Travel around New Zealand

Ardern says travel around New Zealand will change. For the next 48 hours, air travel will be open so people can get home.

"After 48 hours we will be moving to air travel only applying to the transport of people undertaking essential services and the transport of freight," she said.

"Public transport will also begin to transition over the next 48 hours [and] will only be available for those working in essential services, for medical reasons, and to move essential goods - including ferry services between the North and South Island."

Schools

Schools will be closed from Tuesday, except for the children of essential workers. This will be temporary, and schools will close entirely from midnight Wednesday.



The school term break will be brought forward. Schools will establish ways to deliver teaching online and remotely.

Self-isolation

Ardern has asked all New Zealanders outside essential services to stay at home and stop interactions with people outside of the household.

"I understand that self-isolation is a daunting prospect. So we are being practical," she said.

"You can leave your home for fresh air, a walk, exercise. To take your children outside. But remember the simple principle. It must be solitary.

"We are asking that you only spend time with those you are in self-isolation with. And if you are outside, keep your distance from others. That means two metres at all times. This is the single most important thing we can do right now to stop further community transmission."