Yesterday, more than 2500 international returnees are eligible to leave MIQ, as changes to MIQ requirements come into effect.
Following changes to the length of time international arrivals need to spend in MIQ, returnees who have been in MIQ for seven or more days were able to leave yesterday.
"More than 2400 of the eligible people left MIQ yesterday – about eight times more than we would normally see depart each day," says Brigadier Rose King, joint head of MIQ.
"This is the largest release in the history of MIQ, and a great logistical effort as we organise test results, health checks and transport back to the point of arrival for each person.
Overall, MIQ has helped more than 190,000 returnees come back to New Zealand during the COVID-19 pandemic so far.
"I want to thank all those returnees who are departing for their patience and cooperation. I also want to thank MIQ staff for their extraordinary effort. I’m immensely proud of the crucial role they play in protecting our communities from the further spread of COVID-19.
Yesterday's easing of MIQ requirements is part of the Government’s broader plan to re-open New Zealand safely and reconnect with the world.
The length of time international arrivals to New Zealand must spend in managed isolation has halved from 14 days to seven, followed by self-isolation until a negative ‘day nine’ test is received. This change was first announced by the Minister for COVID-19 Response on October 28, 2021.
