Extra $150m for PPE

The Government will spend $150 million securing personal protective equipment (PPE) for health workers and returnees in managed isolation and quarantine. The money will also allow PPE to be worn on Air New Zealand flights into the country. Returnees will also be required to wear PPE when in common areas in managed isolation or quarantine, and while exercising. Health Minister David Clark made the announcement yesterday. The money from the $50 billion Covid Response and Recovery Fund adds to a $200m investment in PPE in April. Clark said ‘‘millions’’ of items had arrived in the country’s PPE store over the last fortnight. An audit report on the border released on Sunday said PPE use had not been consistent across managed isolation and quarantine. People returning from overseas are required to spend two weeks in isolation or quarantine.