29 Sep 2021 | 06:54 PM UTC
Cook Islands: Authorities extend domestic restrictions due to COVID-19 concerns; international commercial flights suspended through 23:59 Nov. 4 /update 5
Cook Islands extends domestic restrictions due to COVID-19 concerns; international commercial flights suspended through 23:59 Nov. 4.
Event
Officials in the Cook Islands have extended the suspension of inbound commercial passenger flights from New Zealand through at least 23:59 Nov. 4. The decision effectively halts nearly all inbound international travel, as the Cook Islands only permits entry for travelers who have spent the previous 14 days in New Zealand. However, officials have arranged two repatriation flights for citizens in areas of New Zealand under Level 2, where authorities believe the risk of COVID-19 community transmission is low, from Christchurch in October. Residents returning on the flights must obtain a negative COVID-19 test result and complete the Online Contact Information Form within 72 hours before departure. Travelers on repatriation flights must also undergo a seven-day quarantine at designated facilities.
Domestic Restrictions
Authorities in the Cook Islands have extended domestic restrictions indefinitely. The COVID-19 alert remains at Level 2 on a four-tier scale. 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; organizers must register gatherings of 25 or more people and keep guests' contact information.
Public venues and businesses can continue to operate but must ensure physical distancing for customers; owners are also encouraged to keep patrons' contact information. Travel between Rarotonga to outlying islands has resumed, but travelers must undergo health checks upon departure. Level-2 measures will remain in effect until New Zealand has gone two weeks without any reported COVID-19 activity.
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.
