The entire country of New Zealand is now on a strict three-day COVID lockdown on Tuesday due to the discovery of a single case of coronavirus infection in the community.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern explained the immediate lockdown is needed to avoid a possible COVID outbreak in her country.
“We have seen what happens elsewhere if we fail to get on top of it,” Ardern said.
“We only get one chance,” Ardern added.
Ardern said the infected person is a man who lives in Auckland.
She said the lockdown is needed as health experts trace the source of the infection.
Last August 12, officials of New Zealand revealed that they will soon ease border restrictions and will some vaccinated travelers to visit the country early next year.
Ardern said by next year foreign travelers who are not allowed to enter the country since 2020 can visit the country provided that they are fully vaccinated.
Ardern also said that starting in October, vaccinated New Zealanders returning to the country will be able to self-isolate at home and forgo the mandatory 14-day hotel quarantine currently in place.
While they are easing border, Ardern said borders would not return to their pre-pandemic routine, when travelers visiting New Zealand did not have to undergo quarantine or testing.
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