Push for NT to be among first few jurisdictions in Australia-NZ travel bubble

NEW Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters says he wants to start working with the NT Government ‘as soon as possible’ regarding potential plans for a trans-Tasman travel bubble.

NEW Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters says he wants to start working with the NT Government “as soon as possible” regarding potential plans for a travel bubble between the two locations.

Mr Peters said he is still optimistic there could be a trans-Tasman travel bubble with some Australian states and territories before Christmas.

He said that while Tasmania and Queensland will likely be the first states to open up for travellers from New Zealand, he is also looking to the Northern Territory.

New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister and New Zealand First leader Winston Peters. Picture: Hannah Peters/Getty Images

OFFER EXTENDED: Subscribe to the NT News for just $1

“We are interested in opening a trans-Tasman travel bubble with any state that can meet our health requirements, and look forward to working with the Northern Territory government as soon as is possible,” Mr Peters said.

NT’s Chief Minister Michael Gunner said he was open to the idea.

“We are the safest place in Australia so it’s no surprise our Kiwi mates are keen to get over here,” he said.

“International borders are a matter for the federal government but we’ll work with them on making sure more people can come to the Territory while also keeping Territorians safe.”

Follow @tashemeck

Originally published as Push for NT to be among first few jurisdictions in Australia-NZ travel bubble