New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said on Saturday that everyone entering the country from midnight Sunday must self isolate for 14 days in an effort to contain the spread of the new coronavirus.
People from small South Pacific island countries, which currently have no reported cases, will be exempted, Ardern said in a news conference. New Zealand has a large South Pacific islander population.
All cruise ships will also be told not to come to New Zealand until June 30, she said.
New Zealand has six confirmed cases and has not recorded any deaths.
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Friday called for an end from Monday to all non-essential gatherings of more than 500 people, including sporting and cultural events, and urged people to reconsider overseas trips.
While the request did not apply to businesses and public transport, some companies have asked staff to work from home.
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