Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer, Greg Foran, says the carrier is ready and waiting to reconnect friends and whānau from Australia from April 13 and visa waiver countries from May 2, following the easing of border restrictions by the Government.

From 11:59pm on April 12, fully vaccinated Australian citizens and permanent residents can enter New Zealand without having to undertake managed isolation and less than a month later, from 11.59pm on May 1, visitors from visa waiver countries such as the UK, US, Japan, Germany, Korea and Singapore, and those from other countries with a valid visitor visa will be welcomed back.

Foran says it’s the day New Zealand has been waiting for.

“It’s no secret the past two years have been extremely turbulent for people,” he says. “There’s a real buzz today. New Zealand holds a special place in many people’s hearts, whether they’re a Kiwi or visitor, touching down on New Zealand soil will be a moment to remember.

“It’s also been incredibly hard for our tourism operators around the country. Today’s announcement will help them get back to what they do best – welcoming international visitors to Aotearoa.

“Flights across the Tasman have been particularly popular, especially over the Easter period where we have added over 90 flights to keep up with demand over that period.

“Pre-COVID-19, Australia was the largest tourism market for both our airline and New Zealand.

“We know a lot of tourism operators have been missing international visitors so we’re looking forward to playing our role in New Zealand’s recovery.

“On our long-haul network, we’re seeing particular interest in journeys from North America around the July holiday period.

“It’s a sign that tourists still have New Zealand at the top of their bucket list,” Foran says.

The airline has more than 50 flights per week on its 15 international routes and will adjust capacity to meet demand in the coming months as New Zealand heads into the winter season.

With border restrictions starting to ease, Foran says the airline is also thrilled to begin to rebuild its aircrew whānau.

In the six months since October 2021, Air New Zealand has rehired around 700 flight attendants and pilots with more opportunities on the horizon over the next six months when international passenger flying starts to increase.