Fully vaccinated travellers from visa waiver countries can now travel to the destination without needing to isolate on arrival, providing they show evidence of a negative test taken prior to departure. A negative antigen test is still required on arrival and on day 5/6. 
 
Air New Zealand’s NZ5 was the first flight to arrive from LA. Passengers were greeted with a unique display of manaakitanga (hospitality or kindness/respect) via traditional waiata (Maori songs) performed by Haka the Legend.
 
Tourism New Zealand’s chief executive, Rene de Monchy, said: “It’s an exciting day to see international visitors back on New Zealand shores.

“We have been looking forward to extending our warm welcome in airports across the country through gestures like a Maori waiata.”

Before Covid-19, international visitors contributed NZD $17.2 billion each year towards New Zealand’s economy. 
 
The tourism board said there has always been strong demand for travel to New Zealand from the UK, and prior to the Covid-19 interruption to travel, the UK was the fourth largest international visitor market, comprising 6% of total arrivals.