This section provides the latest updates, information and advice on COVID-19.
Current situation
New Zealand has 283 confirmed and probable cases of COVID-19. For a summary of the current status see our latest media release (26 March). More information is available on our current cases page. With continued vigilance the chance of widespread community outbreak is expected to remain low.
There are currently restrictions on who can enter New Zealand. 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. You can register for self-isolation online.
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 Zealand is currently at Alert Level 4 – Eliminate
These alert levels specify the public health and social measures to be taken. Nationwide, New Zealand is currently at Level 4 – Eliminate. This means that it is likely that the disease is not contained. See more information about Alert levels.
Find out how to look after your mental health and wellbeing when you have to stay at home.
Epidemic Notice: On Monday 23 March, the Prime Minister issued an Epidemic Notice under section 5 of the Epidemic Preparedness Act 2006. Find out more.
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:
26 March:
- Increasing the health workforce capacity – we are seeking expressions of interest from health and care professionals
25 March:
- Updated New Zealand passengar arrival measures
- Information on essential health and disability services
- COVID-19 Epidemic Notice
- Advice for older people
24 March:
23 March:
- New information for home and community support service workers
- Updated information for people who receive home support
- Updated advice for health professionals
- Advice for wellbeing in self-isolation
- Updated advice for public events and mass gatherings
- Updated advice for workplaces
- New form for notifying cases to the NHCC
- Updated guidance for health staff implementing home care
- Updated information for disabled people and their family and whānau
22 March:
- Primary Care Quick Reference Guide updated
- Questions and answers for primary health care workers updated
21 March:
- New information for community-based midwives
- Updated resources for primary care
- Information on alert levels added to the questions and answers
- Update on managed restricted access to aged care facilities
- Updated health pratique form
20 March:
- Advice updated across the site to reflect new border measures
19 March: