New Zealand, a global standout in its success at fighting the coronavirus, unveiled a cautious plan for reopening on Thursday, vowing to retain its go

New Zealand, After Holding Virus at Bay, Unveils Reopening Strategy

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2021-08-13 21:00:14

New Zealand, a global standout in its success at fighting the coronavirus, unveiled a cautious plan for reopening on Thursday, vowing to retain its goal of zero coronavirus cases even as it begins to unseal its borders.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said New Zealand’s border restrictions would ease starting early next year, allowing vaccinated travelers from low-risk countries to enter without having to quarantine. The country’s borders have been closed to almost all foreign travelers since March 2020.

In a new program beginning in October, vaccinated New Zealanders returning to the country may also be able to self-isolate at home and skip the 14-day hotel quarantine that is currently required.

Ms. Ardern warned, however, that the country’s borders would not return to their pre-pandemic norm, when passengers did not face vaccination or testing requirements.

“Just like after 9/11, the border will never be the same after Covid,” she said. “Things can change, but that doesn’t mean we can’t adapt to them in a way that eventually feels normal again.”