Despite the emergence of Omicron, 70% of Kiwis remain keen to see the border reopen now. But parallel results in Australia suggest that demand may soften a little in the coming weeks, should Omicron escape MIQ.
Latest New Zealand results show 23% of the adult population holding the view that New Zealand’s international border should remain closed to all international visitors. 70% support the reopening of the border, most (59%) with appropriate health measures in place (“e.g. fully vaccinated or with a negative COVID-19 test”).
With Omicron spreading rapidly across the Tasman, there are early signs of a shift in public attitude toward the border, with a small increase in the proportion of Australians who are calling for the border to be closed to all international visitors. For the moment though, this remains the minority view with two-thirds of Australians still favouring a reopening of the border. As in New Zealand, few suggest that the border is thrown open with no restrictions in place.
Click here for a high res copy of the infographic for publication with this story.
The total survey sample for the period covered in this release (1 January to 20 December 2021) is n=3,057 New Zealanders and n=2,451 Australians. Respondents in both countries are aged 18 years or more and the sample is representative of the general population by age, gender and place of residence.
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ABOUT: THE VISITOR INSIGHTS PROGRAMME
The Visitor Insights Programme is an ongoing study of travel attitudes and experiences and is undertaken in New Zealand and Australia. The programme has been running continuously for more than 10 years and captures information on the travel experiences and opinions of more than 5,000 people aged 18 years and over each year.
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ABOUT: ANGUS & ASSOCIATES
Angus & Associates is a Wellington-based strategy and research company established in 2002. The company provides independent research and professional advice for public and private sector organisations in New Zealand, Australia, Europe, North America, and the Middle East.
ENDS
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For media queries please contact:
Cristine Angus
Managing Director
cristine@angusassociates.co.nz
+64 4 499 2212
