The Coronavirus has returned to New Zealand. Jacinda Ardern is calling it a 'failure of the system'. What about the return of hate crimes? Isn't this a failure of the leadership? WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay has a report.

Gravitas: Has Jacinda Ardern failed as a leader?

New Zealand has recorded three new cases of the coronavirus this week as quarantine breaches and other failures undermined public confidence days after it declared itself among the first countries in the world to be free of the virus.

The new infections are a set back to New Zealand, which lifted all social and economic restrictions except border controls last week.

Furthermore, an unarmed policeman was shot and killed on Friday in Auckland street, becoming the first officer to die on duty for more than a decade.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern offered condolences to the officer's family and police colleagues. "This case represents an unacceptable failure of the system," she said. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-records-two-cases-of-coronavirus-in-returning-travellers-306173">Also Read:&nbsp;New Zealand records two cases of coronavirus in returning travellers</a>

The death of the cop comes just a day after parliament voted to further tighten New Zealand's firearms laws in the wake of last year's Christchurch Mosque&nbsp;massacre, when a lone gunman murdered 51 Muslim worshippers.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-has-jacinda-ardern-failed-as-a-leader-307192/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

After the Christchurch Mosque massacre, Ardern swiftly shifted the focus to online hate. She questioned how Facebook could allow the mass shooting to be broadcasted live and started a global movement to end online hate.

Ardern was hailed at home and outside as a model for other leaders. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jacinda-ardern-becomes-new-zealands-most-popular-prime-minister-after-covid-19-response-poll-299424">Also Read: Jacinda Ardern becomes New Zealand's most popular prime minister after COVID-19 response</a>

However, cop's death has cracked New Zealand's pitch of calling itself a well-administered country.

Experts say there has been an increase in hate crimes and xenophobia since march 2019 with at least 15 per cent of New Zealand's population being targeted.

According to one expert, there are at least 60 to 80 far-right groups in New Zealand. Recently, far-right nationalists and anti-immigration campaigners have become more active in the country and hate speech has increased. 
 
(With inputs from Reuters)

New Zealand has recorded three new cases of the coronavirus this week as quarantine breaches and other failures undermined public confidence days after it declared itself among the first countries in the world to be free of the virus.

New Zealand has recorded three new cases of the coronavirus this week as quarantine breaches and other failures undermined public confidence days after it declared itself among the first countries in the world to be free of the virus. The new infections are a set back to New Zealand, which lifted all social and economic restrictions except border controls last week. Furthermore, an unarmed policeman was shot and killed on Friday in Auckland street, becoming the first officer to die on duty for more than a decade. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern offered condolences to the officer's family and police colleagues. "This case represents an unacceptable failure of the system," she said. Also Read: New Zealand records two cases of coronavirus in returning travellers The death of the cop comes just a day after parliament voted to further tighten New Zealand's firearms laws in the wake of last year's Christchurch Mosque massacre, when a lone gunman murdered 51 Muslim worshippers. After the Christchurch Mosque massacre, Ardern swiftly shifted the focus to online hate. She questioned how Facebook could allow the mass shooting to be broadcasted live and started a global movement to end online hate. Ardern was hailed at home and outside as a model for other leaders. Also Read: Jacinda Ardern becomes New Zealand's most popular prime minister after COVID-19 response However, cop's death has cracked New Zealand's pitch of calling itself a well-administered country. Experts say there has been an increase in hate crimes and xenophobia since march 2019 with at least 15 per cent of New Zealand's population being targeted. According to one expert, there are at least 60 to 80 far-right groups in New Zealand. Recently, far-right nationalists and anti-immigration campaigners have become more active in the country and hate speech has increased. (With inputs from Reuters)

What's the reality beneath 'picture-perfect' New Zealand?

New Zealand recorded on Thursday its third new case of the coronavirus this week as quarantine breaches and other failures undermined public confidence days after it declared itself among the first countries in the world to be free of the virus.

The new case is a man in his 60s who flew in from Lahore in Pakistan, via Doha and Melbourne on June 11 and is in quarantine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-free-new-zealand-allows-two-women-from-uk-to-exit-quarantine-early-306428">'COVID-free' New Zealand allows two women from UK to exit quarantine early</a>

It comes after two women who had arrived from Britain and were given permission to leave quarantine early on compassionate grounds tested positive.

The government has been forced to explain why the women were let out without proper testing, and questions were raised about whether quarantine facilities are being properly managed.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Wednesday called in the military to oversee the facilities and to manage border defences.

"I know the case of these two women will have upset people ... I am certainly upset by it," Director General of Health Ashley Bloomfield told a news conference on Thursday.

"I apologise that we ended up in this position," he said.

New Zealand's border is closed to everyone except returning citizens though some exceptions have been made for business and compassionate reasons. Everyone has to go into quarantine.

In response to the case of the two women, the government has suspended all exemptions to quarantine rules and said no one is to leave the isolated hotels where people are kept unless they have been tested.

Contact tracing is underway for the hundreds of people who may have come into contact with the three new cases.

Only last week, New Zealand trumpeted its achievement of becoming one of the first countries to eliminate the novel coronavirus and return to normal with the lifting all social and economic restrictions except the border controls.

Bloomfield said he was convinced there had been no community transmission linked to the new cases. 
&nbsp;

New Zealand recorded on Thursday its third new case of the coronavirus this week as quarantine breaches and other failures undermined public confidence days after it declared itself among the first countries in the world to be free of the virus.

New Zealand recorded on Thursday its third new case of the coronavirus this week as quarantine breaches and other failures undermined public confidence days after it declared itself among the first countries in the world to be free of the virus. The new case is a man in his 60s who flew in from Lahore in Pakistan, via Doha and Melbourne on June 11 and is in quarantine. Also read | 'COVID-free' New Zealand allows two women from UK to exit quarantine early It comes after two women who had arrived from Britain and were given permission to leave quarantine early on compassionate grounds tested positive. The government has been forced to explain why the women were let out without proper testing, and questions were raised about whether quarantine facilities are being properly managed. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Wednesday called in the military to oversee the facilities and to manage border defences. "I know the case of these two women will have upset people ... I am certainly upset by it," Director General of Health Ashley Bloomfield told a news conference on Thursday. "I apologise that we ended up in this position," he said. New Zealand's border is closed to everyone except returning citizens though some exceptions have been made for business and compassionate reasons. Everyone has to go into quarantine. In response to the case of the two women, the government has suspended all exemptions to quarantine rules and said no one is to leave the isolated hotels where people are kept unless they have been tested. Contact tracing is underway for the hundreds of people who may have come into contact with the three new cases. Only last week, New Zealand trumpeted its achievement of becoming one of the first countries to eliminate the novel coronavirus and return to normal with the lifting all social and economic restrictions except the border controls. Bloomfield said he was convinced there had been no community transmission linked to the new cases.

