Some lucky Tongan citizens who have remained in New Zealand since the COVID-19 lockdown are on the way home today on a repatriation flight.

It is the first Air New Zealand operated flight to transport passengers between New Zealand and Tonga since border restrictions were introduced in March.

The flight was expected to arrive at Fua’amotu International Airport at 1:30pm.

All passengers were required to take a CoViD-19 test four days before travel and carry proof of a negative result.

On arrival in Tonga, the passengers are required to quarantine for 14 days at Taliai Military Camp and the Tanoa Hotel.

Air New Zealand Senior Manager Pacific Islands Brent Roxburgh said the airline was happy to support the Government of Tonga with the safe return of Tongan residents to their homeland.

“There are a large number of Tongan passport holders who have been in New Zealand for an extended period of time due to CoViD-19 related border restrictions.”

“Air New Zealand is pleased to be working closely with the Tongan government to help facilitate those wanting to return home.”

Air New Zealand is working with the Government of Tonga on the next repatriation flight. Customers who wish to return to Tonga are advised to register their interest at https://citizensregistration.gov.to/wp/ [2].