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elf-isolation pilot: Proceeding in Christchurch under Alert Level change
• On 27 September, Cabinet agreed to the design parameters of the self-isolation pilot.
These parameters were restrictive, in line with public health advice at the time.
• Cabinet agreed that the pilot would be suspended in Christchurch the event of an Alert
Level change to 3 or 4, with participants already self-isolating continuing to do so, but all
other participants entering MIQ.
• I have confirmed with officials that the pilot will proceed in Auckland remaining at Alert
Level 3.
• Given the announcement of positive COVID-19 cases in Christchurch, officials sought
direction from the Reconnecting New Zealanders Ministerial Group as to whether the
pilot should proceed in Christchurch if it moves to Alert Level 3 during the pilot period (30
October to 22 December).
• Cabinet had agreed that significant operational decisions regarding the self-isolation pilot
be delegated to the Reconnecting New Zealanders Ministerial Group.
• We decided that it is appropriate for the pilot to proceed in Christchurch irrespective of
an Alert Level change, given the relatively low number of participants planned to self-
isolate in Christchurch, expected high levels of compliance from participants, and to
ensure consistency between pilot regions.
• I seek Cabinet’s agreement to this decision.
Recommendation
•
Agree that the self-isolation pilot proceed in Auckland and Christchurch under all Alert
Levels.