RATs for new 'return to work' approach

RATs for new 'return to work' approach
Prime minister Jacinda Ardern has provided updated mask and rapid antigen testing guidance.
Oliver Lewis
New Zealand will adopt a ‘test to return to work’ policy using rapid antigen tests (RATs) for critical workers, the government has announced.Prime minister Jacinda Ardern announced the change at a post-cabinet press conference on Tuesday.Close contacts of covid-19 cases are required to self-isolate at home for 10 days, according to current health advice. However, Ardern said the new policy would mean critical workers will be able to return to work after returning a negative RAT result.“This will minimise disruption to critical...

More Policy

How Pharmac's set-up risks higher health costs
Economy

How Pharmac's set-up risks higher health costs

Pharmac's fixed budget discourages use of cost-saving medicines common elsewhere.

Pattrick Smellie 23 Oct 2025
RBNZ and the curious case of prudential stacks
Opinion

Andy Macdonald: RBNZ and the curious case of prudential stacks

The end result of the RBNZ’s capital review will be both revealing and fascinating.

Andy Macdonald 21 Oct 2025
Asset recycling: privatisation or better housekeeping
Policy

Asset recycling: privatisation or better housekeeping

On asset recycling, Silvana Schenone cites Marie Kondo rather than Milton Friedman.

Dileepa Fonseka 20 Oct 2025
Open banking's red tape may stifle lenders' innovation: fintechs
Policy

Open banking's red tape may stifle lenders' innovation: fintechs

Fee-free open banking and levies may deter banks from innovating with new tech.

Andy Macdonald 17 Oct 2025