Australians could be able to travel to New Zealand quarantine-free within months if both countries keep coronavirus under control.
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New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has announced plans to introduce the trans-Tasman travel bubble by March.
The plan is contingent on Australia going 28 days without community transmission and will need to be signed off by both governments early next year.
Work is under way on health and transport protocols to ensure travellers are protected.
Adrian Littlewood, the chief executive officer at Auckland International Airport, said clear guidelines would be needed in relation to potential outbreaks in either country.
Mr Littlewood said businesses and travellers needed certainty in order to plan properly.
"Both countries need to mutually recognise each other's performance and decide what's right for each country separately but make their own decisions," he told ABC radio on Tuesday.
"That is something we would like to see from the government as they get more confidence and information around what's happening at the border."
Ms Ardern and Prime Minister Scott Morrison committed to the safe travel zone in May, saying it would assist the economic recoveries of both countries, enhance sporting competitions and reunite family and friends.
It's also intended that once the bubble is in place and has been thoroughly tested there would be opportunities to expand it to Pacific island nations.
Health Minister Greg Hunt said Australia was prepared to do its bit as soon as New Zealand was ready.
"It's good for the economy, good for our airlines and it's good for both countries," he said.
"It is a first step on a return to international normality."
The minister has received medical advice that New Zealanders won't require COVID-19 vaccination to travel because the country does not have community transmission.
In a typical year, 1.5 million Australians travel to New Zealand.
Labor frontbencher Bill Shorten said while it was great to see the trans-Tasman bubble progressing it was important not to forget the thousands of Australians still stranded overseas.
"They won't be home for Christmas," he tweeted.
Australian Associated Press
