Testing requirements after arriving in New Zealand
When to do your RAT
You will be given a pack of rapid antigen tests (RATs), with instructions on how to use them, at the airport.
You must take 2 tests.
Take a test on:
- Day 0/1, when you arrive in New Zealand, and
- Day 5/6.
Children under 6 months do not need to self-test on arrival.
You can find more detailed instructions for taking a RAT test on the Ministry of Health website.
Approved RATs and how to use them | health.govt.nz (external link)
How to report your RAT results
You must report both RAT results, whether you test negative or positive.
Your Welcome Pack will have instructions on how you can report your result.
You will receive a reminder email from the New Zealand Ministry of Health. Follow the instructions in the email and report your results using the link in the email.
You can also call the COVID-19 Test Results Line with your result. The call centre is open from 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week.
Call: 0800 432 010
If you return a positive RAT
If you return a positive RAT result you will need to:
- report it, including that you have recently arrived in New Zealand
- isolate for 7 days, the same period as a community case in New Zealand, and
- get a PCR test. Tell the health professional who does the test that you have recently arrived in New Zealand. The PCR test sample provides valuable information about potential new variants coming into New Zealand.
PCR tests for overseas travellers are free.
Where to get a PCR test
Healthpoint lists testing centres by area. You can also search for a location near you on a map.
Find a COVID-19 testing centre | healthpoint.co.nz (external link)
If you return a negative RAT
If you return a negative RAT, you must still report your result. You do not need to self-isolate.
If the test fails or is indeterminate
If a result is failed or indeterminate, you must get a PCR test. Tell the health professional who does the test that you have recently arrived in New Zealand. The PCR test sample provides valuable information about potential new variants coming into New Zealand.
PCR tests for overseas travellers are free.
Where to get a PCR test
Healthpoint lists testing centres by area. You can also search for a location near you on a map.
Find a COVID-19 testing centre | healthpoint.co.nz (external link)
If you develop symptoms
If you develop COVID-19 symptoms after arriving in New Zealand but test negative, you should isolate and take another RAT 48 hours later.
If your symptoms get worse you can call Healthline for free on:
- 0800 358 5453 — if you are calling from a New Zealand phone number
- +64 9 358 5453 — if you are using an International SIM
If you test positive after Day 6
If you have travelled to New Zealand for a holiday or other temporary stay and test positive after being here for 7 days or longer, you will need to:
- isolate for 7 days — you should have a plan for this
- source your own accommodation and pay for this (and meet your other costs)
- pay for your healthcare costs.
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