Google mogul Larry Page allowed into New Zealand despite closed border New Zealand authorities confirmed on Thursday that Google co-founder Larry Page was permitted to enter the country despite its closed border, reportedly to seek hospital treatment for one of his children. The decision sparked criticism from opposition politicians, who questioned the government’s transparency regarding the billionaire’s entry. Immigration New Zealand’s general manager of border and visa operations, Nicola Hogg, stated that Page “met relevant requirements” for entry. She emphasized that citizenship matters fall under the Department of Internal Affairs and declined to comment further due to privacy concerns. Hogg did not confirm whether Page underwent the mandatory two-week quarantine period for incoming travelers or provide details about the purpose of his visit. Page, who had been based on a remote Fijian island during the pandemic, faced scrutiny from the opposition ACT Party. ACT leader David Seymour accused the government of failing to explain why the billionaire was allowed in, especially amid ongoing challenges for ordinary citizens trying to cross the border. “The Government has questions to answer about why billionaire Google co-founder Larry Page was allowed into New Zealand when desperate Kiwis and separated families can’t get through the border,” Seymour said. The incident highlights tensions over border policies and public trust in government decisions during the pandemic. While officials maintained that Page’s entry was in line with established protocols, critics argued the situation underscored disparities in how restrictions were applied.#new_zealand #larry_page #nicola_hogg #act_party #david_seymour
