COVID-19 requirements were all removed on 15 August, 2023. You do not have to isolate for seven days if you have COVID-19, or wear a face mask in healthcare facilities.
The decision to remove the remaining requirements does not mean COVID-19 has disappeared. COVID-19 remains active in the community, and it can make people sick if they catch it.
People who test positive for COVID-19 are recommended to isolate for five days and stay home until they have recovered.
There is no legal requirement for people to isolate when they test positive for COVID-19. However, employers should support employees to isolate in line with health guidance.
Employment New Zealand has guidance for employers and businesses around COVID-19 and the workplace.
COVID-19 and the workplace(external link) — Employment New Zealand
For most workplaces, COVID-19 is not a risk arising from their work that needs to be managed from a health and safety perspective. It is now like other community-based infectious illnesses that can impact workers and their work.
WorkSafe has guidance for businesses.
COVID-19 guidance for workplaces and workers(external link) — WorkSafe
The Small Business Cash Flow Loan Scheme closed for applications on 31 December 2023.
Inland Revenue has information about repaying the loan.
Repaying the Small Business Cashflow Scheme (SBCS) loan(external link) — Inland Revenue
It’s recommended that you wear a face mask when visiting healthcare facilities. You’re encouraged to wear one when you are in closed, crowded and confined spaces.
Detailed information on mask wearing recommendations is on the Health New Zealand – Te Whatu Ora website.
Wearing a face mask(external link) — Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora
The Ministry of Health and Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora websites have more information.
COVID-19(external link)— Ministry of Health
COVID-19(external link)— Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora