It's looking increasingly likely that the much discussed trans-Tasman bubble is finally on the way.
Cabinet has agreed in principle to quarantine free travel in the first quarter of 2021.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says officials are working on contingency plans in the event of an outbreak.
The decision is dependent on Australia's agreement and no major change in circumstances in either country.
Australian federal health minister Greg Hunt said his government was keen on the idea, but are the two countries well placed to operate quarantine-free travel in a way that's safe?
Professor Tony Blakely is an epidemiologist specialising in public health at the University of Melbourne.
