New Zealand Largely Lifts COVID-19 Restrictions... Hospital Mask Wearing and 7-Day Isolation for Confirmed Cases Maintained

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hwang Seoyul] New Zealand announced that from 0:00 on the 13th, it will effectively lift all COVID-19 restrictions except for mask-wearing in medical facilities and a 7-day isolation for confirmed COVID-19 cases.

According to New Zealand media, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced at a press conference on the 12th (local time) that the traffic light system would be abolished. The abolition of the traffic light system effectively ends the COVID-19 restrictions that have governed residents' daily lives for over two years. Prime Minister Ardern stated, "Today, our response system is entering a new phase," adding, "Simply put, we are moving to a situation where only two requirements remain: wearing masks in medical facilities and a 7-day isolation for those who test positive."

Ardern further explained that most places, including public transportation, will no longer have mask-wearing requirements. While some workplaces or event venues may still require masks, this will be based on their own decisions rather than government mandates. She also announced that the previously enforced 7-day self-isolation will only apply to individuals who test positive for COVID-19, and household contact-related isolation will no longer be mandatory.

Additionally, from the 26th, the mandatory vaccination requirement for healthcare workers and others will be lifted, and the distribution of antiviral medications will be expanded to seniors aged 65 and over and Maori aged 50 and over. She also stated that travelers arriving from abroad and airline crew will no longer be required to be vaccinated before entry. However, COVID-19 testing for entrants will still be recommended.

New Zealand had implemented strict COVID-19 restrictions such as lockdowns since 2020, which were somewhat eased to a traffic light system from December last year. Since April, the entire country has been under the yellow traffic light system.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.