Covid 19 coronavirus: Niue and NZ discuss quarantine-free travel

Discussions have begun on opening a quarantine-free travel bubble between NZ and Niue. Photo / Supplied

By RNZ

The Premier of Niue, Dalton Tagelagi, has confirmed discussions between his government and New Zealand on quarantine-free travel has started.

This week, Tagelagi and New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern reaffirmed the desire of both governments to enter into a quarantine-free travel arrangement, only when it is safe to do so and when the necessary health, border controls and other protocols have been met.

Niue government minister, Dalton Tagelagi. Photo / RNZ

Discussions between Niue health officials, border agencies and their counterparts in New Zealand is in progress and will continue until all parties are satisfied that protocols are in place to ensure the protection of public health.

Technical support to Niue will be provided by New Zealand agencies in addition to the ongoing support from the World Health Organisation, the Secretariat of the Pacific Community and other Partners to enable quarantine-free travel .

The arrangement between both governments will need to be confirmed by their respective Cabinet, before a commencement date is set.