Australia to New Zealand travel bubble suspension is lifted, fully vaxxed Aussie’s with negative COVID-19 PCR tests will no longer need mandatory quarantine. However, you would need a declaration stating you’ve only been to Australia or New Zealand to enforce the New Zealand travel bubble further.
Where to get flights from Australia to New Zealand?
Missed flights? Luckily there are several airlines ready to take you to NZ! - Image credits Troy Mortier on Unsplash
Several international airlines operate New Zealand international travel, including Qantas, Air New Zealand, Virgin Australia, Singapore Airlines, and more.
How long is the flight from Australia to New Zealand?
Get ready for a three to six-hour flight to New Zealand! - Image credits Austin Distel on Unsplash
Being neighbours with New Zealand means flights can go as short as three hours from Sydney to Auckland. Meanwhile, the longest flights are those coming from Perth, which lasts up to six hours.
What attractions should I visit in New Zealand?
New Zealand is known for being the setting for The Lord of the Rings franchise. Aside from visiting film sets, the country is also famous for its outdoor adventures and other attractions. Here are the top destinations to visit and experience during the New Zealand travel bubble:
Hobbiton Movie Set
Go on the Hobbiton Movie Set Tour, where the movies come to life! - Image credits @hobbitontours on Instagram
Don’t miss the chance to visit the Hobbiton Movie Set during your trip to New Zealand. For the best experience take this guided tour, where you’ll walk through two acres of The Shire as you learn about the beloved films. To cap it all off, you’ll also enjoy a banquet feast at the Green Dragon dining room!
Can’t get enough of the Lord of the Rings? Check out 8 Lord of the Rings filming locations you shouldn’t miss when in NZ!
International Antarctic Centre
Have a fun day of discovery at the International Antarctic Centre
If Christchurch is your destination of choice, you have to visit the International Antarctic Centre next to the airport. Go on an expedition to Antarctica without an arduous and strenuous journey and discover all about the icy continent right in Christchurch! Experience all the interactive exhibits and attractions, including the Antarctic Storm simulation.
Rotorua Canopy Tour Zipline Forest Adventure
Experience the forest canopy like never before in Rotorua! - Image credits @rotoruacanopytours on Instagram
Channel your inner Tarzan as you explore the forest canopy on the Rotorua Canopy Tour Zipline Forest Adventure. Here you can experience hundreds of metres in ziplines and a 50-metre high cliff walk. Immerse in nature like never before and add a dash of thrill on this canopy tour!
Want to visit more? Check out our list of 12 top-rated New Zealand landmarks!
Planning a romantic escapade with your beau in NZ? Here are the Top 10 most romantic getaways in New Zealand you should try!
Where can I find out more official travel information?
Get more information on the New Zealand travel bubble through the NZ Government’s website and the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs’ website.
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