New Zealand's Government extended (19-Jan-2021) pre-departure testing to all passengers to New Zealand, except those from exempted countries, effective 25-Jan-2021. New Zealand's Minister for COVID-19 Response, Education and Public Service Chris Hipkins said due to the high rates of infection "most global air routes are of critical concern for the foreseeable future". From 08-Feb-2021, all non-exempt passengers arriving in New Zealand without evidence of a negative approved test or medical certificate would incur an infringement offence fee or a fine not exceeding NZD1000 (USD711.9). Countries and territories exempt from pre-departure testing are:
- Antarctica;
- Australia;
- Cook Islands;
- Federated States of Micronesia;
- Fiji;
- Kiribati;
- Marshall Islands;
- Nauru;
- New Caledonia;
- Niue;
- Palau;
- Samoa;
- Solomon Islands;
- Tokelau;
- Tonga;
- Tuvalu;
- Vanuatu;
- Wallis and Futuna. [more - original PR]