New Zealand drops all Covid restrictions
New Zealand has finally lifted all Covid-19-related travel restrictions marking ‘a milestone’ in its tourism recovery plans.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern ended vaccine requirements, as well as the need to self-test after arrival.
New Zealand also dropped mask-wearing rules, although individual facilities can still mandate them.
“It’s time to safely turn the page on our Covid-19 management, and live without the extraordinary measures we have previously used,” Ardern said.
“It marks a milestone in our response. Finally, rather than feeling that COVID dictates what happens to us, our lives, and our futures, we take back control.”
Masks rules will also end for international and domestic flights.
“Masks have played an important part in keeping customers, crew and communities safe during the Covid pandemic, but it’s time to say farewell,” Air New Zealand’s Chief Customer and Sales Leanne Geraghty said.
Air NZ said it will still provide masks to customers who wish to wear them.
New Zealand has vaccinated about 90% of citizens 12 years of age and older with at least two doses.
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