This archive report was first published on 8 June 2020.
On June 8, 2020, New Zealand marked a major victory in its battle against Covid-19, with the country's final active case being cleared and released from isolation.
According to health authorities, the milestone was a result of the nation's strict seven-week lockdown, which ended last month after the virus was contained.
"Having no active cases for the first time since February 28 is certainly a significant mark in our journey but, as we've previously said, ongoing vigilance against Covid-19 will continue to be essential," said Ashley Bloomfield, director-general of the health department.
With a population of five million, New Zealand has had 1,154 confirmed cases and 22 deaths since the pandemic began.
The country's Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, is expected to announce later that New Zealand will move to alert Level 1, the lowest rating on its four-tier virus response system, this week.
Under the change, international border restrictions will remain in place, but the final domestic curbs – such as limits on public gatherings and mandatory social distancing – will be removed.
