Nurses say the earlier border might bring some relief, but it's not a silver bullet to the dual crises of Omicron and healthcare workforce shortages.
From the end of the week, vaccinated New Zealanders will be allowed to return without needing to self-isolate.
Government advisor epidemiologist Sir David Skegg told Morning Report the border would likely open to tourists and others much earlier than previously planned.
The Nurses Organisation's associate professional services manager Kate Weston spoke to Māni Dunlop.
