Speaking at a regular Covid-19 press conference, Ardern said health authorities had reported nine cases of Omicron in Motueka in a single household. The family traveled to Auckland for a wedding, funeral, theme park and a tourist attraction last weekend, sending the country into the highest “red light” mode.
Ardern told reporters, “My wedding won’t take place first but I’m just joining many other New Zealanders who have had experiences like that as a result of the pandemic.”
When asked how she feels about her decision to cancel the wedding to be held this summer, Ardern replied: “Life is like that.”
Chris Hipkins, the nation’s minister for Covid-19 response, said, “Waiting until the end of February will increase New Zealand’s overall protection and slow the eventual spread of Omicron. No doubt. Undoubtedly, this is disappointing and will upset many holiday plans, but it’s important to clearly articulate these changes today so they have time to review them. “
Hipkins also said the New Zealand Cabinet had agreed to other precautionary measures, including reducing the interval between the second dose of the Covid-19 vaccine and the booster shot from six months to four months, and increasing the duration of the vaccine. The required length of stay for returning travelers is from seven to 10. days are managed by isolation and quarantine.
