Updates from INZ - 19 September 2022

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.

Please note that the following still apply:

• You must still isolate for 7 days if you have COVID-19.
• You must wear a face mask in healthcare facilities, such as hospitals.

Isolation and face masks
 From 13 September 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, you are recommended to:

• 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 mandatesAll government vaccine mandates will end at 11:59 pm, 26 September 2022. Some employers may still require workers to be vaccinated due to health and safety.

Travel requirementsTravellers 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.
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People entering New Zealand will be given free RATs. They are encouraged to test on the day of arrival and on day 5 or 6, and accordingly report any positive RAT results.