Home » New Zealand Travel News » New Zealand Unveils Game-Changing Visa-Free Travel Policy for Chinese and Pacific Island Tourists, Strengthening Regional Ties and Boosting Tourism Growth
Published on
November 5, 2025
New Zealand has taken a bold step to enhance regional tourism and mobility by launching a transformative visa-free travel initiative for Chinese and Pacific Island travelers. This groundbreaking policy, which allows visitors from these regions to travel to New Zealand without the need for a traditional visa, aims to simplify travel procedures, boost tourism, and foster stronger connections between New Zealand and its neighboring countries. By offering an easy alternative through the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA), the initiative is set to increase accessibility, streamline entry processes, and contribute to a thriving tourism industry.
New Zealand Launches Visa-Free Travel for Chinese and Pacific Island Travelers from Australia
New Zealand has unveiled an exciting new initiative aimed at boosting regional tourism and mobility. The country has introduced a 12-month trial that allows travelers from China and Pacific Island nations to visit without the need for a traditional visa. This policy, designed to simplify travel procedures, strengthen tourism connections, and promote closer ties with neighboring regions, is expected to enhance tourism flows and regional cooperation.
Who is Eligible for Visa-Free Travel?
The new policy applies to travelers from China and the Pacific Islands Forum countries who are traveling directly from Australia. This means that travelers must hold a valid Australian visa and meet certain requirements. Instead of applying for a traditional visitor visa, eligible travelers can now apply for a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA), which offers a more streamlined entry process.
To qualify for the visa-free travel arrangement, travelers must:
Travel Directly from Australia: The traveler must arrive in New Zealand directly from Australia (not just transit through).Passport Requirements: Eligible passport holders include citizens of China and Pacific Island Forum countries such as Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu, Kiribati, Nauru, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, Palau, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the Republic of the Marshall Islands.Australian Visa: The traveler must hold a valid Australian visa at the time of check-in.Approved NZeTA: Travelers need to obtain an NZeTA before traveling.
Importantly, citizens of Niue and the Cook Islands are already exempt from visa requirements and will not be affected by this new policy.
Eligible Australian Visa Categories
This initiative applies to holders of a range of valid Australian visas, making it accessible to many travelers in the region. Eligible visa categories include:
Visitor (Subclass 600)Student (Subclass 500)Work and Holiday (Subclass 462/417)Temporary Work (Subclass 400)Business Innovation and Investment (Subclass 188)Partner (Subclass 309/820)Retirement (Subclass 410/405)
Travelers can confirm the details of their Australian visa using the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system, provided by the Australian Department of Home Affairs.
How to Apply for the NZeTA
The New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) provides a faster, more convenient way for travelers to visit New Zealand without a traditional visa. Once approved, travelers can use their NZeTA to:
Multiple Entries: Enter New Zealand multiple times during the NZeTA’s validity.Stay for Up to Three Months: Stay in New Zealand for up to three months per visit.24-Hour Transit: Chinese travelers can now transit through New Zealand for up to 24 hours without needing a full visa.
To apply for the NZeTA, travelers must:
Meet health and character requirements.Provide sufficient proof of funds and demonstrate genuine reasons for visiting.Confirm their intention to depart New Zealand before the end of their authorized stay.
Applications for the NZeTA can be submitted through the official Immigration New Zealand website or via their free mobile app. It is recommended that travelers apply at least 72 hours prior to departure to allow for processing. An application fee will apply.
A Step Towards Simplified Travel
This new visa-free initiative is part of New Zealand’s broader effort to enhance travel experiences and strengthen relationships with its neighboring regions. By reducing the bureaucratic hurdles often associated with international travel, New Zealand aims to attract more visitors from China and Pacific Island nations, potentially increasing tourism and boosting local economies.
The 12-month trial period will be closely monitored to assess the program’s impact on travel demand, the visitor experience, and the efficiency of border management. If the initiative proves successful, it could lead to more permanent travel policies and expanded visa-free access for other regions in the future.
New Zealand has launched a pioneering visa-free travel initiative for Chinese and Pacific Island travelers, simplifying entry and boosting regional tourism. This move aims to enhance connectivity and promote tourism growth by offering a streamlined application process through the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA).
New Zealand’s visa-free travel program for Chinese and Pacific Island travelers from Australia represents a significant step toward simplifying travel, fostering stronger regional connections, and improving accessibility for tourists. By reducing red tape and making it easier for travelers to visit, New Zealand is set to enhance its tourism offerings and attract more visitors from key neighboring regions. This forward-thinking approach, if successful, could serve as a model for other countries looking to streamline travel procedures and promote regional growth.
