The minister in charge of New Zealand's Covid-19 response has now himself tested positive for the coronavirus.
Tweeting an image of a rapid antigen test, Hipkins writes: "The faint line seems out of keeping with how I currently feel!
"Day 7 of isolation and now it's my turn. So I'll be clocking off for another 7 days. Take care out there everyone."
The faint line seems out of keeping with how I currently feel! Day 7 of isolation and now it’s my turn. So I’ll be clocking off for another 7 days. Take care out there everyone. pic.twitter.com/9wt8u7oe3o
— Chris Hipkins (@chrishipkins) March 15, 2022
The Covid-19 response minister would normally have fronted today's Covid-19 update, but the media conference has been cancelled for today.
The Ministry of Health will release its daily statement on case numbers about 1pm.
Hipkins is the latest of several MPs to have tested positive, including Environment Minister David Parker, Police Minister Poto Williams, National Party leader Christoper Luxon and National MP Simon Bridges.