11 Mar 2022 | 08:43 PM UTC
Cook Islands: Authorities maintaining COVID-19 restrictions as of March 11 /update 10
Cook Islands continuing to enforce COVID-19 measures as of March 11.
Event
Cook Islands authorities continue to enforce a slate of COVID-19-related restrictions on domestic activity and international travel as of March 11.
Domestic Measures
The government classifies many establishments, including hospitality and entertainment venues, offices open to the public, enclosed retail outlets, and religious sites as high risk. Nevertheless, these venues can operate at full capacity if all patrons are fully vaccinated. All high-risk venues must ensure 1 meter (3 feet) physical distancing between persons, collect contact information, and appoint a COVID-19 officer. A requirement that facemasks be word in all indoor public areas remains in force. Officials limit attendance at all indoor and outdoor gatherings to up to 50 people; organizers may apply for an exemption from the Secretary of Health to hold gatherings with more than 50 people. The measures does not apply to business-related functions. Public venues and businesses must ensure physical distancing for customers; owners are also encouraged to keep patrons' contact information. Air and sea travel from Rarotonga to the outlying islands, except Aitutaki, is restricted to air crew members engaged in cargo transport; however, passengers are allowed to travel from the outlying islands to Rarotonga.
International Travel Restrictions
International flights are available from New Zealand. The government permits fully vaccinated travelers to enter the country, but all inbound passengers must stay in New Zealand at least 10 days before departure. People with medical exemptions from vaccination or under five years old can also enter the country with permission. All arrivals must complete an online travel declaration 96 hours before departure and obtain a negative PCR test within 48 hours before departure.
Most arrivals can enter the Cook Islands without quarantine. Unvaccinated arrivals must quarantine at managed facilities for 10 days with testing on arrival and days five and nine. Permitted unvaccinated children under age 12 and citizens and permanent residents with medical vaccine exemptions 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.