Fresh coronavirus cases in New Zealand amid breach of quarantine measures

An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.4 jolted 705 km NE of Opotiki, New Zealand at 12:49:52 GMT on Thursday, the US Geological Survey said.

The U.S. Geological Survey said the epicentre, with a depth of 33.0 km, was initially determined to be at 33.513 degrees south latitude and 177.192 degrees west longitude.

The government agency GNS Science is still evaluating the tsunami threat from the quake.

(With inputs from agencies)

An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.4 jolted 705 km NE of Opotiki, New Zealand at 12:49:52 GMT on Thursday, the US Geological Survey said. The U.S. Geological Survey said the epicentre, with a depth of 33.

An earthquake with a magnitude of 7.4 jolted 705 km NE of Opotiki, New Zealand at 12:49:52 GMT on Thursday, the US Geological Survey said. The U.S. Geological Survey said the epicentre, with a depth of 33.0 km, was initially determined to be at 33.513 degrees south latitude and 177.192 degrees west longitude. The government agency GNS Science is still evaluating the tsunami threat from the quake. (With inputs from agencies)

Magnitude 7.4 earthquake hits 705 km north-east of Opotiki, New Zealand

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has described as an “unacceptable failure” after a slip up allowed two people with coronavirus to move around the country.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has described as an “unacceptable failure” after a slip up allowed two people with coronavirus to move around the country. Ardern said the infected person should never have been allowed to leave. "We require not one but two tests to be undertaken at those facilities. ..it did not, and there are no excuses," she said. She further said the defence force will now oversee the country's quarantine facilities and strengthen border requirements. New Zealand on Tuesday lost its COVID-free status when two women who had been given permission to leave quarantine early on compassionate grounds after arriving from Britain tested positive for the coronavirus. Also read: New Zealand's last active patient of coronavirus recovers, country now has zero cases Ardern said she was appointing the Assistant Chief of Defence, Air Commodore Digby Webb, to oversee all quarantine and to manage isolation facilities, including the processes of exiting people from these facilities. Ardern said Webb can seek access to military logistics, its operational expertise and, if needed, personnel, for running of the quarantine facilities. She added that an audit would be done to make sure all processes in place are followed and any changes needed can be made to further strengthen the border facilities. Also read: New Zealand lifts lockdown; goes back to new normal "I cannot allow the gains we have all made to be squandered by processes that are not followed," Ardern said at a news conference in parliament. New Zealand had trumpeted its achievement last week of becoming one of the first countries in the world to eliminate COVID-19 and return to pre-pandemic normality, lifting all social and economic restrictions except border controls. The two women who arrived from Britain on June 7 went into compulsory quarantine after landing, but had been given special permission to leave the facility early to see their dying parent, even though one had symptoms which she attributed to a pre-existing condition.

'COVID-free' New Zealand allows two women from UK to exit quarantine early

Breaking the 24-day streak of no cases of coronavirus, New Zealand has recorded two new COVID-19 cases from returning overseas travellers. Both the new cases have been diagnosed as a result of recent travel from the UK, The Guardian reported quoting the country's health officials.

Breaking the 24-day streak of no cases of coronavirus, New Zealand has recorded two new COVID-19 cases from returning overseas travellers. Both the new cases have been diagnosed as a result of recent travel from the UK, The Guardian reported quoting the country's health officials. Both the new cases are related, the report added. More details will be given at a news conference in two hours. The New Zealand government recently declared the country coronavirus free and removed most of the restrictions. However, the country’s top health official said at the time that there would inevitably be more cases as new arrivals entered the country. New Zealanders, their families, and particular essential workers are the only people currently permitted to enter the country. They must stay in government-run quarantine for two weeks, during which time they will be tested twice for the virus. The country has recorded less than 1,500 confirmed cases of Covid-19, and 22 deaths, after a strict and early national lockdown.

New Zealand records two cases of coronavirus in returning travellers

New Zealand said on Tuesday that it has two new cases of the coronavirus, both related to recent travel from the UK

New Zealand no longer COVID free, confirms two new cases

Artists in Syria, Britain, America, Germany, Pakistan, Kenya, and more countries are showing their solidarity towards the 'Black lives Matter' campaign by painting murals and graffiti of George Floyd as a tribute to him.

Graffiti in support of George floyd has popped us globally

Filming the sequel of James Cameron's sci-fi blockbuster 'Avatar' will bring hundreds of jobs and millions of dollars to New Zealand after it ended its coronavirus outbreak, the film's producer told media as production resumed on Monday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/avatar-2-crew-resumes-shooting-in-new-zealand-opposition-calls-it-political-favoritism-303242" hreflang="en">Avatar 2 crew resumes shooting in New Zealand; opposition calls it political favoritism</a> 
 
The film`s crew, including director Cameron and producer Jon Landau, was given special permission to fly to New Zealand two weeks ago, even though its borders are closed to keep out the coronavirus, stirring some grumbling about unfair treatment.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/avatar-2-james-cameron-teases-photos-videos-from-the-much-anticipated-sequel-272865" hreflang="en">Avatar 2: James Cameron teases photos, videos from the much-anticipated sequel</a> 
 
But Landau said New Zealand had much to gain. "This one product alone is going to hire 400 New Zealanders to work on it," Landau told 1News after coming out of a hotel in Wellington where he and his colleagues have been in quarantine since they arrived.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/james-camerons-avatar-2-has-a-budget-of-over-rs-7500-crore-making-it-the-most-expensive-film-298681" hreflang="en">James Cameron's 'Avatar 2' has a budget of over Rs 7500 crore, making it the most expensive film</a> 
 
"We're going to spend, in the next five months alone, over $70 million here," he said. Filming was suspended in March, shortly before New Zealand went into a strict coronavirus lockdown. 
 
The lockdown smothered the outbreak and last week, New Zealand lifted all restrictions except border controls after declaring it was free of the virus, one of the first countries in the world to return to pre-pandemic normality. 
 
Cameron, Landau and dozens of crew members working on the 'Avatar'&nbsp;sequel were allowed back on economic grounds, which critics said was unfair while families are still separated and businesses are struggling without key staff. 
 
The film is among a handful of productions getting going in New Zealand, which hopes to win more film business after its successful campaign against the coronavirus. "The opportunities are immense," Landau said. 
"We are just the wedge in the door that hopefully unlocks a lot for the economy.” 
New Zealand`s mountains, meadows and forests were made famous by "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy and have drawn a growing number of major film productions over recent years.

Filming the sequel of James Cameron's sci-fi blockbuster 'Avatar' will bring hundreds of jobs and millions of dollars to New Zealand after it ended its coronavirus outbreak, the film's producer told media as production resumed on Monday.

