Covid-related border closings and restrictions are finally lifting in New Zealand, along with Tahiti, Fiji, and Australia. In fact, the four countries have coordinated arrival procedures for owners, crew, and guests. Jointly, they are providing information on a new website, Superyacht New Zealand. It’s their way making things easier as the South Pacific reopens for superyachts.
Officially, starting in August, the four countries simultaneously will lift their restrictions. From that point, arriving yachts can stay for two or more years in New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Australia on a revolving basis. The reason is quite simple. Yachting-industry professionals and tourism officials there recognize that visitors like to plan trips in one area, then move on to another of the regional countries. It’s because of the long distance from the traditional Caribbean, Mediterranean, and American cruising grounds.
Therefore, once the South Pacific reopens its sea border, you can start with Tahiti or Fiji. Their summer season spans May to October. Once October arrives, you can move on to Australia or New Zealand. Conveniently, their summer cruising season starts that month and runs through May. Whether you arrive on your own yacht or you book a charter, the four countries’ entry and charter rules are pretty similar.
Visiting the region affords you the opportunity to experience diverse cultures and cruising grounds. New Zealand, for instance, is an adventurer’s paradise, a.k.a. the adrenaline capital of the world. Meanwhile, wildlife living nowhere else on earth inhabits Australia. Secluded white-sandy beaches dot the quiet atolls throughout the South Pacific, too. And, of course, you can visit bustling cities in each country.
Venturing so far from home may raise concerns about maintenance or other important support. To that end, the Superyacht New Zealand website features a section educating you on regional marine companies like service and refit specialists. The same section additionally lists yacht agents who know the countries. This provides peace of mind if you plan staying multiple seasons.
Finally, the Superyacht New Zealand website has an entry-rules summary for each of the South Pacific countries. A dedicated, downloadable guide further contains facts for visiting New Zealand.
Superyacht New Zealand superyachtnewzealand.co.nz
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