Covid 19
Waikato rolls out rapid antigen testing as labs reach capacity
The demand is causing a delay to process tests in the lab, with the DHB saying some tests may take up to seven days for a result.
How the Parliament protest unfolded on day 15
The behaviour by protesters outside Parliament has been condemned as "absolutely disgraceful" by police leaders today. Audio
Waikato third DHB to provide rapid antigen tests to community
Waikato is the latest area to roll out rapid antigen tests to combat increasing demand for Covid-19 testing.
The demand is causing delays in processing tests in the lab, with the DHB saying some… Audio
Two nurses on ward of 26 patients in shift at Auckland hospital
The ongoing staffing crunch is hitting those at the front lines of the Covid outbreak. Just two nurses were available to care for a ward of 26 patients at Auckland Hospital during one shift last week.
…Wellington business on edge of protest keen for help
Police and protesters have faced off yet again outside Parliament today, as the stand off enters a third week.
Three police officers have been taken to hospital after they were sprayed with an… Video, Audio
How has misinformation exploded during the pandemic?
So when did jumping on Google pass for actual scientific research? And why has a tsunami of disinformation exploded during the pandemic?
We've all heard of them, and we might even know someone who's… Video, Audio
Western Springs principal asks for shorter isolation, RATs
Shorter isolation periods and Rat tests for teachers could prevent a total return to online learning, according to an Auckland principal struggling to staff classes.
As Omicron cases grow in the… Video, Audio
Police boss details evening conflict at Parliament protest
Police Assistant Commissioner Richard Chambers told Checkpoint the conflict this evening was after protesters had moved a concrete block and police had to put it back.
"Obviously we sent some staff… Video, Audio
Covid-19: Advertising watchdog investigating antivax billboard
The advertising watchdog is looking into a billboard using the image of a Dunedin man who died after getting a Covid vaccine.
The anti-vax group Voices for Freedom has paid for the billboard… Audio
Wellington Mayor in high level talks on protest action
Wellington Mayor Andy Foster told Checkpoint he is in high level talks regarding the Parliament protest but would not detail who he is talking to.
He said he is talking with government and police… Video, Audio
Auckland Hospital nurses working extra to provide safe level of care
An Auckland Hospital nurse says his colleagues are working extra shifts or doing different jobs as Covid-19 takes a toll on staffing and case numbers rise.
Police criticise 'disgraceful' protesters after early morning conflict
The behaviour by protesters outside Parliament has been condemned as "absolutely disgraceful" by police leaders today.
The confrontation between police and protesters began early on Tuesday morning… Video, Audio
Long Covid: Concern over support as Air NZ refuses cover to ex-employee
The government is being urged to remove any impediments facing Long Covid sufferers seeking financial support after Air New Zealand declined injury cover to a sufferer it made redundant.
Covid-19 update: 2846 community cases, 143 in hospital
There are 2846 Covid-19 cases in the community today and 143 people in hospital with the virus, the Ministry of Health reports.
Children's Commissioner says occupation bound to have impact on kids
Children's Commissioner Judge Frances Eivers says the anti-mandate protest on Parliament grounds is no place for children who could be harmed in escalating tension. Audio
Covid-19 leaves schools short of teachers
Cases of Covid-19 among children and teachers are forcing schools to roster entire year groups home or offer online learning for those who want it.
Covid: England ending isolation laws and mass free testing
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced all Covid restrictions will end in England this week and free mass testing will stop from 1 April.
$140m new funding for Māori and Pacific Omicron response
Associate Minister of Health Peeni Henare says the government knows Omicron is likely to disproportionately affect Māori and Pasifika communities, so they're making sure they getting the support and…
Hundreds to miss out on procedures as two hospitals cut back on services
The decision was made at a high-level meeting yesterday, with the situation expected to continue for four weeks at two Auckland hospitals. Audio
Is home isolation stemming Covid spread? : Pasifika concerns
As Omicron infections escalate, so is concern from Pasifika outreach organisations about whether Government and public health initiatives endorsing home isolation, and community care are going to keep… Audio
