NZ welcomes back tourists as pandemic rules eased

New Zealand welcomed tourists from more than 50 other countries for the first time in more than two years after dropping most of its remaining pandemic border restrictions.

The country has long been renowned for its breathtaking scenery and adventure tourism offerings such as bungee jumping and skiing.

The international tourism stopped altogether in early 2020 after New Zealand imposed some of the world's toughest border restrictions.

The border reopening will help boost tourism ahead of New Zealand's upcoming ski season.

The country reopened to tourists from Australia three weeks ago and on Monday to about 60 visa-waiver countries, including much of Europe.