At Alert Level 1 we all need to be ready in case COVID-19 reappears in our community.
Border Restrictions
Controls at the borders remain for those entering New Zealand. This includes health screening and testing for all arrivals, and mandatory 14 day managed isolation or quarantine.
If You are Unwell
Staying at home if you’re sick is especially important at Alert Level 1. The risk of COVID-19 being spread in the community is much greater when there are no restrictions on gatherings or going out.
Get a Test if you have symptoms
If you have cold, flu or COVID-19 symptoms, stay home and call your doctor or Healthline on 0800 358 5453 to see if you need a test.
Symptoms include:
- a new or worsening cough
- a fever of at least 38°C
- shortness of breath
- sore throat
- sneezing and runny nose
- temporary loss of smell.
These symptoms do not necessarily mean you have COVID-19. The symptoms are similar to other illnesses that are much more common, such as colds and flu.
Shortness of breath is a sign of possible pneumonia and requires immediate medical attention.
Wear Face Coverings on Public Transport
Wearing a face covering helps keep you and others safe. It helps stop droplets spreading when someone speaks, laughs, coughs or sneezes.
At Alert Level 1, face coverings legally must be worn:
- on public transport
- on domestic flights
- by taxi and ride-share drivers — while it’s not compulsory for passengers to wear them, we strongly encourage you to.
There are exemptions for some people and services.
Maintain Good Hygiene
Keep up good handwashing practices, using soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and drying thoroughly. Cough and sneeze into your elbow. Keep surfaces clean.
Keep Track of Where You’ve Been and Who You’ve Seen
At Alert Level 1, there is still a risk of COVID-19 returning to the community. We encourage you to continue tracking where you’ve been and who you’ve seen to help with contact tracing, if required.
You can use the NZ COVID Tracer app on public transport, in workplaces and when visiting businesses and shops. You can also add manual entries for places you’ve been that do not have a QR code poster.
Alternatively, you can keep your own diary with details of places you’ve visited, the time you were there and who you were with.
Public transport operators, workplaces and businesses legally must display the NZ COVID Tracer QR code poster to help customers to keep track of where they’ve been.
Keep Your Distance
COVID-19 is contained at Alert Level 1, but it’s still worthwhile to keep a safe distance from people you don’t know while out and about. This will help to minimise the spread of COVID-19 if community transmission returns.
