Australia's foreign minister visiting NZ for first visit since pandemic began

April 22, 2021

Marise Payne and Nanaia Mahuta are expected to discuss strengthening Covid-19 support for NZ’s Pacific neighbours. (Source: Other)

Australia's foreign minister has touched down on New Zealand soil for the first face-to-face meeting with her New Zealand counterpart since the Covid-19 pandemic began.

Marise Payne will be welcomed by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta, marking the first ministerial travel under the new trans-Tasman bubble.

The travel bubble, which officially opened on Monday, is a move which comes more than a year after borders around the world snapped shut due to the pandemic.

Seven Sharp’s Lucas de Jong covers some of the most emotional moments from the day. (Source: Other)

The bubble arrangement means no quarantine for passengers, but travellers have been warned if new coronavirus cases emerge the bubble could temporarily come to a halt, potentially stranding those abroad.

Up for discussion during Payne's visit will be the shared interest in the Indo-Pacific, as well as steps to strengthen Covid-19 support for Australia and New Zealand's Pacific neighbours.

Payne will depart on Friday.

Jacinda Ardern said it could be a billion dollar boost to New Zealand’s economy. (Source: Other)

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