New Zealand has received tourists from more than 50 countries for the first time in more than two years after the removal of most restrictions on travel across borders, according to the Associated Press, citing BTA.
The country is known for its breathtaking scenery and “adventure tourism”, such as tarzan jumping and skiing. Prior to the pandemic, it received more than 3 million tourists annually, generating about 20 percent of foreign revenue and 5 percent of the economy. But in 2020, Wellington imposed some of the world’s toughest restrictions on the admission of foreigners, ending international tourism.
The spread of the omicron option and the vaccination of more than 80% of the country’s five million people have led to the gradual lifting of restrictions. New Zealand began accepting tourists from Australia three weeks ago and today welcomes travelers from nearly 60 countries with which it has visa-free travel agreements, including many European countries.
Most tourists from India, China and other countries who do not have such agreements are still not allowed into the country. They must be vaccinated and tested for coronavirus upon arrival.