The Cook Islands Cabinet met today and approved the continuation of the air border closure for inwards passenger travel, with exemptions, which no longer include 14 days supervised quarantine on arrival.
This will be effective from 11:59pm tonight – Thursday 29 October 2020 (CKT) until further notice.
A revised travel advisory will be posted to the COVID-19 website www.covid19.gov.ck
Prime Minister Mark Brown noted “Cabinet continues to monitor the COVID-19 situation in New Zealand. The requirement for returning passengers to undertake 14 days supervised quarantine on arrival has been lifted. This requirement, which has been in place for the last 8 weeks was lifted as a reflection of the improving situation in New Zealand.
“To that end can I add that talks between our officials and their counterparts in New Zealand regarding a quarantine free travel arrangement between our two countries are progressing well. I am hopeful that in the not too distant future we will once again be able to welcome New Zealand holiday makers to our paradise, and returning Cook Islanders back home to visit their anau and friends, without the need for supervised isolation on their return to New Zealand.”
Exemptions will only be granted to passengers who meet the following criteria:
- Cook Islanders (as verified via Cook Islands Status stamp)
- Permanent Residents of the Cook Islands
- Cook Islands work permit holders
- Cook Islands resident permit holders
Intending travellers still need to comply with the following health requirements:
- Provision of a negative COVID-19 test result. Test to be taken within 96 hours of departure from Auckland
- Completed exit health clearance from Auckland International Airport
Intending passengers must also have spent at least the last 14 days in New Zealand prior to entry into the Cook Islands.
Te Marae Ora and Cook Islands Immigration will be liaising directly with those travellers affected by today’s decisions.
ENDS: Enquiries to Jaewynn McKay +682 55486; jaewynn.mckay@wovenpacific.com