Filming the sequel of James Cameron's sci-fi blockbuster 'Avatar' will bring hundreds of jobs and millions of dollars to New Zealand after it ended its coronavirus outbreak, the film's producer told media as production resumed on Monday. Also read: Avatar 2 crew resumes shooting in New Zealand; opposition calls it political favoritism The film`s crew, including director Cameron and producer Jon Landau, was given special permission to fly to New Zealand two weeks ago, even though its borders are closed to keep out the coronavirus, stirring some grumbling about unfair treatment. Also read: Avatar 2: James Cameron teases photos, videos from the much-anticipated sequel But Landau said New Zealand had much to gain. "This one product alone is going to hire 400 New Zealanders to work on it," Landau told 1News after coming out of a hotel in Wellington where he and his colleagues have been in quarantine since they arrived. Also read: James Cameron's 'Avatar 2' has a budget of over Rs 7500 crore, making it the most expensive film "We're going to spend, in the next five months alone, over $70 million here," he said. Filming was suspended in March, shortly before New Zealand went into a strict coronavirus lockdown. The lockdown smothered the outbreak and last week, New Zealand lifted all restrictions except border controls after declaring it was free of the virus, one of the first countries in the world to return to pre-pandemic normality. Cameron, Landau and dozens of crew members working on the 'Avatar' sequel were allowed back on economic grounds, which critics said was unfair while families are still separated and businesses are struggling without key staff. The film is among a handful of productions getting going in New Zealand, which hopes to win more film business after its successful campaign against the coronavirus. "The opportunities are immense," Landau said. "We are just the wedge in the door that hopefully unlocks a lot for the economy.” New Zealand`s mountains, meadows and forests were made famous by "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy and have drawn a growing number of major film productions over recent years.

'Avatar' sequel resumes filming in coronavirus-free New Zealand

It is estimated that in total more than 20,000 people marched across New Zealand, with some 5,000 taking to the streets of Wellington.

BLM Protests: Thousands of protesters take a knee in Auckland

Thousands of people took the knee outside the US consulate in Auckland Sunday as New Zealanders demonstrated for a second week to support the Black Lives Matter movement and highlight local discrimination issues.

As Michael Jackson's "They Don't Care About Us" played in the background, the protesters chanted "No justice, no peace" and "Ain't no power like the power of the people, because the power of the people don't stop".

In Wellington, more than 2,000 people marched on parliament after gathering in the city centre to hear speeches on racial bias within the police, New Zealand's high Maori imprisonment rates and the push to remove statues of colonisers.

The city of Hamilton has already torn down a statue of the colonial military commander it was named after following threats from anti-racism protesters to topple the bronze sculpture of Captain John Fane Charles Hamilton, who they accused of murder.

The protests are part of a worldwide movement following the killing in the United States of African-American man George Floyd who died after a white policeman knelt on his neck for several minutes.

"George Floyd doesn't have any more breaths left, it's our job to ensure that wasn't in vain," social justice activist Julia Whaipooti told the crowd in Auckland.

Auckland University social sciences professor Camille Nakhid said there was a "knee on the neck" of indigenous people and people of colour throughout New Zealand.

"We have longer waiting lines out of hospital. We are less likely to get medicines that we need... when they gentrify our neighbourhoods and we have to move to suburbs that have poor transportation, less access to employment, less access to healthcare, that is a knee on our necks," she added.

"Our indigenous people, our black people, our people of colour... we see you, we acknowledge you. Let us collectively put our arms around each other, embrace each other, and help push those damn knees off our necks."

Thousands of people took the knee outside the US consulate in Auckland Sunday as New Zealanders demonstrated for a second week to support the Black Lives Matter movement and highlight local discrimination issues.

Thousands of people took the knee outside the US consulate in Auckland Sunday as New Zealanders demonstrated for a second week to support the Black Lives Matter movement and highlight local discrimination issues. As Michael Jackson's "They Don't Care About Us" played in the background, the protesters chanted "No justice, no peace" and "Ain't no power like the power of the people, because the power of the people don't stop". In Wellington, more than 2,000 people marched on parliament after gathering in the city centre to hear speeches on racial bias within the police, New Zealand's high Maori imprisonment rates and the push to remove statues of colonisers. The city of Hamilton has already torn down a statue of the colonial military commander it was named after following threats from anti-racism protesters to topple the bronze sculpture of Captain John Fane Charles Hamilton, who they accused of murder. The protests are part of a worldwide movement following the killing in the United States of African-American man George Floyd who died after a white policeman knelt on his neck for several minutes. "George Floyd doesn't have any more breaths left, it's our job to ensure that wasn't in vain," social justice activist Julia Whaipooti told the crowd in Auckland. Auckland University social sciences professor Camille Nakhid said there was a "knee on the neck" of indigenous people and people of colour throughout New Zealand. "We have longer waiting lines out of hospital. We are less likely to get medicines that we need... when they gentrify our neighbourhoods and we have to move to suburbs that have poor transportation, less access to employment, less access to healthcare, that is a knee on our necks," she added. "Our indigenous people, our black people, our people of colour... we see you, we acknowledge you. Let us collectively put our arms around each other, embrace each other, and help push those damn knees off our necks."

New Zealand protesters take knee outside US consulate

New Zealand has joined the list of countries that are removing statues in the wake of anti-racism protests as&nbsp;its city Hamilton brought down the statue of a colonial military commander.&nbsp;

A crane toppled the bronze sculpture of Captain John Fane Charles Hamilton on Friday morning after requests from local Maori and warnings from anti-racism demonstrators.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/suppression-of-truth-triggers-violence-falling-statues-tell-a-story-305228">Suppression of truth triggers violence - falling statues tell a story</a>

A small group of people present there cheered as the statue was being pulled down.&nbsp;

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/topple-the-racists-a-map-showing-all-of-the-racist-statues-in-britain-305219">'Topple the Racists': A map showing all of the 'racist' statues in Britain</a>

Hamilton City Council acknowledged that the treatment of the statue was part of an effort to get done with monuments, landmarks "which are seen to represent cultural disharmony and oppression".&nbsp;

"I know many people -– in fact, a growing number of people –- find the statue personally and culturally offensive," mayor Paula Southgate said.

"We can't ignore what is happening all over the world and nor should we. At a time when we are trying to build tolerance and understanding... I don't think the statue helps us to bridge those gaps."

Hamilton, a naval commander, fought indigenous Maori, who were defending their land against the British in the 19th century.

In 1864, Hamilton died at the Battle of Pukehinahina, after a group of Maori successfully defended themselves against British troops, despite being outnumbered.&nbsp;

Anti-racism protesters vowed to remove this statue that came into existence in 2013, with activist Taitimu Maipi calling Hamilton a murderer.

