COVID-19 (novel coronavirus)

Current situation

New Zealand is in Phase 3 of the Omicron response plan and at Orange in the COVID Protection Framework (traffic lights).

Read more on Unite against COVID-19 and in the latest news and media updates.

Face masks

Wearing face masks protects yourself and others from COVID-19, especially when in poorly ventilated spaces or when it is hard to physically distance from others. Read more on when you must wear a face mask on Unite against COVID-19 and about the new COVID-19 Face Mask Exemption Pass.

Testing and isolating

If you develop COVID-19 symptoms or are a household contact of someone with COVID-19, get tested immediately. Read about COVID-19 testing.

People with COVID-19 and household contacts must isolate for 7 days, with tests on days 3 and 7 for household contacts. Find advice on the COVID-19 Health Hub or call Healthline on 0800 358 5453.

Vaccinations

New Zealand’s vaccination rate has reached 96% for first doses, 95% for second doses and 71% for boosters. People 18 and over can have a booster at least 3 months after their primary vaccinations, while people 16 and 17 years old must wait for at least 6 months for their booster. If you’ve have had COVID-19 wait three months until you have a COVID-19 vaccination. Read more at COVID-19 vaccinations.

Travel advice

Vaccinated visitors from visa waiver countries, and visitors from other countries who already hold a valid visitor visa, can travel to New Zealand. From 11:59pm 31 July 2022 the border will be open to all tourists and visa holders.

Testing requirements are in place. View details at COVID-19: Travellers and Travel to New Zealand and information on what to do if you are unwell or test positive while travelling.