New Zealand reopened its border with Australia after about a year, welcoming back overseas visitors. Tourism New Zealand, in collaboration with Air New Zealand, M?ori Tourism, Wellington Tourism, and Wellington Airport, welcomed those on the first return flight to New Zealand. Air New Zealand's first travel bubble flight (Quarantine Free flight) arrived at Wellington Airport at 10 a.m. (Korean time) on April 19, on a journey from Sydney to Wellington.
Welcome Whanau and the Tiaki Promise are welcoming events featuring a 12x250m mural at Wellington Airport that expresses New Zealand’s warm hospitality and protection for arriving planes and passengers. The Welcome Whanau event centered around the values of Manaakitanga (hospitality and care), Tiaki (preserving and protecting nature), and Kaitiakitanga (guardianship). Additionally, a reunion space was provided for passengers, and a special arrival runway was created. The arrival runway was designed with the Tiaki values of protecting New Zealand’s nature. The Tiaki Promise, which cares for the future while protecting New Zealand’s land, sea, and culture, conveys a warm welcome to everyone arriving in New Zealand. This runway banner will be displayed at Wellington Airport for about three weeks starting April 19.
The reconnection between New Zealand and Australia through the travel bubble flight marked a historically significant moment, allowing visitors from Australia to reunite with friends and family after a year. It well represents the Tiaki Promise to protect New Zealand’s environment, culture, and people for the future.
Renee de Montigny, Chief Executive of Tourism New Zealand, said, “Welcoming the first overseas visitors marks a positive step toward economic recovery. We hope that everyone arriving at airports across New Zealand feels the warm welcome of the country. Tourism New Zealand looks forward to welcoming more visitors and introducing the Tiaki Promise.”
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