"How can we accept that he's a hero when he's a monster who led battles," Maipi had said, reported Waikato Times.&nbsp;

There has been a global outrage against statues and other monuments on names of people, who were seen as icons of slavey and oppression after the death of George Floyd, a black man, in the US while in police custody.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

New Zealand has joined the list of countries that are removing statues in the wake of anti-racism protests as its city Hamilton brought down the statue of a colonial military commander.

New Zealand has joined the list of countries that are removing statues in the wake of anti-racism protests as its city Hamilton brought down the statue of a colonial military commander. A crane toppled the bronze sculpture of Captain John Fane Charles Hamilton on Friday morning after requests from local Maori and warnings from anti-racism demonstrators. Also read | Suppression of truth triggers violence - falling statues tell a story A small group of people present there cheered as the statue was being pulled down. Also read | 'Topple the Racists': A map showing all of the 'racist' statues in Britain Hamilton City Council acknowledged that the treatment of the statue was part of an effort to get done with monuments, landmarks "which are seen to represent cultural disharmony and oppression". "I know many people -– in fact, a growing number of people –- find the statue personally and culturally offensive," mayor Paula Southgate said. "We can't ignore what is happening all over the world and nor should we. At a time when we are trying to build tolerance and understanding... I don't think the statue helps us to bridge those gaps." Hamilton, a naval commander, fought indigenous Maori, who were defending their land against the British in the 19th century. In 1864, Hamilton died at the Battle of Pukehinahina, after a group of Maori successfully defended themselves against British troops, despite being outnumbered. Anti-racism protesters vowed to remove this statue that came into existence in 2013, with activist Taitimu Maipi calling Hamilton a murderer. "How can we accept that he's a hero when he's a monster who led battles," Maipi had said, reported Waikato Times. There has been a global outrage against statues and other monuments on names of people, who were seen as icons of slavey and oppression after the death of George Floyd, a black man, in the US while in police custody.

New Zealand: Controversial colonist's statue brought down

Nine countries that defeated the novel coronavirus!

Life for New Zealanders returned to normal on Tuesday (June 9) as the government lifted all social distancing restrictions except for border controls, after declaring it was free of the coronavirus.

New Zealanders enjoy life back to normal after social distancing restrictions lifted

It has been 17 days since the last new case was reported in New Zealand, and Monday also marked the first time since late February that there have been no active cases.

No new cases of Coronavirus in New Zealand

Air New Zealand will be nimbler, fly fewer passengers and routes, and may cut more jobs as it targets a return to "healthy profits" by 2022, its chief executive said as he navigates the airline through the coronavirus crisis.

Greg Foran laid out an 800-day plan to customers and staff under which the national flag carrier will look at how to further cut labour costs, including leave without pay, reduced hours or possibly laying off more people.

"We must first survive, then revive and finally thrive," Foran said in an email to staff and customers, as he forecast revenue for the next financial year to more than halve from recent levels.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealands-last-active-patient-of-coronavirus-recovers-country-now-has-zero-cases-304099">Also read:&nbsp;New Zealand's last active patient of coronavirus recovers, country now has zero cases</a>

Shares of the airline surged 11% to NZ$1.82, its highest in almost three months.

Airlines have slashed thousands of jobs and set aside cash for impairments on aircraft as the coronavirus damaged demand amid global lockdowns. Even as countries re-open, profits may be threatened by people refraining from travel and lower fares due to discounts.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) said last week that global airlines cut domestic fares by an average 23% in May, and previously warned traffic would not return to pre-crisis levels until at least 2023.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-airlines-secures-1-billion-additional-credit-after-rights-issue-304149">Also read:&nbsp;Singapore Airlines secures $1 billion additional credit after rights issue</a>

Foran envisions Air New Zealand will be 70% of its pre-COVID-19 size by August 2022 and hinted at further layoffs as the second phase of a cost-cutting plan, to save around NZ$150 million ($98 million), began.

"I am really sorry we are in a situation of needing to reduce our wages bills further, but I believe this is what we need to do with some urgency," he said.

The company has ramped up domestic capacity to 55% of normal levels as New Zealand eases curbs after containing the outbreak, but is not betting on a return to long haul flying until next year.

Air New Zealand will be nimbler, fly fewer passengers and routes, and may cut more jobs as it targets a return to "healthy profits" by 2022, its chief executive said as he navigates the airline through the coronavirus crisis.

Air New Zealand will be nimbler, fly fewer passengers and routes, and may cut more jobs as it targets a return to "healthy profits" by 2022, its chief executive said as he navigates the airline through the coronavirus crisis. Greg Foran laid out an 800-day plan to customers and staff under which the national flag carrier will look at how to further cut labour costs, including leave without pay, reduced hours or possibly laying off more people. "We must first survive, then revive and finally thrive," Foran said in an email to staff and customers, as he forecast revenue for the next financial year to more than halve from recent levels. Also read: New Zealand's last active patient of coronavirus recovers, country now has zero cases Shares of the airline surged 11% to NZ$1.82, its highest in almost three months. Airlines have slashed thousands of jobs and set aside cash for impairments on aircraft as the coronavirus damaged demand amid global lockdowns. Even as countries re-open, profits may be threatened by people refraining from travel and lower fares due to discounts. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) said last week that global airlines cut domestic fares by an average 23% in May, and previously warned traffic would not return to pre-crisis levels until at least 2023. Also read: Singapore Airlines secures $1 billion additional credit after rights issue Foran envisions Air New Zealand will be 70% of its pre-COVID-19 size by August 2022 and hinted at further layoffs as the second phase of a cost-cutting plan, to save around NZ$150 million ($98 million), began. "I am really sorry we are in a situation of needing to reduce our wages bills further, but I believe this is what we need to do with some urgency," he said. The company has ramped up domestic capacity to 55% of normal levels as New Zealand eases curbs after containing the outbreak, but is not betting on a return to long haul flying until next year.

''Survive, Revive, Thrive'': Air New Zealand's 800-day runway to healthy profits

From London to New Zealand, people join in on 'Black Lives Matter' protests

Two hikers who got lost in an area of New Zealand wilderness have been found with only minor injuries 18 days after they set out.

Jessica O'Connor and Dion Reynolds planned to go for about five days when they went into Kahurangi National Park on the South Island on May 9 -- for filming The Lord of the Rings trilogy.

At more than 1.1 million acres, Kahurangi is New Zealand's second-largest national park.

The two lost their way and ran out of food a couple of days later.

They were reported missing by a friend on 18 May, after which a team of 50 people was brought it. The team included give tracking experts, three dog teams and two helicopter crews.

