Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters says the charter plane that will bring New Zealanders home is "almost wheels-up" pending sign-off.
It's likely to leave within days.
It's still unclear what safety precautions will be taken for crew and passengers and what kind of quarantine might be required on their return.
Up to 40 Air New Zealand staff have volunteered to be part of the ten member cabin crew.
The union's head of aviation, Savage says whether any of them go depends on the safety assurances from the company.
Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield speaks to Susie Ferguson.
