Covid 19
Covid-19: Negative rapid antigen test a way out of isolation for critical workers
Critical workers who become close Covid-19 contacts will soon be able to skip lengthy self-isolation periods if they return a negative rapid antigen test.
The Government will today outline the next… Audio
Retailers still face mask resisters and exemption issues, association says
Retail NZ says the new rules around use of masks do not solve the main problems that businesses face.
Next two phases of Omicron response to be revealed today
Officials will announce more details on rapid antigen tests, the treatment of close contacts, and quarantine and isolation periods later today.
Covid-19: Makeshift masks make an exit
Farewell makeshift masks - scarves, bandanas and pulled up t-shirts - it's now no mask, no service.
How easy will it be to enforce the tougher rules?
Kim Moodie reports. Audio
Stranded NZers to learn about self-isolation scheme soon
The prime minister confirmed New Zealanders stuck overseas will learn when they can bypass MIQ and isolate at home in a matter of weeks.
Covid-19: Live music industry mourns early end to summer shows
Those in the live music business are warning latest Covid-19 restrictions will seriously damage the industry.
Freelance music tour manager Sarin Moddle says stakes are high at this time of the year… Audio
Covid-19: NZers overseas wait for MIQ news
New Zealanders overseas will learn in a matter of weeks when they can return home without booking a stay in an MIQ facility.
They've been waiting for an exact date ever since the government delayed… Audio
Lots of booster jabs, new rules for mask wearing explained
Later today we'll find out a bit more about what the next phases of New Zealand's Omicron strategy will look like, It follows yesterday's news that 14.5 million Rapid Antigen Tests will arrive in the… Audio
Brad Olsen explains new Red adaptions for businesses
The jump back to the red alert level means thousands of businesses once again having to adapt to new restrictions. Infometrics Chief Economist Brad Olsen is here to help explain them. Audio
Solomon Islands reports first Covid-19 deaths
Health authorities say they expect more cases in the coming days as community transmission was now widespread in the capital and some provincial areas.
South Auckland GPs brace for surge in Omicron cases
South Auckland GPs say they are preparing for a surge in Omicron cases, but there needs to be more coordination from the Ministry of Health and district health boards to help them deal with the next…
N95 masks not recommended due to supply constraints - Hipkins
Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins has defended the recommendation that people use the disposable surgical or medical grade masks as opposed to N95s, saying it is an issue of practicality. Audio
Red light setting, fewer customers stressing business owners
Less than 48 hours into the red setting, a shift in work habits and daily routines is playing out on central city streets around New Zealand, causing stress for business owners.
City streets quiet as many brace for Omicron
City streets are already starting to empty out, as people return to working from home and brace for Omicron.
There were 10 new cases of the variant on Tuesday - in Auckland, Palmerston North, Nelson… Audio
Omicron isolation and employment - your questions answered
Based on current rules many people could be facing weeks and weeks in isolation as we build to peak Omicron.
At the moment if you are a close contact of a household case, your 10 days isolation does… Video, Audio
Major concern over Omicron case at Pukekohe wedding event
An unwelcome guest at a Pukekohe wedding has alarm bells ringing, with health officials saying Omicron and a large number of people were there.
The Pukekohe Indian Hall is now one of several new… Video, Audio
Nelson, Tasman residents financially best placed to manage Omicron impact - research
New research shows the Nelson and Tasman regions have the strongest financial wellbeing in the country.
Covid Response Minister on new mask rules under Omicron
The government is tightening its rules for mask use under the 'red' traffic light setting. Masks must now be worn in all food and drink venues, close-proximity businesses, events and gatherings.
The… Video, Audio
Major Taupō cycle event cancelled again due to Covid-19
New Zealand's largest cycling event, the BDO Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge is the latest to fall under the Covid-19 red traffic light level.
Covid-19: Omicron enters the Bay of Plenty as 10 new cases confirmed
There are 25 new community cases today, including two Omicron cases in Tauranga and a new location of interest related to the cluster has been identified in Auckland.