The pair chose to stay in one place and were eventually rescued by a military helicopter after crews spotted smoke from a fire they had lit.

The helicopter took them to Nelson Airport where medics found they had suffered only minor injuries, St John Ambulance spokeswoman Ngaire Jones said. They were then taken to Nelson Hospital.

Two hikers who got lost in an area of New Zealand wilderness have been found with only minor injuries 18 days after they set out. Jessica O'Connor and Dion Reynolds planned to go for about five days when they went into Kahurangi National Park on the South Island on May 9 -- for filming The Lord of the Rings trilogy.

Two hikers who got lost in an area of New Zealand wilderness have been found with only minor injuries 18 days after they set out. Jessica O'Connor and Dion Reynolds planned to go for about five days when they went into Kahurangi National Park on the South Island on May 9 -- for filming The Lord of the Rings trilogy. At more than 1.1 million acres, Kahurangi is New Zealand's second-largest national park. The two lost their way and ran out of food a couple of days later. They were reported missing by a friend on 18 May, after which a team of 50 people was brought it. The team included give tracking experts, three dog teams and two helicopter crews. The pair chose to stay in one place and were eventually rescued by a military helicopter after crews spotted smoke from a fire they had lit. The helicopter took them to Nelson Airport where medics found they had suffered only minor injuries, St John Ambulance spokeswoman Ngaire Jones said. They were then taken to Nelson Hospital.

Lost hikers found after over two weeks in New Zealand wilderness

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who has a reputation for keeping her cool in the face of a crisis, was undaunted by an earthquake that struck the capital Wellington on Monday while she was doing a live TV interview, and calmly continued with the programme.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who has a reputation for keeping her cool in the face of a crisis, was undaunted by an earthquake that struck the capital Wellington on Monday while she was doing a live TV interview, and calmly continued with the programme. Capital Wellington and nearby areas were shaken by a 5.8 magnitude earthquake as the live interview was underway. Ardern was speaking on a live TV interview at the time from the parliament building, called the Beehive. "We’re just having a bit of an earthquake here, Ryan...," she told the host of the show Ryan Bridge, as she, the camera and other things around her shook. "Quite a decent shake here...if you see things moving behind me. The Beehive moves a little more than most," she said. Ardern assured the host that she was safe and the interview resumed. "We are fine, I'm not under any hanging lights and I look like I am in a structurally strong place," she added. The video was soon viral on social media. Although the quake caused no damages or injuries were reported, it lasted for more than 30 seconds and caused panic in Wellington with several people in offices and homes getting under their tables for cover.

Watch: New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern remains cool as earthquake strikes during live interview

An earthquake struck near New Zealand's capital on Monday (May 25) morning, shaking many residents including Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern who continued with a live TV interview at the parliament building. The 5.8 magnitude earthquake was 37 kms deep and the epicenter was 30 km northwest of Levin, a city in New Zealand's North Island close to the capital Wellington, according to Geonet.

Jacinda Ardern stays cool as earthquake rattles New Zealand capital

A sequel to James Cameron's sci-fi movie blockbuster '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/avatar-2-james-cameron-teases-photos-videos-from-the-much-anticipated-sequel-272865">Avatar</a>'&nbsp;will go back into production next week for the first time since it was shuttered by worldwide efforts to contain the coronavirus, producer Jon Landau said on Friday. 
 
Film and TV production came to halt around the globe in mid-March but is slowly returning in some countries including New Zealand, where the 'Avatar'&nbsp;sequel is being filmed.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CAdy0QNpwLP/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CAdy0QNpwLP/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CAdy0QNpwLP/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CAdy0QNpwLP/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Our #Avatar sets are ready — and we couldn’t be more excited to be headed back to New Zealand next week. Check out the Matador, a high speed forward command vessel (bottom) and the Picador jetboat (top) — can’t wait to share more.</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jonplandau/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Jon Landau</a> (@jonplandau) on <time datetime="2020-05-21T21:47:29+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">May 21, 2020 at 2:47pm PDT</time>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Our #Avatar sets are ready — and we couldn’t be more excited to be headed back to New Zealand next week," Landau wrote on Instagram beneath a photo of two boats on the set. Landau identified them as the Matador, a high-speed forward command vessel, and the Picador, a jetboat.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/james-camerons-avatar-2-has-a-budget-of-over-rs-7500-crore-making-it-the-most-expensive-film-298681">James Cameron's 'Avatar 2' has a budget of over Rs 7500 crore, making it the most expensive film</a> 
 
Authorities in New Zealand, where coronavirus slowed dramatically after the government enforced a strict lockdown, have approved film industry safeguards for resuming productions. Each set needs a permit to bring people back to work. 
 
Released in 2009, 'Avatar' had been the highest-grossing movie of all time until July 2019 when it was overtaken by superhero flick 'Avengers: Endgame'. 
 
Cameron has been working on 'Avatar' sequels for years and their release has been delayed several times. 
 
The second instalment is scheduled to debut in December 2021, followed by three others in December 2023, December 2025 and December 2027. 
 
The 'Avatar'&nbsp;sequels will be distributed by Walt Disney Co, which took over the franchise when it bought film and TV businesses from 21st Century Fox in 2019.

A sequel to James Cameron's sci-fi movie blockbuster 'Avatar' will go back into production next week for the first time since it was shuttered by worldwide efforts to contain the coronavirus, producer Jon Landau said on Friday.

A sequel to James Cameron's sci-fi movie blockbuster 'Avatar' will go back into production next week for the first time since it was shuttered by worldwide efforts to contain the coronavirus, producer Jon Landau said on Friday. Film and TV production came to halt around the globe in mid-March but is slowly returning in some countries including New Zealand, where the 'Avatar' sequel is being filmed. View this post on Instagram Our #Avatar sets are ready — and we couldn’t be more excited to be headed back to New Zealand next week. Check out the Matador, a high speed forward command vessel (bottom) and the Picador jetboat (top) — can’t wait to share more. A post shared by Jon Landau (@jonplandau) on May 21, 2020 at 2:47pm PDT × "Our #Avatar sets are ready — and we couldn’t be more excited to be headed back to New Zealand next week," Landau wrote on Instagram beneath a photo of two boats on the set. Landau identified them as the Matador, a high-speed forward command vessel, and the Picador, a jetboat. Also read: James Cameron's 'Avatar 2' has a budget of over Rs 7500 crore, making it the most expensive film Authorities in New Zealand, where coronavirus slowed dramatically after the government enforced a strict lockdown, have approved film industry safeguards for resuming productions. Each set needs a permit to bring people back to work. Released in 2009, 'Avatar' had been the highest-grossing movie of all time until July 2019 when it was overtaken by superhero flick 'Avengers: Endgame'. Cameron has been working on 'Avatar' sequels for years and their release has been delayed several times. The second instalment is scheduled to debut in December 2021, followed by three others in December 2023, December 2025 and December 2027. The 'Avatar' sequels will be distributed by Walt Disney Co, which took over the franchise when it bought film and TV businesses from 21st Century Fox in 2019.

