We’ve worked with many expats and Kiwis relocating to New Zealand since COVID hit in 2020. They worry about many different things - jobs and careers, how their kids will adjust, culture shock. But the most common concern is MIQ.
The limited number of MIQ spaces, and how to book them is an ongoing question. There’s now added confusion about if, and when, the isolation requirements might change for vaccinated travellers. And the perennial concerns from parents about how they’ll cope with active children confined to hotel rooms for two weeks.
Unfortunately there’s also a lot of rumour, speculation and misinformation about MIQ which is only adding stress for returning Kiwis and expats.
We decided the only way to get accurate and authoritative information was to ask the Head of MIQ, Megan Main. In collaboration with KEA New Zealand we crowdsourced questions from Kiwis offshore and put them to Megan in a recorded interview.
Here are our top three tips for expats moving to New Zealand or Kiwis planning to return home and needing to go through MIQ.
Vaccination vs MIQ
Don’t expect changes to MIQ requirements for vaccinated travellers any time soon. The MIQ system is constantly adapting based on public health advice, but the top priority is to keep returnees, the MIQ work force and the New Zealand community safe. The 14 day MIQ requirement will be in place for the foreseeable future, and certainly people planning to return for summer 2021 should plan for it even if they are vaccinated.
Getting home for the Kiwi summer
Book early, and be flexible. MIQ slots are now available up to 6 months in advance, and they are released throughout each month and across different time zones. Demand is expected to again be high in October/November/December 2021, so think about travelling early, or even over Christmas if you can.
Coping with kids
Ask and prepare. Choosing your hotel in advance isn’t possible, but you can provide information on what you need. Use the comment box when you book MIQ to make requests like weaning food for babies, or a cot. For older kids routines are important and you can download the MIQ Welcome Pack before you come as it contains a wealth of information to help you plan for life in isolation.
Quarantine is not anyone’s choice of how to spend two weeks. But making sure you have the correct information is essential for planning for how you’ll get through.
If you’d like to know more, you can watch the full interview with Megan here.
Mobile Relocation connects you with what you need to thrive in New Zealand. Contact us today to talk about how we can carry your relocation burden.
Bridget is a New Zealander who has lived and worked as a diplomat in Singapore and India. After experiencing all facets of the relocation experience, she founded Mobile to work with private individuals moving to NZ and leading local and international businesses bringing in offshore talent. bridget@mobile-relocation.com
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