National promises to make trans-Tasman travel easier
New Zealand's National party has proposed a digital, biometric-based travel trial for trans-Tasman flights to be implemented by the 2028 T20 World Cup. The opposition Labour party has questioned the timeline and progress of the initiative, citing previous government work on the project.
Why it matters
Streamlining border security through digital credentials reflects a global trend toward paperless travel and increased reliance on biometric technology.
National wants to progress a more seamless trans-Tasman travel experience, but Labour is questioning what happened to work it did on the issue before 2023.
If re-elected, the party says it will "work with" Australia on a fully digital trial, in time for the next men's T20 World Cup.
It could mean paper passports are no longer required at the gates, with Australian and New Zealand citizens providing their details digitally before departure, and then relying on smartphones, digital credentials, and biometric technology in their journeys through the airports.
National tourism spokesperson Louise Upston said it is the "next logical step" in the relationship.
"Today's announcement is in the spirit of the long-standing and close relationship between our two countries and will make passage between them as seamless as possible, whilst still maintaining the security and integrity of New Zealand's border."
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