New Zealand has decided to postpone its phased border reopening until February after concerns were raised over the rapid spread of the Omicron variant worldwide.
The nation had begun easing some of its restrictions around international travel after seeing its borders closed for nearly two years amid the pandemic.
Those arriving into the country that are citizens of New Zealand and coming from Australia were set to be allowed to do so from January 16 but this has been delayed until February, according to Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins. “There’s no doubt this is disappointing and will upset many holiday plans, but it’s important to set these changes out clearly today so they can have time to consider those plans.”
The stay in quarantine facilities is also set to be increased from one week to 10 days, with the pre-departure test required to enter New Zealand being reduced from 72 hours to 48 hours.
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