One Step Closer: Improved Travel Connectivity Between Australia and New Zealand
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We know how some love to visit New Zealand, whether it's to enjoy the majestic beauty of its landscapes or to reconnect with loved ones who have made the Land of the Long White Cloud their home.
The good news is that travelling between our beloved Kangaroo nation and our neighbour across the ditch is on the way to becoming easier!
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and New Zealand's Chris Hipkins revealed that they will set up a 12-month expert group.
This group's mission is to explore ways to make travel across the Tasman Sea more convenient, and will share its report by the end of June 2024.
'We have not looked at a trans-Tasman passport, but what we're looking at though is making a seamless experience of going through from country to country,' Albanese said from Wellington.
‘Before you get on a plane in either country, it is already recognised that you are OK to come in, and therefore you can just go through smart gates in a seamless way and in a timely way as well.’
Complementing this effort, it's been announced that New Zealand citizens will now have a direct pathway to Australian citizenship as of July 1.
Those who have been living in Australia since 2001 will be eligible to apply directly for citizenship without the need to obtain permanent residence first.
Additionally, Kiwi children born in Australia will automatically become citizens at birth, eliminating the current waiting period until they turn 10.
This rule change is expected to benefit over 670,000 New Zealand residents who call Australia home, with 350,000 already eligible for this new opportunity. New Zealanders can now call Australia home more easily!
Albanese said, ‘I am so pleased that as of this month, it is now easier for New Zealanders to call Australia home to become Australian citizens. This is a change that was long overdue. It was the right thing to do, and it was the first thing to do.’
Not only will citizenship become easier, but Albanese, in association with Hipkins, has announced a long-term relationship roadmap stretching all the way to 2035.
The roadmap is built upon five pillars: sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous economies; security and resilience; active partnerships in the Pacific; upholding shared principles and values; and the well-being of the countries' peoples.
They highlight that we live in a world where we need friends, partnerships, and allies like New Zealand and hope to harness our collective strengths for the good of our countries.
Albanese highlighted that the roadmap recognises the significant asset of the trans-Tasman relationship for both countries to face upcoming challenges and capitalise on opportunities in the coming decades.
The roadmap also outlines the strategy to harness the collective strengths for the mutual benefit of the nations, their people, and the broader region.
For nature lovers, one of the most popular destinations is undoubtedly the Fiordland National Park. With its breathtaking fjords, alpine peaks, and a range of birds and seals, it's no coincidence that it's often called the 'Eighth Wonder of the World'.
Another crowd favourite is the vibrant city of Wellington, hailed for its budding culinary scene and innovative arts sector.
The city also houses Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand's national museum. This cultural hub tells the story of the land and people of Aotearoa, New Zealand—so, history buffs, here's your chance to dive into a rich, culturally immersive experience.
If relaxation and rejuvenation are on the cards, then Rotorua's thermal spas are just the ticket.
Feeling a bit more adventurous? Queenstown is the place for you!
Known as the ‘Adventure Capital of the World’, its thrilling activities, such as bungee jumping, skydiving, and jet boating, will add a spike of adrenaline to your trip.
It's never too late to create a bucket list, and travelling to New Zealand should definitely feature on it. Remember, adventures don't have to stop when you hit the golden years!
So there you have it! As the wheels are set in motion to make traversing between these two countries a cakewalk, let's raise a toast to easier travel and exciting times ahead. Get your bags ready, and see you in NZ, mates!
Members, what are your thoughts on this change? Do you think it will strengthen the relationship between the two countries?
The good news is that travelling between our beloved Kangaroo nation and our neighbour across the ditch is on the way to becoming easier!
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and New Zealand's Chris Hipkins revealed that they will set up a 12-month expert group.
This group's mission is to explore ways to make travel across the Tasman Sea more convenient, and will share its report by the end of June 2024.
Australia and New Zealand share a strong and friendly relationship, characterised by cultural ties, historical connections, and mutual interests. Image by rparmly from unsplash
'We have not looked at a trans-Tasman passport, but what we're looking at though is making a seamless experience of going through from country to country,' Albanese said from Wellington.
‘Before you get on a plane in either country, it is already recognised that you are OK to come in, and therefore you can just go through smart gates in a seamless way and in a timely way as well.’
Complementing this effort, it's been announced that New Zealand citizens will now have a direct pathway to Australian citizenship as of July 1.
Those who have been living in Australia since 2001 will be eligible to apply directly for citizenship without the need to obtain permanent residence first.
Additionally, Kiwi children born in Australia will automatically become citizens at birth, eliminating the current waiting period until they turn 10.
This rule change is expected to benefit over 670,000 New Zealand residents who call Australia home, with 350,000 already eligible for this new opportunity. New Zealanders can now call Australia home more easily!
Albanese said, ‘I am so pleased that as of this month, it is now easier for New Zealanders to call Australia home to become Australian citizens. This is a change that was long overdue. It was the right thing to do, and it was the first thing to do.’
Not only will citizenship become easier, but Albanese, in association with Hipkins, has announced a long-term relationship roadmap stretching all the way to 2035.
The roadmap is built upon five pillars: sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous economies; security and resilience; active partnerships in the Pacific; upholding shared principles and values; and the well-being of the countries' peoples.
They highlight that we live in a world where we need friends, partnerships, and allies like New Zealand and hope to harness our collective strengths for the good of our countries.
Albanese highlighted that the roadmap recognises the significant asset of the trans-Tasman relationship for both countries to face upcoming challenges and capitalise on opportunities in the coming decades.
The roadmap also outlines the strategy to harness the collective strengths for the mutual benefit of the nations, their people, and the broader region.
New Zealand - Popular Destinations and Activities
Oh, the places you’ll visit and the activities you’ll enjoy in New Zealand! This magical country is a treasure trove for anyone, with charms that attract the young at heart.For nature lovers, one of the most popular destinations is undoubtedly the Fiordland National Park. With its breathtaking fjords, alpine peaks, and a range of birds and seals, it's no coincidence that it's often called the 'Eighth Wonder of the World'.
Fiordland National Park is known around the world for its breathtaking collection of fiords, which ironically are mostly named as sounds. Source: fiordland.org
Another crowd favourite is the vibrant city of Wellington, hailed for its budding culinary scene and innovative arts sector.
The city also houses Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand's national museum. This cultural hub tells the story of the land and people of Aotearoa, New Zealand—so, history buffs, here's your chance to dive into a rich, culturally immersive experience.
If relaxation and rejuvenation are on the cards, then Rotorua's thermal spas are just the ticket.
Feeling a bit more adventurous? Queenstown is the place for you!
Known as the ‘Adventure Capital of the World’, its thrilling activities, such as bungee jumping, skydiving, and jet boating, will add a spike of adrenaline to your trip.
It's never too late to create a bucket list, and travelling to New Zealand should definitely feature on it. Remember, adventures don't have to stop when you hit the golden years!
So there you have it! As the wheels are set in motion to make traversing between these two countries a cakewalk, let's raise a toast to easier travel and exciting times ahead. Get your bags ready, and see you in NZ, mates!
Members, what are your thoughts on this change? Do you think it will strengthen the relationship between the two countries?
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