Tourism operators say they're in limbo, until a trans-Tasman bubble date is set in stone.

The Government won't be making an announcement on when the quarantine-free flights will start, until April 6th.

Jacinda Ardern says they need to meet criteria around contact-tracing for Australian visitors, and suitable systems for airlines and airports before a bubble could open. 

Tourism Industry Aotearoa chief executive Chris Roberts says they understand safety's paramount, but delays are frustrating.

He says they would've liked a firm date because without that it's difficult for businesses to plan and accept bookings.

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