- If you think you have COVID-19: Please only make an appointment for testing if you have symptoms: 4290 356 OR 4290 047. Using the rapid antigen tests (RATs) which are available on the Island, means you only need to wait for 15 mins.
- Only people who regard themselves as HOUSEHOLD CONTACTS will need to isolate for 10 days. They will be tested on Day 3 and Day 10.
- Close contacts are not required to isolate. They are to monitor themselves for symptoms and if they develop any then to get a test. We recommend you avoid situations where you may be in contact with someone who is vulnerable.
About the current phase
Protecting lives and livelihoods remains the goal of the Government’s COVID-19 response. It is now possible to do this with fewer requirements, giving greater certainty to people, businesses and communities.
With case numbers falling, a highly vaccinated population, and increased access to antiviral medicines to treat COVID-19, public health experts say it is safe to remove most COVID-19 rules and end border restrictions.
Thanks to the efforts of New Zealanders throughout the pandemic, we have saved thousands of lives. As well as each person and family who has followed the rules, we thank iwi and Māori health providers, Pacific organisations, aged care providers, businesses, schools and other education providers who have made extraordinary efforts to protect people and communities.
Managing the virus
Isolation is our main tool to manage the spread of the virus. It is the most effective way to keep case numbers low. Isolating for 7 days remains a requirement for everyone who tests positive.
To monitor for new variants arriving from overseas, the Government will continue to use:
- follow-up PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests and genome sequencing of positive cases in travellers
- targeted surveillance at the border.
Mental health support
COVID-19 has taken a toll on everyone’s mental health. Effective mental health tools are available to help people recover from the impact of the pandemic.
What you need to know and do
Isolation and face masks
From 13 September 2022 you must still:
- isolate for 7 days if you have COVID-19
- wear a face mask in certain healthcare facilities, such as hospitals.
Some places may continue to ask people to wear a face mask.
Household Contacts
Household Contacts no longer need to isolate for 7 days. If you live with someone who tests positive for COVID-19, we recommend you:
- take a rapid antigen test (RAT) each day for 5 days
- avoid contact with the person who has COVID-19.
Antiviral medicines
Antiviral medicines are available for people at risk of becoming very sick with COVID-19, including:
- any New Zealander aged 65 or older
- Māori and Pacific peoples aged 50 or older
- anyone with 3 high-risk conditions.
This will help protect our vulnerable communities.
Vaccine mandates
All government vaccine mandates have ended. Some employers may still require workers to be vaccinated due to health and safety.
Travel requirements
Travellers and crew do not need proof of COVID-19 vaccination to enter New Zealand. Please check with your travel provider, for example, your airline, as they may still require proof of vaccination.
If you have COVID-19 symptoms when you arrive in New Zealand by air, we encourage you to take a rapid antigen test (RAT). You can get free RATs at the airport.
Information for international travellers