16 Mar 2020

Covid-19 hits NZ visitors as travel restrictions begin

From Checkpoint, 5:10 pm on 16 March 2020

The Ministry of Health is considering fines for people who refuse to self-isolate as the country ramps up its response to the global Covid-19 pandemic.

New travel restrictions came into effect at 1am Monday, meaning everyone arriving in the country - apart from those coming from the Pacific Islands - has to self-isolate for 14 days.

And as well as follow-up phone calls and spot checks, health officials are looking at tougher measures to make sure people follow the rules. For tourists who don't, the message is clear - 'you are not welcome here'. RNZ reporter Sarah Robson has the story.