The government is urging New Zealanders wanting to leave the UK who are worried about the travel restrictions to contact their travel provider.
The almost deserted departures hall at Terminal 5 of Heathrow Airport in west London on 21 December 2020. Photo: AFP
In a statement, the government said it recognised that not everyone who wanterd to return home would be able to do so, and that this may be distressing for New Zealanders, their whānau and friends.
"New Zealand cannot influence or guarantee another country or airline's entry, exit or transit requirements.
"We strongly encourage New Zealanders to seek the most up-to-date information from the relevant country's immigration authorities and their airline and follow any requirements set," it said.
It also encouraged all overseas New Zealanders to register on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade's SafeTravel website and keep their details updated.
"This allows the government to contact New Zealanders in an emergency situation, send important travel information, or provide consular assistance while you are overseas."
More than 50 countries have banned travellers from the UK after a new more virulent strain of the Covid-19 virus led to a spike in cases in Britain.
New Zealanders who require emergency consular assistance after-hours should contact the 24/7 Consular emergency line on +64 99 20 20 20.