Thu, 20 Aug 2009 12:00a.m.
Under changes announced today it will be easier to travel between Australia and New Zealand.
Prime Minister John Key said after a meeting with Australian counterpart Kevin Rudd travel would be faster and easier under stream-lined border processes.
"Once the changes I have announced today are in place, new passenger clearance systems for trans-Tasman flights mean low-risk New Zealand and Australian passengers will get a fast exit from border control at the airport," Mr Key said.
Changes included:
* Installation of a kiosk and gate system "SmartGate" to allow passengers with e-passports to self-process through passport control. This would be introduced first at Auckland International Airport for arrivals in December. Wellington and Christchurch will follow next year and a SmartGate for departures will be operational in all three airports in 2011.
* Passengers from New Zealand or Australia identified as low-risk will be able to exit the airport faster because of the use of more targeted risk-based assessment following a successful trial in Auckland.
* The instant fine for bringing risk goods into the country will increase from $200 to $400.
* The feasibility of x-ray image transfer was being looked into. This would mean inspectors would be able to assess and clear incoming passenger baggage during flight time.
A report on progress toward implementing this image transfer is due to go to Cabinet early next year.
"These changes are not the end of the work programme, but as they are implemented they will help make trans-Tasman travel more convenient for passengers," Mr Key said.
"This can be achieved without sacrificing New Zealand's border security -- in fact allowing staff to focus more on high-risk passengers enhances security.
"The future work programme our countries have agreed to underlines that we want to further streamline the trans-Tasman travel experience where possible."
NZPA
