New Zealand welcomes 'Australian friends' as trans-Tasman travel bubble begins

New Zealand is ready to say kia ora to Australian travellers.

The trans-Tasman bubble is open today, allowing travellers to fly between the two countries without needing to quarantine on either side.

Tourism New Zealand General Manager Andrew Waddel told Today there would be "emotional scenes" in New Zealand today, with reunions between families and friends.

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"Building from that, there are going to be business travellers and holiday arrivals," Mr Waddel said.

"New Zealand gets to welcome back our Australian friends and vice versa, New Zealanders coming back to Australia as well.

"We're really excited. It's a great buzz here in the airport."

Mr Waddel said the loss of tourism due to the pandemic resulted in a "big economic impact". 

He said the trans-Tasman travel bubble would offer a large economic return as well as the creation of jobs.

Mr Waddel recommended Australians "plan ahead" and do their research prior to their trip.

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"We're encouraging people to visit websites like New Zealand.com or COVID-19.gov.nz and they'll provide good travel advice," Mr Waddel said.

"Download the COVID app, plan ahead and have contingencies in place as well.

"There's so much on offer... which we're looking forward to sharing very soon. We're really excited".

Last night, the first quarantine-free flight between Australia and New Zealand touched down in Auckland just minutes after the trans-Tasman bubble officially opened.