New Zealand has reopened its borders to international travelers for the first time since the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic in March 2020. The country will now begin accepting all visitors, including those from visa-free countries, international students and cruise ship travelers.

The change in border settings marks the latest milestone for the country's reunification strategy. Prime minister Jacinda Ardern called it an “enormous moment”, adding it was part of a “cautious process”.

The country reopened its maritime border to cruise ships. However, proof of vaccination will be required from passengers.

The first cruise ship expected to arrive in New Zealand is the P&O Cruises Australia’s Pacific Explorer, scheduled to arrive in Auckland on August 12, 2022.

Cruise calls were worth more than NZ$500 million a year before the pandemic, of which NZ$356 million was spent on land.

The New Zealand government said: “This is great news to the tourism industry and economy as we approach spring and summer with people from the northern hemisphere booking their winter holidays. 

“We have heard optimistic messages from tourism operators who are ready to welcome back international visitors from all over the world.”