News / Events

Following today's announcement by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern:

• The COVID Protection Framework will remain in place, with some changes. 
• The following changes for RED Traffic Light come into place from 11:59PM Friday, 25 March 2022:
  • Hospitality limits will increase to 200 people indoors, with the seated and separated criteria remain
  • Outdoor events will have no limit, with masks not required to be worn.
  • RED Light Settings will be reviewed on 4 April 2022 and will remain in place until then.
• From 11:59PM Monday 4 April 2022:
  • My Vaccine Passes will no longer be mandatory, however businesses and organisations are able to continue to require vaccination passports as part of their risk assessment and H&S plan.
  • Scanning of COVID19 QR Codes will no longer be mandatory.
  • Vaccine Mandates will be narrowed to include only border and health workers.
• When the country moves to ORANGE Traffic Light, which could be from early-April, restrictions remain broadly the same with no gathering limits but extra guidance on holding safe events, and a new requirement for workers to wear masks at indoor events.
• At all levels, the testing and isolation requirements remain as they are now.

Associate Health Minister Dr Ayesha Verall confirmed that it appears COVID19 will be with us for the foreseeable future and response to variants will continue to be required. Prime Minister Ardern noted that should any future variants pose significant challenges the effectiveness of the COVID19 Protection Framework, along with the use of QR Codes and Vaccine Passes and any relevant restrictions (including lockdowns), will be reviewed and enacted as required.  

Watch the full announcement HERE