'Avatar' movie sequel to resume production in New Zealand

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Wednesday suggested extra public holidays and a shorter working week to help kickstart New Zealand's post-lockdown economy.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Wednesday suggested extra public holidays and a shorter working week to help kickstart New Zealand's post-lockdown economy. Ardern said she wanted to encourage "nimble" and creative ideas for recovery after a strict seven-week lockdown that helped New Zealand contain COVID-19 but stalled the economy, according to news agency AFP. Suggestions included moving to a four-day week and creating extra public holidays to help boost spending in the tourism and hospitality sectors that have been hit particularly hard by the lockdown, the report added. "This is an extraordinary time and we should be willing to consider extraordinary ideas," she told reporters, adding: "I haven't ruled anything in or out." Ardern said there is "a range of options and we should be open (minded)". After talking to tourism industry representatives on Tuesday, the prime minister said working from home during lockdown had shown how productive employees could be if given extra flexibility. She said a four-day week could work the same way if employers were willing to try it. "Think about if that's something that would work for your workplace, because it certainly would help tourism all around the country," she said. New Zealand, with a population of five million, has recorded just 21 coronavirus deaths, thanks largely to the early lockdown and rigorous adherence to anti-virus measures. (With inputs from AFP)

Jacinda Ardern  suggests shorter working week to kickstart economy post lockdown

New Zealand's Jacinda Ardern has become the most popular prime minister of the country in a century, as per a poll conducted by Newshub-Reid Research. The surge in her approval rating has been due to her coronavirus response that has made the country&nbsp;most successful in containing the spread.&nbsp;

The public polls were conducted for the first time since coronavirus hit the country.&nbsp;

According to the polls, Ardern's Labour party saw a jump of 14 points to 56.5 per cent. This is the highest for any party ever, whereas, Nationals, despite being the biggest party in the parliament saw a fall of 12.7 points to 30.6 per cent.&nbsp;

These polls were conducted between May 8 and May 16 and half of the reactions were taken after the federal budget on Thursday.&nbsp;

Ardern remained on the top of the list as preferred prime minister with 59.5 per cent, which is the highest score for any leader in the Reid Research poll's history.

The poll was based on public sentiments after level three lockdown. The shutdown earned massive support of 92 per cent where people thought it was the right call.

The country has eased up its lockdown since late April after a month under strict "level 4" lockdown. But has continued to enforce strict social measures on many of its citizens and businesses, helping prevent widespread community spread of the virus.

New Zealand has reopened most of the businesses including malls, cinemas, cafes and gyms on May 14.&nbsp;

The Kiwis like to call it the "Jacinda-mania."

New Zealand is nearing a victory against coronavirus after seeing a sharp decrease in cases. The country has a total of 1,499 cases and over 21 deaths as compared to the global toll of 4.7 million cases and 315,000 deaths.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

New Zealand's Jacinda Ardern has become the most popular prime minister of the country in a century, as per a poll conducted by Newshub-Reid Research. The surge in her approval rating has been due to her coronavirus response that has made the country most successful in containing the spread.

New Zealand's Jacinda Ardern has become the most popular prime minister of the country in a century, as per a poll conducted by Newshub-Reid Research. The surge in her approval rating has been due to her coronavirus response that has made the country most successful in containing the spread. The public polls were conducted for the first time since coronavirus hit the country. According to the polls, Ardern's Labour party saw a jump of 14 points to 56.5 per cent. This is the highest for any party ever, whereas, Nationals, despite being the biggest party in the parliament saw a fall of 12.7 points to 30.6 per cent. These polls were conducted between May 8 and May 16 and half of the reactions were taken after the federal budget on Thursday. Ardern remained on the top of the list as preferred prime minister with 59.5 per cent, which is the highest score for any leader in the Reid Research poll's history. The poll was based on public sentiments after level three lockdown. The shutdown earned massive support of 92 per cent where people thought it was the right call. The country has eased up its lockdown since late April after a month under strict "level 4" lockdown. But has continued to enforce strict social measures on many of its citizens and businesses, helping prevent widespread community spread of the virus. New Zealand has reopened most of the businesses including malls, cinemas, cafes and gyms on May 14. The Kiwis like to call it the "Jacinda-mania." New Zealand is nearing a victory against coronavirus after seeing a sharp decrease in cases. The country has a total of 1,499 cases and over 21 deaths as compared to the global toll of 4.7 million cases and 315,000 deaths.

Jacinda Ardern becomes New Zealand's most popular prime minister after COVID-19 response: Poll

New Zealand virus containment sets an example for countries across the world. NZ PM Ardern turned away by a cafe due to social distancing norms.

New Zealand virus containment sets an example for countries across the world

New Zealand's&nbsp;Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, has been applauded for the way she handled the coronavirus pandemic in the country. As the country was was able to flatten the curve, the government eased down the lockdown and allowed people to step out and continue with their day-to-day lives, but with social distancing rules applied.

One such restaurant, Olive Restaurant, in Wellington City, took the social distancing rules seriously and denied Jacinda Ardern a table as they had met the maximum capacity.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-zealand-virus-containment-sets-an-example-for-countries-across-the-world-299135">Also watch: New Zealand virus containment sets an example for countries across the world</a>

Jacinda Ardern has advised the restaurants and cafe to accommodate only a set number of people at once in their premises. As the restaurant already had all tables full, the Prime Minister and her partner were asked to wait.

A twitter user was the first to spot Jacinda, and tweeted, “Omg Jacinda Ardern just tried to come into Olive and was rejected cause it’s full.”

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Omg Jacinda Ardern just tried to come into Olive and was rejected cause it's full. 💀
— Joey 🧜🏻‍♂️ (@reinvention) <a href="https://twitter.com/reinvention/status/1261432122784407552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

However, almost 10 minutes later, the restaurant was able to accommodate the PM and her partner for a brunch, as a table became available.

Few hours later, Jacinda's partner, Clarke Gayford, replied to the tweet jokingly saying he forgot to book a table, but praised the restaurant staff for their service.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I have to take responsibility for this, I didn't get organized and book anywhere. Was very nice of them to chase us down st when a spot freed up. A+ service.
— Clarke Gayford (@NZClarke) <a href="https://twitter.com/NZClarke/status/1261499022801395712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Manager reassured that no special treatment was provided to the PM, and that fetching the customers once a table becomes available is restaurant's standard policy.

Jacinda's team said she does not mind waiting in a line during these tough times and&nbsp;"she just waits like everyone else.”

