New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced on Wednesday, they will lift a temporary border around Auckland on December 15, reopening borders almost after four months.

Key quotes

“Aucklanders who have been vaccinated or tested will be able to reconnect with the rest of New Zealand in time for Christmas and summer.” 

“Aucklanders have faced restrictions for an extended period of time to keep the rest of New Zealand safe. But with increased rates of vaccination, it’s time to open up the ability to travel again.” 

It’s worth noting that Auckland, home to a third of New Zealand’s five million people, is close to achieving 90% of its eligible population being fully vaccinated.

Market reaction

NZD/USD has bounced off 0.6966 lows, cheering the re-opening optimism to now trade at 0.6993, up 0.04% on the day.