The much-awaited Australia-New Zealand travel bubble has finally been launched. This means that visitors will no longer have to quarantine on arrival. On Monday, thousands of passengers flew between the two countries as both nations have successfully contained Coronavirus outbreaks. The infection rates are also low in these countries thanks to the strict restrictions.
Numerous passengers were seen at Australian airports waiting to board their flights to various parts of New Zealand on Monday. The airport witnessed several emotions, there were tears of joy, and anticipation of meeting loved ones after months.
New Zealand travellers were allowed to enter most Australian states from October 2020. There were no quarantine rules for them. However, the same was not reciprocated amid sporadic Coronavirus outbreaks.
If someone wishes to travel under the new travel bubble, the rule is that passengers must spend 14 days before departure in either Australia or New Zealand. Also they must not be waiting for their COVID-19 results, or should not have any virus symptoms, among other rules.
New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Adern told local reporters, “The bubble marks a significant step in New Zealand’s reconnection with the world and it is one that we should all take a moment to be very, very proud of.”
Since the beginning of the pandemic, Australia has recorded more than 29500 COVID-19 cases and 910 deaths. On the other hand, New Zealand has recorded only 2200 confirmed cases and 26 deaths.