2 June 2021
C A
By email: [FYI request #15541 email]
Dear C A
Official Information Act Request: Current cycle threshold value used to perform the
PCR test
On 24 May 2021 you sent a request for information under the Official Information Act 1982 to
ESR as follows:
“1. What is the current Cycle Threshold value used to perform the PCR test for COVID19
2. Are you considering changing the Cycle Threshold?
3. Where is the best place to find out when any future changes to the Cycle Threshold occur
in New Zealand, is there an easier way to find this out than making an OIA each week?
(To be clear, I am anticipating the number of cycles to be lowered as other countries have
done as they have rolled out vaccinations which will have an effect on the data collection of
immunity levels after vaccinating).”
Our response to your request:
1. 40.
2. No.
3. We don’t have an answer to where you can find out changes to the cycle threshold. It
is not necessary to enquire with ESR every week as we have no intention of
changing our cycle threshold value cut-offs.
Your right to seek a review You have the right to seek an investigation and review by the Ombudsman of this response.
Information about how to make a complaint is available at
www.ombudsman.parliament.nz or freephone 0800 802 602.
Thank you for your request.
Yours sincerely
Jill Vintiner
Joint General Manager Health and Environment Group – Health
ESR