Visiting New Zealand during the Covid-19 pandemic: What you need to know before your trip

Planning a trip to New Zealand? Here's what you should expect if you're traveling during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Essentials

New Zealand became a model for successfully managing Covid-19 early on. Its swift lockdown and stringent border control measures helped keep the virus under control.

New Zealand's zero-Covid approach made it one of the most isolated countries in the world. However, this changed as the country shifted its focus towards vaccination and adapting to living with the virus.

On July 31, New Zealand fully reopened its air and sea borders to travelers from all corners of the globe.

What awaits you

New Zealand’s stunning landscapes are legendary. Arthur’s Pass National Park, with its towering peaks and lush valleys, is perfect for ‘tramping’—the local term for a long, immersive hike. Cape Reinga and Ninety Mile Beach offer breathtaking sea vistas at the northern tip of the North Island. At the same time, Maori culture is deeply woven into every aspect of life in the country. Rent an RV, and you’ll find plenty of untouched corners to explore in this enchanting land.

Who is eligible to visit

Travelers can now enter New Zealand from anywhere worldwide, depending on their vaccination status and visa eligibility.

New Zealand’s maritime borders are now open to all vessels, including cruise ships and private yachts.

Entry Guidelines

The following individuals are allowed to enter New Zealand from any location and can self-test upon arrival:

• New Zealand citizens and residents, regardless of their vaccination status

• Vaccinated Australian citizens and permanent residents; unvaccinated Australian citizens who reside in New Zealand

• Holders of valid work and student visas; vaccinated travelers with a border exception; those on working holiday schemes; travelers from visa-waiver countries who are vaccinated; travelers arriving under the Accredited Employer Work Visa category; individuals applying for work visas in New Zealand; and vaccinated tourists, visitors, and students

For more information, visit the government website.

US CDC Travel Advisory:

Level 3: High. Ensure your Covid-19 vaccinations are up to date before planning your trip to New Zealand.

Helpful Resources

Official government page on border restrictions

Self-isolation facility booking page

NZ COVID Tracer mobile app

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