Health Minister Ayesha Verrall said in a statement on Monday that from Tuesday people will no longer have to wear face masks in healthcare settings or self-isolate for seven days after contracting the virus.
“While our case numbers will continue to fluctuate, we have not seen the dramatic spikes that characterized Covid-19 rates last year. This, coupled with levels of population immunity, means the Cabinet and I are advised that we are able to safely withdraw the remaining Covid-19 requirements,” Verrall said.
Most restrictions were lifted last year as vaccination rates hit high levels and hospitals across the country successfully weathered a winter without being overwhelmed.
The decision to scrap the requirements comes just two months after a hotly contested election.
While the New Zealand government’s handling of the pandemic was globally credited with keeping infection and death rates low, domestically it has been criticized for prolonged lockdowns, school closures and closed borders.
Prime Minister Chris Hipkins said officially ending the restrictions was an “important step”.
“I believe New Zealanders can be extremely proud of what we have achieved together. We have stayed home, we have made sacrifices, we have been vaccinated and there is no doubt that we have saved lives. “, he said during his weekly press conference.
Although it is no longer compulsory, the Minister of Health still recommends that people stay home for five days if you are not feeling well or have tested positive.
