New Zealand has stated that it has currently eliminated the coronavirus by stopping community transmission of Covid-19. The country has only reported cases in single digits for days, and on Sunday, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the virus was “currently” eliminated.

What are the officials saying?

The news emerges as New Zealand transitions out of its strictest level of social restrictions; officials have warned that this does not mean a total end to new Covid-19 cases and does not warrant complacency.

What does the news mean for New Zealand?

From Tuesday, educational institutes, essential businesses and healthcare sector will become operational to some extent. However, most people will still be required to stay at home at all times, strictly avoiding social interactions.