New Zealand should take phased approach to border reopening, experts advise

Panel says country should also continue to pursue ambitious Covid elimination strategy, even after border reopens

New Zealand should take a phased approach to reopening its border but not before a high percentage of the population is vaccinated, according to an expert governmental advisory panel.

The advice's release comes a day before the prime minister, Jacinda Ardern, is expected to make an announcement on the government's approach to the reopening of the country on Thursday.