Latest from Ministry of Health

Focus: Everything you need to know about the new Covid-19 mask rules

All you need to know about the new mask-wearing protocol as Omicron cases increase and the country settles into the orange setting of the traffic light system. Video / NZ Herald

Focus Live: Three-stage plan for Omicron revealed

January 26 2022 The Government has released its three-phased approach in how it will tackle the Omicon variant spreading through the community.

No Omicron detected in Northland yet; 2 new community cases

New wastewater testing detected traces of the coronavirus in Opononi and Kawakawa.

Government seizing rapid tests to beef up its own stocks, businesses say

After banning rapid Covid tests for a year, the Government is now seizing private stocks.

300+ residents, staff at Omicron-linked retirement home test negative

Has Omicron spread further in the community overnight?

Fewer than 900 quarantine rooms available for Covid cases

The arrival of Omicron will see more cases, and close contacts, needing to self-isolate.

Nearly 1000 people isolating after contact with Omicron case

Since Omicron in the community, a number of locations of interest have been identified.

New Covid-19 mask rules: Everything you need to know

Masks play a significant role when 'done right', says PM.

Focus Live: PM Jacinda Ardern reveals new mask rules

January 25 2022 PM Jacinda Ardern said Cabinet has decided to update mask mandates as Omicron cases in the community increase. Masks must now be worn at businesses which serve food and drink, the PM said.

Opinion: We need to declare a health workforce emergency

Health official on staff shortage under Covid, impact on other surgery, staff retention.

Mask advice under review as Omicron community transmission confirmed

MOH officials are reviewing the advice around masks and the most effective ones.

Focus: Covid-19 Outbreak | Sunday 23rd January Wrap

January 23 2022 PM Jacinda Ardern today announced a three-stage plan to combat Omicron - with further details to be revealed on Wednesday.

Omicron threat: Why Siouxsie Wiles won't be going to bars or restaurants

Siouxsie Wiles says airborne risk means she'll be staying away.

24 community cases; Rest home worker linked to Omicron-infected family tests positive

The Ministry of Health is due to update the latest Covid case numbers at 1pm.

A wedding, a funeral, an amusement park: What we know about new Omicron cases

The nine people attended events with well over 100 people.

NZ moving to red - how to prepare for the Omicron outbreak

Make sure you and your household have a plan for self-isolation if someone gets sick.

'We're not going to stop Omicron, but we can slow it down': Experts on community outbreak

The news was revealed at a snap 11am press conference by the PM.

Focus Live: NZ moves to red traffic light setting

January 23 2022 PM Jacinda Ardern has confirmed New Zealand will move to the red traffic light setting at midnight tonight.