After discovery of the first cases of local transmission for more than 100 days, New Zealand is implementing lockdowns again.
Auckland has started 72 hours of Level 3 lockdown and the rest of the country will go to Level 2 lockdown for three days.
It comes after four members of a single family in Auckland tested positive for Covid-19.
One more person was also confirmed positive after arriving from overseas last week.
Level 2 restricts public gatherings at 100 people, and Level 3 forbids major sports events.
That could jeopardize the final of the Super Rugby Aotearoa competition, which is scheduled for Auckland’s Eden Park on Sunday.
Public health officials predict the restrictions could be extended if the source of the infection is not found quickly.
New Zealand has had 102 Covid-free days with the only confirmed cases since coming from returning Kiwis from overseas.
Officials said there are ‘an additional four probable cases who are people with symptoms linked to the four community-based cases.’
"All of these probable cases are waiting test results," said Director General of Health Ashley Bloomfield.
Dr Bloomfield said about half of 200 ‘close contacts’ of the affected family have been traced and contacted.
Health officials say there is no evidence yet that the virus may have moved beyond the city but are taking all precautions.
Under the Auckland lockdown, residents may only leave home to buy essential supplies.
Written by Ray Montgomery, Asia Pacific editor
