You are required to stay in the isolation facility for a minimum of 14 days (336 hours). This may start from the time you land in New Zealand, or from when you entered the managed isolation facility if you didn’t follow requirements to wear a face mask and physical distance. In almost all cases a negative COVID-19 test and confirmation from a health practitioner that you are a low risk of having or transmitting COVID-19 are needed before you can leave the facility.
Low risk of having or transmitting COVID-19 includes confirming you have:
- Been in managed isolation for at least 14 days
- No symptoms consistent with COVID-19, which includes sore throat, cough, or difficulty breathing/shortness of breath
- You do not have a temperature of 38°C or higher
- In almost all cases, tested negative for COVID-19
You must meet these criteria to leave the facility and receive a letter confirming you have completed managed isolation. You will also need to complete an Exit Managed Isolation Form. A nurse will help you with this and sign it off.
Once you leave the facility, your travel plan will begin. You are responsible for organising your own transport from this facility (or the airport you arrived at if you wish to be taken back there) to your next accommodation.
You can be required to stay up to a total of 28 days if you refuse a COVID-19 test or are not considered a low risk by a health practitioner.