To help you prepare for your trip to New Zealand, we have outlined key information to be aware of, as well as COVID-19 safety measures for when you are here. We look forward to welcoming you to Queenstown.
Our region is currently at COVID-19 Protection Framework (traffic light) setting Orange. The latest information on what this means for locals and visitors is available here: https://covid19.govt.nz/traffic-lights.
We have also outlined below some of the health guidelines to be aware of during your stay – please note this isn’t an exhaustive list and guidance is subject to change. For the latest COVID-19 guidance, please also refer to the New Zealand government’s dedicated website: https://covid19.govt.nz/
Travelling to New Zealand
New Zealand’s international borders are currently open to 60 visa waiver countries. Before travelling to New Zealand, make sure you’re eligible for travel and meet the visa requirements.
New Zealand will start welcoming international visitors from all countries from 11:59pm Sunday 31 July 2022. To find out more about travel requirements to New Zealand, including regulations, visa requirements and health and safety guidelines visit: https://covid19.govt.nz/international-travel/.
If you’re from one of the visa waiver countries currently approved for entry, there are a few steps to follow before you can travel to New Zealand:
- Check you meet vaccination requirements
Most international travellers must be vaccinated to enter New Zealand. For more information, please read the COVID-19 vaccine requirements for travel.
- Get a pre-departure test
Current pre-departure testing requirements apply until 31 July 2022. For information on what is needed, please read the COVID-19 pre-departure tests to enter New Zealand.
- Complete the Traveller Declaration
All travellers must complete the official New Zealand Traveller Declaration before travelling to New Zealand by air. Make sure you meet all the requirements and complete this declaration before you check in.
Queenstown International Airport
COVID-19 safety measures once you’re in New Zealand
- Rapid antigen test upon arrival
Vaccinated and eligible travellers entering New Zealand must take two rapid antigen tests (RAT) after they arrive. You must report your RAT results, even if you test negative. Find out that you need to do here.
- Get to know New Zealand’s ‘traffic light’ system
New Zealand is operating in the COVID-19 Protection Framework (‘traffic light system’) to minimise the impact of COVID-19. Find out more here.
- Stay safe while travelling around New Zealand
Protect yourself from COVID-19 when travelling around New Zealand by keeping up healthy habits including wearing a face mask, and washing your hands or using hand sanitiser.
Where to go for more information
The best sources of information relating to COVID-19 and travel are:
- Covid19.govt.nz - the primary site for any COVID-19 related updates, including changes to the traffic light system, border-related information, and testing.
- Immigration.govt.nz - a useful website for immigration and visa related information.