Prognosis

Ardern Extends Auckland Lockdown for 12 Days to Curb Virus

  • Cluster of infections grows to 30, extends beyond largest city
  • Decision on whether to delay election to be made in 48 hours
Health workers test people arriving at the Covid-19 testing facility in Otara town centre in Auckland, New Zealand on Aug. 14. Photographer: Fiona Goodall/Getty Images
Lock
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Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern extended the lockdown of New Zealand’s largest city Auckland for 12 days as authorities try to stamp out the nation’s first outbreak in more than three months.

Under the level 3 restrictions, people will be urged to stay home and consumer-facing businesses will be shuttered until Aug. 26. Across the country, level 2 restrictions that include social distancing and gathering limits, will also be extended until the same day.