NZ Airports welcome trans-Tasman improvements

The New Zealand Airports Association (NZ Airports) today welcomed the announcement by the Australian and New Zealand Prime Ministers of proposed changes to the trans-Tasman border to streamline border processing for passengers.

NZ Airports Chief Executive Kevin Ward said, "We see the measures announced, such as the expansion of the Smart Gate system and the changes to biosecurity screening, as very sensible and practical. We believe these initiatives will make trans-Tasman travel as smooth, seamless and attractive as possible without jeopardising the vital integrity of our international borders".

"New Zealand's international airports have a pivotal role to play in implementing these measures by providing the essential airport infrastructure for tourists, airlines and border agencies. Our ability to support the implementation of the initiatives announced today will play a major part in their success."

Mr Ward added, "The tourism industry has already benefited from work done by airports in close consultation with their airline customers to introduce new competitive air services and increase seat capacity on routes across the Tasman, resulting in solid growth in Australian visitor arrivals. These new measures will enhance the trans-Tasman experience."