03 Jun 2022 | 06:30 AM UTC
Cook Islands: Officials maintaining reduced COVID-19 measures territorywide as of June 3 /update 14
Cook Islands maintaining domestic COVID-19 controls as of June 3.
Event
Officials in the Cook Islands are maintaining eased COVID-19 restrictions as of June 3.
Domestic Measures
A facemask requirement remains for medical facilities. A facemask mandate for indoor public areas is in effect for Atiu, Manihiki, Rakahanga, Penrhyn, Mauke, Mitiaro, Mangaia, and Pukapuka islands. In Mauke, officials restrict gatherings to 50 people indoors and 100 people outside; exemptions are possible with government permission. The restriction does not apply to workplaces, churches, restaurants, or educational facilities.
Locally acquired COVID-19 cases and close contacts must self-quarantine, though the time frame can vary. Affected people will also likely have to undergo COVID-19 testing before leaving quarantine. Employers can apply for an Essential Worker Pass for essential employees considered close contacts of COVID-19 cases. The pass allows affected employees to travel between work and home, provided they receive a daily negative rapid antigen test (RAT) result. People who have recovered from COVID-19 can obtain a Green Freedom Pass, which allows the holder to forgo testing requirements and quarantine rules.
Travelers to outlying islands, except Aitutaki and Atiu, must continue to take a rapid antigen test (RAT) before departure. Some local island governments may continue to require a quarantine period for arrivals.
International Travel Restrictions
International flights are available from New Zealand. The government permits Cook Island citizens and permanent residents and fully vaccinated foreign nationals to enter the country. People with medical exemptions from vaccination or under 16 years old can also enter with permission. All arrivals must complete an online travel declaration 96 hours before departure.
Most arrivals can enter the territory without quarantine. Permitted unvaccinated children under five years, three months old and partially vaccinated children under age 12 can self-quarantine for five days, with testing on arrival and day five. The government charges for quarantine; fees are NZD 2,142 for the first adult, 825 for an additional adult, and 500 for children aged 12 and younger.
Advice
Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm domestic travel arrangements. Delay travel until border restrictions ease. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.
