Pursuant to clause 8(1) of the COVID-19 Public Health Response (Point-of-care Tests) Order 2021 (“Order”), I, Dr Ashley Bloomfield, Director-General of Health, being satisfied that:

1. the activity will not pose a material risk to the public health response to COVID-19; and
2. the authorisation is not inconsistent with the purpose of the COVID-19 Public Health Response Act 2020; and
3. the authorisation is no broader than is reasonably necessary to address the matters giving rise to it:

1. Authorise persons entering New Zealand to import or use Point of Care Tests (Tests) otherwise prohibited under clause 7 of the Order, subject to the conditions below.
2. The authorisation does not apply to importation of Tests to or through New Zealand via mail/courier. Customs will retain the ability to seize any unapproved Test attempting to enter the country via the post in accordance with the Customs and Excise Act 2018.
3. The authorisation is subject to the following conditions in accordance with clause 8(3):

1. the person is entering the country by air or sea;
2. the Tests were lawfully supplied overseas; and
3. they have a maximum of 20 tests in their luggage.

Once signed, this exemption will be effective as of 11.59pm on 27 February 2022.

Dated at Wellington this 27th day of February 2022.

Dr ASHLEY BLOOMFIELD, Director-General of Health.