New Zealand's Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, has been applauded for the way she handled the coronavirus pandemic in the country. As the country was was able to flatten the curve, the government eased down the lockdown and allowed people to step out and continue with their day-to-day lives, but with social distancing rules applied.

New Zealand's Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, has been applauded for the way she handled the coronavirus pandemic in the country. As the country was was able to flatten the curve, the government eased down the lockdown and allowed people to step out and continue with their day-to-day lives, but with social distancing rules applied. One such restaurant, Olive Restaurant, in Wellington City, took the social distancing rules seriously and denied Jacinda Ardern a table as they had met the maximum capacity. Also watch: New Zealand virus containment sets an example for countries across the world Jacinda Ardern has advised the restaurants and cafe to accommodate only a set number of people at once in their premises. As the restaurant already had all tables full, the Prime Minister and her partner were asked to wait. A twitter user was the first to spot Jacinda, and tweeted, “Omg Jacinda Ardern just tried to come into Olive and was rejected cause it’s full.” Omg Jacinda Ardern just tried to come into Olive and was rejected cause it's full. 💀 — Joey 🧜🏻‍♂️ (@reinvention) May 15, 2020 × However, almost 10 minutes later, the restaurant was able to accommodate the PM and her partner for a brunch, as a table became available. Few hours later, Jacinda's partner, Clarke Gayford, replied to the tweet jokingly saying he forgot to book a table, but praised the restaurant staff for their service. I have to take responsibility for this, I didn't get organized and book anywhere. Was very nice of them to chase us down st when a spot freed up. A+ service. — Clarke Gayford (@NZClarke) May 16, 2020 × The Manager reassured that no special treatment was provided to the PM, and that fetching the customers once a table becomes available is restaurant's standard policy. Jacinda's team said she does not mind waiting in a line during these tough times and "she just waits like everyone else.”

New Zealand: PM Jacinda Ardern denied table in cafe due to social distancing

New Zealand has been applauded for the way it handled the coronavirus pandemic. As no new cases were reported for two days, New Zealand has decided to reopen its economy and let people return back to their day-to-day life.

The country had start re-opening few shops and had allowed people to step out for&nbsp;walks and essential work few weeks back, in order to lift the restrictions of lockdown in phases.

However,&nbsp;Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has now announced that the country is ready to embrace its new normal now.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-berates-new-zealand-over-support-for-taiwan-at-who-298258">Also read:&nbsp;China berates New Zealand over support for Taiwan at WHO</a>

Malls, retail stores and restaurants will be allowed to reopen from Thursday, and people will laos be allowed to get back to their workplaces. However, rules of social distancing will be applicable till further notice. All gatherings will be limited to 10 people and everyone will be encouraged to wear masks.

“New Zealand is about to enter a very tough winter.&nbsp;But every winter eventually is followed by spring, and if we make the right choices we can get New Zealanders back to work and our economy moving quickly again,” said Jacinda Ardern.

New Zealand&nbsp;had reported close to 1,500 positive cases, out of which more than 1,400 have recovered, and 21 lost their lives.

New Zealand has been applauded for the way it handled the coronavirus pandemic. As no new cases were reported for two days, New Zealand has decided to reopen its economy and let people return back to their day-to-day life.

New Zealand has been applauded for the way it handled the coronavirus pandemic. As no new cases were reported for two days, New Zealand has decided to reopen its economy and let people return back to their day-to-day life. The country had start re-opening few shops and had allowed people to step out for walks and essential work few weeks back, in order to lift the restrictions of lockdown in phases. However, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has now announced that the country is ready to embrace its new normal now. Also read: China berates New Zealand over support for Taiwan at WHO Malls, retail stores and restaurants will be allowed to reopen from Thursday, and people will laos be allowed to get back to their workplaces. However, rules of social distancing will be applicable till further notice. All gatherings will be limited to 10 people and everyone will be encouraged to wear masks. “New Zealand is about to enter a very tough winter. But every winter eventually is followed by spring, and if we make the right choices we can get New Zealanders back to work and our economy moving quickly again,” said Jacinda Ardern. New Zealand had reported close to 1,500 positive cases, out of which more than 1,400 have recovered, and 21 lost their lives.

Kiwis to return to workplace as New Zealand lifts lockdown

In this segment, WION had an exclusive conversation with Dr. Arindam Basu, Associate Professor, Canterbury University, New Zealand, over the Coronavirus crisis. Where he talks about how News Zealand is seemingly the brightest spot in the world at the moment.

Exclusive: Dr. Arindam Basu, Associate Professor, Canterbury University, New Zealand Speaks to WION | Full Interview

After easing the lockdown a fortnight ago, New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern announced on Monday that the government would be phasing out the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-covid-19-cases-surge-past-4-million-mark-death-toll-at-282700-297872"> lockdown </a>but asked citizens to be vigilant.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/johnsons-speech-on-measures-for-england-to-lift-lockdown-stirs-confusion-internet-reacts-297951">Also Read:&nbsp;Johnson's speech on measures for England to lift lockdown stirs 'confusion'</a>

In a televised address to the nation, the New Zealand PM said: "Your efforts New Zealand have got us to this place ahead of most of the world and without the carnage that COVID-19 has inflicted in many other places."

Authorities had allowed easing of the lockdown earlier allowing food takeaways, but this time Ardern asserted that there would be much more freedom. New Zealand has recorded just over 1,140 cases of the virus with 21 deaths.

"This is a transition out of our bubbles, you can see people you haven't seen in a while, you just can't do it all at once," Ardern said, adding:"At Level Two we are out and about again, just about all parts of the economy are opening up again."

Schools is set to be reopened next week, however, international borders continue to remain closed.

Although domestic travel would be allowed, but bars are not set to be reopened until later this month. In another move, the government is also set to allow domestic Super Rugby next month.

After easing the lockdown a fortnight ago, New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern announced on Monday that the government would be phasing out the lockdown but asked citizens to be vigilant.

After easing the lockdown a fortnight ago, New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern announced on Monday that the government would be phasing out the lockdown but asked citizens to be vigilant. Also Read: Johnson's speech on measures for England to lift lockdown stirs 'confusion' In a televised address to the nation, the New Zealand PM said: "Your efforts New Zealand have got us to this place ahead of most of the world and without the carnage that COVID-19 has inflicted in many other places." Authorities had allowed easing of the lockdown earlier allowing food takeaways, but this time Ardern asserted that there would be much more freedom. New Zealand has recorded just over 1,140 cases of the virus with 21 deaths. "This is a transition out of our bubbles, you can see people you haven't seen in a while, you just can't do it all at once," Ardern said, adding:"At Level Two we are out and about again, just about all parts of the economy are opening up again." Schools is set to be reopened next week, however, international borders continue to remain closed. Although domestic travel would be allowed, but bars are not set to be reopened until later this month. In another move, the government is also set to allow domestic Super Rugby next month.

