Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern told a press conference that citizens and permanent residents can still return, but their options are running out as many commercial airlines are cancelling flights. "Today’s decision stops any tourist, or temporary visa holder such as students or temporary workers, from coming to and entering into New Zealand," the prime minister said. New Zealand so far has 28 cases of coronavirus infection, but no deaths. The new border restrictions also apply to South Pacific countries, which were previously exempted from some travel restrictions. Ardern acknowledged the bans will have an impact on the economy but it was needed to stop the spread of the virus.

Source: bd News24 March 19, 2020 06:00 UTC