This section provides the latest updates, information and advice on COVID-19.
Current situation
Case numbers
There are 5 new cases of COVID-19 today, 26 August 2020. There are now 134 active cases of COVID-19 in New Zealand. See our current cases page.
Contact tracing and self isolation
We are tracing all close contacts of these cases, and getting them tested for COVID-19. All close contacts will remain in self-isolation for 14 days. Most casual contacts do not need to self-isolate and only need to be tested if they develop symptoms. Read more information on self isolation for close and casual contacts.
Alert levels
Until 11.59 pm Sunday 30 August the Auckland region (Auckland Council area) is at Alert Level 3. The rest of New Zealand is at Alert Level 2. Find out more on the Unite Against COVID-19 website.
Where to get a test for COVID-19 in Auckland
If you have symptoms you can:
- get a test at most GPs – call ahead to find out if you need a test and follow their advice
- get a test at a Community Testing Centre – this list will continue to be updated.
People in other regions can check their local district health board website to find out about testing in their area.
Regional exemptions at Alert Level 3
The Auckland city ‘border’ is currently closed. Some exemptions will be allowed. For more information, including how to apply, see Advice for travellers.
For COVID-19 health advice and information, contact the Healthline team (for free) on 0800 358 5453 or +64 9 358 5453 for international SIMS.
NZ COVID Tracer app
The official Ministry of Health contact tracing app helps you keep a digital diary of the places you’ve been.
- Advice for all health professionals
- Allied health professionals
- Āwhina app
- Cancer and screening services
- Case definition and testing guidance
- Funded temporary accommodation
- Health sector providers
- Join the COVID-19 surge workforce
- Maternity
- Medical transfer
- Mental health and addiction
- PPE use in health care
- Pharmacy
- Primary care
- Recording COVID-19
- Telehealth and online tools
- Well Child providers
Latest updates
Our advice is under active review and is updated regularly. The latest updates include the following changes to the website:
27 August:
- Updated: NZ COVID Tracer QR codes
- Updated: Information on the restrictions to Aged Residential Care facilities outside of Auckland at Alert Level 2
26 August:
- Updated: Information for disabled people and their family and whānau
- Updated: Managing your bubble
- Updated: Case definition and testing guidance
- Updated: Contact tracing locations of interest
- Updated: Maritime sector - exemption for vessels to enter New Zealand
25 August:
- Added: New information in Easy Read, New Zealand Sign Language and Large print and audio formats.
- Updated: COVID-19: Epidemic notice and Orders
24 August:
- Updated: Primary care quick reference guide
- Updated: Use of masks in the community
23 August:
- Updated: COVID-19: Self-isolation
- Updated: COVID-19: Advice for higher-risk people
21 August: