Kiwis returning to New Zealand from Australia will not need to isolate upon arrival from 11.59pm on Wednesday, while NZ returnees from the rest of the world will also be able to come home without isolating from late Friday.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern made the announcement from Parliament on Monday afternoon. All unvaccinated travellers will still need to enter MIQ.

The scrapping of self-isolation for New Zealanders coming from Australia and beyond is a positive announcement for ex-pat Kiwis returning for the New Zealand Bloodstock National Yearling Sales which commence at Karaka next Monday March 7.