The starting time for self-isolation of all passengers arriving in New Zealand from all countries except the Pacific Islands has been put back one hour to 1am tonight.

Board of Airline Representatives director Justin Tighe-Umbers said the extra hour meant that no arrivals would be affected tonight, providing time to set up systems for the first arrivals tomorrow.

He said both New Zealanders and overseas visitors would be allowed to board domestic flights to reach their intended destinations before being required to self-isolate.

Auckland Airport chief executive Adrian Littlewood said flights between Auckland and China have dropped from about 45 a week at this time last year to eight a week now.

He said no one yet knew what the impact of the self-isolation requirement for all non-Pacific arrivals would be, but it would clearly be “material”.

However Tighe-Umbers said airlines were expecting a short-term jump in travel in the next two weeks as New Zealanders come home earlier than planned and overseas visitors return sooner to their home countries.

He was aware of three extra trans-Tasman flights today to bring people in before the self-isolation rule comes into force.

Yesterday Ardern announced that any person from any country, excluding the Pacific islands, is now required to self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival to the country, and she encouraged all New Zealanders to avoid all non-essential travel overseas.

As well as affecting thousands of people's travel plans, the move is expected to significantly impact Kiwis' jobs and the New Zealand economy.

Grant advised customers to check the Air New Zealand Travel Alerts page for information before getting in touch.

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"We really appreciate the patience and understanding of all our customers at this difficult time," he said.

Air New Zealand is offering fare flexibility for customers affected by Covid-19 travel restrictions.

Customers with international flights affected by Covid-19 Government-imposed restrictions due to depart up until 31 March 2020 will be eligible to hold the value of their fare in credit for twelve months from the time of ticket purchase, receive a refund, or amend the date of their flight without change fees.

 

 

The need to self-isolate is affecting a pair of local MPs.

Green Party MP Chlöe Swarbrick travelled to Australia over the weekend and will self-isolate for 14 days when she returns to New Zealand.
"I have been overseas and as such will be following the protocols outlined by the Prime Minister," Swarbrick said today.

"These protocols were designed to keep everyone healthy. I do not have any symptoms, but I am registering my whereabouts with the Ministry of Health and will be following advice."
Green Party co-leader James Shaw said the party would support Swarbrick to work remotely.
"We have been in contact with Parliament's Speaker. Obviously Chlöe won't be coming to Parliament or attending any public events.
"Green MPs who are away from Wellington regularly video-conference into caucus meetings, so Chlöe will still be able to participate fully in the work of the Green Party.

"We'll miss Chlöe's presence in Parliament but I'm sure she'll be back before long."

NZ First MP and Minister Tracey Martin is also in self-isolation after coming into contact with infected Australian Minister Peter Dutton last week, though Martin has said she also has no Covid-19 symptoms.