NZ extends travel controls in efforts to curb coronavirus spread

Restrictions on travel from China introduced to prevent the spread of coronavirus have been extended for eight days.

The restrictions, which prevent foreign nationals travelling from, or transiting through, mainland China from entering New Zealand — will be reviewed every 48 hours, Health Minister David Clark said yesterday.

New Zealand citizens, permanent residents and their immediate family returning to New Zealand will be able to enter, but are being told to selfisolate for 14 days upon their return.

“New Zealand has not yet had a confirmed case of Covid-19 but this continues to be an evolving situation.

“At every step our response to the coronavirus has been based on the best available science and health advice.”

Clark said New Zealand must take a precautionary approach.

“Our border response is in line with Australia, the US and a range of other countries.

“It is a responsible approach to assist international efforts to contain this disease, and to protect New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.

“Imposing travel restrictions is not a decision that was taken lightly, but in the end this is a matter of public health,” Clark said.

The Ministry of Health said on

Friday the number of passengers arriving directly in New Zealand from mainland China had fallen from about 2000 people a day to 500 a day.

Just over 3000 people who left China after February 2 have registered with Healthline and are in self-isolation in New Zealand.