A quarantine-free travel bubble between Australia and New Zealand will be established in the first quarter of 2021, which would benefit both sides amid the ongoing pandemic. 

This was described as the “first step” in normalising international travel by Australian health minister Greg Hunt. We understand it may take a few more weeks, but we are working constructively and patiently. New Zealand has been a great partner and I have previously spoken with my counterpart in New Zealand, they have done well through the pandemic,” Hunt pointed out.

However, being established, New Zealand must create a plan to see what will be done in case there is a resurgence in Australia. They will also need to identify the “safe zones”. 

Air New Zealand’s chief executive Greg Foran praised this move, saying, “Our teams are busy preparing for recommencing quarantine-free travel. Safety is obviously a big priority for our airline, and we’ve been working closely with governments, relevant agencies and airports on what is required to keep our customers and staff safe once travel opens up.”

Hunt continued to explain that this “just means more people getting to see their loved ones or people being able to take a well-earned break and that’s good for Australians, it is good for New Zealanders.”

Before the outbreak, Australia was New Zealand’s largest international visitor market.