New Zealand will allow entry of some maritime vessels, as it looks to open up its economy after lifting all COVID-19 restrictions. Cruise ships and people travelling for leisure, however, will continue to be banned from entering the country.
According to Reuters, New Zealand lifted all social and economic restrictions except border controls after declaring it was free of COVID-19.
New Zealand is now looking to restart its economy that was battered by the lockdown. More specifically, it will allow entry to those arriving at the maritime border, where there is a compelling need for the vessel to travel to New Zealand.
Border restrictions will also no longer apply to replacement cargo ship crew arriving in New Zealand by air and transferring straight to a cargo ship set to leave its shores.
This will help keep the shipping routes open, said the statement.
In addition, two syndicates challenging for the America’s Cup have also been granted exemptions to enter New Zealand and begin their preparations for the event that will be held in Auckland early next year.