Covid-19

Walking Te Araroa under the new COVID-19 Protection Framework

The Government has transitioned New Zealand to a new COVID-19 Protection Framework to control the spread of the virus in our country’s communities.

This framework introduces three traffic light levels – Red, Orange and Green – with different rules at each. It is applied regionally, with settings for each region changing based on vaccination rates, case numbers and other risk factors in that area.

It’s important that people walking Te Araroa understand the COVID-19 Protection Framework and what the traffic light settings are for the regions they are passing through.

The Government’s COVID-19 Traffic Light Map provides up to date information on traffic light settings in each region of New Zealand.

Is the full length of the trail walkable under the new framework? 

Yes! The new COVID-19 Protection Framework is expected to create more certainty for Te Araroa walkers.

While the Government hasn’t ruled out the use of regional border restrictions if New Zealand’s healthcare system comes under strain, the expectation is that they will be used sparingly and only in rare cases. 

Vaccination passes are not required to stay at DOC huts and campsites

The Department of Conservation (DOC) manages huts and campsites on public conservation land. DOC has announced that the huts, campsites and visitor centres it operates will be open at all of the traffic light settings, including Red and Orange. 

International walkers

The New Zealand Government's plan is to safely re-open our borders and develop new ways for people to travel to and from Aotearoa New Zealand. We expect international walkers to return to New Zealand from spring onwards.

COVID-19 safety

Last, but not least, make sure you continue to do your bit to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

  • Stay home if you are sick
  • Keep a record of where you have been 
  • Wear a face mask
  • Maintain good hygiene
  • Get vaccinated
  • Maintain physical distancing.

Please also take a moment to register on our Te Araroa registration page before starting your journey.

Page last updated: Apr 14, 2022, 3:30 PM