17 Aug 2021 | 08:47 PM UTC
Cook Islands: Authorities increase risk level, halt flights through 23:59 Aug. 19 due to COVID-19 concerns
Cook Islands halts flights through 23:59 Aug. 19, tightens local restrictions due to COVID-19 concerns.
Event
Authorities in the Cook Islands have raised the COVID-19 alert level to "Level 2 - Reduce" and have enhanced local restrictions as of Aug. 17. The government decision follows the discovery of a COVID-19 case in New Zealand. Officials require physical distancing of 2 meters (6.5 feet) between people in public and 1 meter (3 feet) in workplaces. Authorities limit gatherings to 100 people, including at restaurants and hospitality venues. Public venues and businesses can continue to operate but must ensure physical distancing for customers and keep patrons' contact information. The government has also stopped outbound travel from Rarotonga to the outlying islands.
Travel Restrictions
Officials have halted flights from New Zealand through 23:59 Aug. 19, effectively ending all inbound international travel. Generally, outside of the current flight suspension, the government permits entry for all travelers who have spent the previous 14 days in New Zealand. Authorities require all entrants to complete an Online Contact Information Form within 72 hours before departure to the Cook Islands. Foreign arrivals must show a return airline ticket, pre-booked accommodation, and six-month validity on their passport; New Zealand passport holders can travel to the Cook Islands on a one-way ticket, and New Zealand and Australian passport holders must have a passport that is valid for at least seven days beyond their intended stay.
Advice
Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm travel arrangements. Consider delaying travel if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.
