Unvaccinated New Zealand citizens, and those who are eligible to travel to New Zealand do not need to enter MIQ or to self-isolate.

The announcement was made on the MIQ website on Friday.

It said “this change takes effect from 11.59pm on Friday 18 March.”

“This also means that those eligible unvaccinated arrivals who entered MIQ prior to 11.59pm on Friday 18 March will be released from MIQ.”

The statement said “minimum vaccination requirements for travel to New Zealand will apply to non-New Zealand citizens, including permanent residents, unless they have an exemption.”

“Travellers entering New Zealand will still be required to undertake rapid antigen tests on days 0/1 and 5/6 and report the results. If a traveller tests positive, they will need to undertake a PCR test, and isolate in accordance with the requirements for positive COVID-19 cases.”

“Managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ) will used in limited circumstances, by some refugees, arrivals from Afghanistan, maritime crew, and some international aircrew.”

“It was announced last week that MIQ will reduce to 4 facilities by the end of June 2022. This change to the border entry requirements further reflects the reduced demand for MIQ as we reopen our borders.”