Travel insurance will be optional for visitors entering the country from January 13, says Border Easement Taskforce, despite other countries enforcing it.

Karla Eggelton from the Taskforce said travel insurance would not be mandatory at this stage but will need to be considered for future border settings.

In Fiji where the border opens on December 1 to fully vaccinated tourists from select countries, all visitors are required to have insurance that covers for Covid-19.

Fiji has offered local travel insurance, FijiCare which can be purchased at the airport for around $35.

Liana Scott, the president of the Cook Islands Tourism Industry Council and general manager of Muri Beach Club Resort, said travel insurance was always recommended by her hotel even prior to Covid-19.

From what she’s seen, Scott said the insurance available was “not outrageously expensive”.

“In terms of making in mandatory, it really comes down to customer’s choice,” Scott said.

“One comfort is that we have a very strong relationship with New Zealand and this gives Kiwis a sense of comfort.”

Scott said like most insurances it was important for consumers to read the fine print.