Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has announced that New Zealand will drop to level 2 restrictions, which will see the return of domestic tourism.

From Thursday, May 14, in-country travel will be allowed, giving accommodation owners and local airlines a boost, TravelMole reports.

Restaurants, cinemas and shopping malls can open while bars will have to wait until May 21.

Borders will stay closed except for returning Kiwis.

Once Level 2 kicks in Air New Zealand will operate about 20% of its normal domestic capacity.

Source: Travel Info