New Zealanders allowed to return home

New Zealanders will be able to return home from Australia from February 28 and from overseas from March 14. The borders will open to Australians by July and the rest of the world by October. Air New Zealand Chief Customer and Sales Officer Leanne Geraghty said, “today’s announcement is incredibly exciting news for New Zealanders overseas. Having the certainty they will be touching down on home soil and reuniting with friends and whānau in just over three weeks will come as a relief. “We expect to have more than 300 flights available between New Zealand and Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast for the month of March alone. Once we have a clearer view as to the level of demand, we will adjust the schedule accordingly, but we're confident there will be seats available for those who need them.” “As expected, we have seen strong demand following the announcement with our first flights on the 28 February almost sold out.” The airline’s international vaccination policy came into effect on February 1, with all customers traveling on Air New Zealand’s international network now required to show proof of full vaccination. In line with the Government’s requirements announced this week, all customers will also need to provide evidence of a negative Covid-19 test prior to departure and must complete a period of home isolation on arrival into New Zealand. The airline is working through the required changes to their international schedule to align with March 14 for New Zealanders who are wanting to return home from the rest of the world. “We’ve kept our operation ready for this. In the last few months, it’s been great to bring back some of our pilots, with some cabin crew returning to training from February 28, as we anticipate a return to global travel. We’re looking forward to welcoming the tens of thousands of Kiwis who will be making plans to board our aircraft soon.” Air New Zealand’s international flying checklist:

1. You’ll need to show your International Vaccine Certificate to board an Air New Zealand international flight. This is different to the My Vaccine Pass Kiwis use for domestic travel.
2. You may need a negative pre-departure test to enter your destination. Make sure you check the country entry requirements.
3. Travel declarations vary from country to country. Check what you need and fill these out.
4. Locate your passport and check the expiry date. You’ll need at least six months before expiry to travel.
5. Allow plenty of time, we recommend around three hours, to check-in and verify your travel documents.