This section provides the latest updates, information and advice on COVID-19.
Current situation
New Zealand has 39 confirmed cases of COVID-19. For a summary of the current status see our latest media release (20 March). More information is available on our current cases page. With continued vigilance the chance of widespread community outbreak is expected to remain low.
Travellers who have arrived in New Zealand within the last 14 days are being asked to self-isolate – see Self-isolation to find out more.
If you have been overseas within the last 14 days and develop a fever, cough or shortness of breath, call Healthline on 0800 358 5453.
New border measures announced
The Government has announced further border measures restricting entry to New Zealand.
From 11.59pm 19 March 2020, only New Zealand residents and citizens (and their children and partners) will be permitted to enter New Zealand. (This includes the Realm countries, Australian citizens and permanent residents ordinarily resident in New Zealand, airline and marine crew.)
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.
Latest updates
Our advice is under active review and is updated regularly. The latest updates include the following changes to the website:
20 March:
- Advice updated across the site to reflect new border measures
19 March:
18 March:
- Update to self-isolation advice
- Information on current cases now available
- Added resources for health professionals: Road ambulance transfer of patients and guidance for cancer services
- Added Te reo Māori poster - protect yourself and others against COVID-19
17 March:
- Information for disabled people or people who need support for daily life and their family/whānau
- Information for residential care providers
- Updated Advice to airline crew on the use of personal protective equipment
- Updated Self-isolation information
16 March:
15 March:
- Updated resources for health professionals
- Updated countries and areas of concern page to reflect updated border control measures
13 March:
- Updated Questions and answers for primary health care workers (new question on who not to swab)
- New information sheets added: Information on tikanga and gatherings, Cultural/religious practices, looking after your mental wellbeing.