Some tourism operators will hold off ramping up their business until there is more certainty over whether trans-Tasman travel will bring a boon to the regions.
Australians accounted for 40 percent of tourists to New Zealand in 2019 but it is uncertain what numbers will arrive after the bubble opens on 19 April.
While there is hope, some businesses say they can't boost operations or employ additional staff without more confidence.
Tourism reporter Tess Brunton has this report.
