New Zealand – Nationwide application of COVID-19 red setting

​New Zealand Post, asks us to inform other Union member countries and their designated operators that the Government of New Zealand has announced the application of the red setting of the "traffic lights" COVID-19 protection framework throughout the country, with effect from 23:59 local time on 23 January 2022..

This decision was made in view of the confirmation of nine cases of the Omicron variant in the Nelson/Tasman region, followed by several other cases throughout the country, indicating that the Omicron outbreak is continuing to spread. The red setting has been imposed to protect New Zealand's vulnerable communities, to safeguard its health system and to slow the spread of the virus.

Therefore, COVID-19 safe practices apply throughout New Zealand. Where possible, staff are encouraged to work from home.

As a business entity that provides essential services, New Zealand Post will continue to operate under the red setting. Physical distancing measures (i.e. split shifts and a 2-metre distance between staff members) apply at New Zealand Post's operational sites, resulting in reduced capacity and a negative impact on operational performance in terms of processing, transport, sorting and delivery of mail.

With regard to customer service, the sending of CN 18 forms (Declaration concerning non-receipt (or receipt) of a postal item) and proof of delivery will be subject to significant delays, as New Zealand Post's customer service agents will be working from home without access to certain office facilities (e.g. printers).