More than 200 fly to Auckland from Apia

SAMOA – An Air New Zealand plane has repatriated 200 people from Apia to Auckland but did not take any passengers back to Samoa.

The airbus delivered only essential supplies back to Apia.

The round trip was made in one day on Friday without a need for crew changes.

The New Zealand High Commission confirmed flight NZ993 had been approved by the Government of Samoa to help get people home.

“Air New Zealand is aware there is significant demand for travellers to leave Samoa and for freight in and out of the country. The airline will continue to comply with the Samoan government in protecting Samoa from Covid-19,” said the airline.

All travellers arriving in Auckland were taken into an immediate 14-day managed isolation site, a requirement for all international arrivals.

All passengers were required to pay for their air travel but the New Zealand government will pick up the costs of accommodation and meals during the isolation period.

>RNZ