Since quarantine has to be pre-booked and there are limits on availability, there have been inevitable delays and disappointment. The ICCPR is part of the reason we have the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990. Thirdly, there are rights that flow from having a robust economy, including the right to an adequate standard of living. Their right to return includes the right to be in a safer and better environment. So, yes, there is a right to return — but it is a right that can be delayed to protect those already here.

Source: New Zealand Herald January 26, 2021 21:51 UTC