New Zealand set to phase out lockdown

Indian mission in New Zealand is reaching out to stranded Indians in various ways and has sent a database of 1200 stranded Indians to the government in Delhi even as it waits for govt instruction for any call on evacuation. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from&nbsp;wellington, Indian envoy to New Zealand&nbsp;Muktesh K Pardeshi praised the country's "remarkable" efforts to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic and also talked about how Gurudwaras are reaching out to stranded Indians including feed some 50,000 people.

WION: How are&nbsp;India and New Zealand cooperating to deal with the COVID crisis?

Muktesh K Pardeshi: Both India and New Zealand are friendly countries and both have decided to collaborate&nbsp;on the crisis. Our both Foreign Ministers, EAM Jaishankar and New Zealand's FM both discussed the collaborative aspects. Being a group of like-minded countries, which also includes India and New Zealand, within that framework, both countries are deliberating on how to deal with a global pandemic.

WION: How is the Indian mission reaching out to Indians?

Muktesh K Pardeshi: We decided to reach out to the Indian diaspora in multiple manners via a social media platform, via calling them. We reached out to them via Indian associations. Indian associations are there all over new Zealand. We have roped in several NGOs who worked with several communities. So now we have a database&nbsp;of about 1200 people who have stranded&nbsp;here mainly tourist&nbsp;and some students.&nbsp;

WION: And how are Gurudwaras reaching out? We have seen Gurudwaras helping out to stranded Indians.

Muktesh K Pardeshi: When the lockdown started, in the beginning, the Gurudwaras were not open but now they are functional they can reach out to any stranded Indian. One Gurudwara in Auckland&nbsp;has served food to more than 50,000 people in last so many days. They have done a commendable&nbsp;job. What we have done at the high commission is that we have brought in a number of charity organisation,&nbsp;Indian associations in Auckland, wellington, Christchurch they have been able to reach out to stranded students, those who are in work visa. They were facing difficulties, these are the people who were vulnerable.&nbsp;

WION:&nbsp;New Zealand model of COVID containment being lauded across the world..more you can tell

Muktesh K Pardeshi: New Zealand has done remarkably well. PM of New Zealand has been very clear and consistent&nbsp;in messaging from day one. How they have communicated&nbsp;to the people, the messaging. Of course, the population density is very low here, so people are able to self isolate without much difficulty,&nbsp;not possible in densely populated areas. Certain advantages in favour of new Zealand.

WION: Any model we have talked about with New Zealand..

Muktesh K Pardeshi: New Zealand started lockdown, a little bit early that what we did in India. What they did, they devised&nbsp;health alert system--1,2,3,4 with 4 begin the highest one. Right now we are at the third&nbsp;level. They were in level 2 and jumped to 4 for a month, now they have gone down to level 3. The cabinet is going to meet, and they may go down to level 2. In terms of national lockdown, their model was available&nbsp;when we started our lockdown.

WION: Are we planning to evacuate&nbsp;Indians stranded in the country?

Muktesh K Pardeshi: What we have done, we have created a database, of those who would like to go back. We have a list of 1200 people, they are basically students and tourist on family visits. Such students would also like to go back, but not many students have the desire to go back. So basically tourist on family visits. We have shared this data based with the govt and looking forward to any instructions emanating&nbsp;from govt of India. These people here are very anxious and they have been here for 2 months and New Zealand is an expensive country.&nbsp;So naturally, they are upset and they would like to go back.&nbsp;

WION: How are Indian diplomats doing, how has the situation been for you.&nbsp;

Muktesh K Pardeshi:&nbsp;I would say during the last few years, govt has been very consistent in its approach towards the diaspora. So in the last 5-6 years, we have been groomed in a manner to deal with these kinds of situation. It is not a very difficult situation, and here in New Zealand all diplomatic missions have been exempted during the lockdown, so we can go to offices for a certain number of hours. Of course, services are skeletal because they have to maintain lockdown norms but still we are able to come to the high commission and provide services which are required. So we are working, and it is not a normal situation. For example, we are giving food packets to our citizens since its lockdown we can have a certain number of people gathering and we must comply with the norms.

Indian mission in New Zealand is reaching out to stranded Indians in various ways and has sent a database of 1200 stranded Indians to the government in Delhi even as it waits for govt instruction for any call on evacuation.

Indian mission in New Zealand is reaching out to stranded Indians in various ways and has sent a database of 1200 stranded Indians to the government in Delhi even as it waits for govt instruction for any call on evacuation. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal from wellington, Indian envoy to New Zealand Muktesh K Pardeshi praised the country's "remarkable" efforts to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic and also talked about how Gurudwaras are reaching out to stranded Indians including feed some 50,000 people. WION: How are India and New Zealand cooperating to deal with the COVID crisis? Muktesh K Pardeshi: Both India and New Zealand are friendly countries and both have decided to collaborate on the crisis. Our both Foreign Ministers, EAM Jaishankar and New Zealand's FM both discussed the collaborative aspects. Being a group of like-minded countries, which also includes India and New Zealand, within that framework, both countries are deliberating on how to deal with a global pandemic. WION: How is the Indian mission reaching out to Indians? Muktesh K Pardeshi: We decided to reach out to the Indian diaspora in multiple manners via a social media platform, via calling them. We reached out to them via Indian associations. Indian associations are there all over new Zealand. We have roped in several NGOs who worked with several communities. So now we have a database of about 1200 people who have stranded here mainly tourist and some students. WION: And how are Gurudwaras reaching out? We have seen Gurudwaras helping out to stranded Indians. Muktesh K Pardeshi: When the lockdown started, in the beginning, the Gurudwaras were not open but now they are functional they can reach out to any stranded Indian. One Gurudwara in Auckland has served food to more than 50,000 people in last so many days. They have done a commendable job. What we have done at the high commission is that we have brought in a number of charity organisation, Indian associations in Auckland, wellington, Christchurch they have been able to reach out to stranded students, those who are in work visa. They were facing difficulties, these are the people who were vulnerable. WION: New Zealand model of COVID containment being lauded across the world..more you can tell Muktesh K Pardeshi: New Zealand has done remarkably well. PM of New Zealand has been very clear and consistent in messaging from day one. How they have communicated to the people, the messaging. Of course, the population density is very low here, so people are able to self isolate without much difficulty, not possible in densely populated areas. Certain advantages in favour of new Zealand. WION: Any model we have talked about with New Zealand.. Muktesh K Pardeshi: New Zealand started lockdown, a little bit early that what we did in India. What they did, they devised health alert system--1,2,3,4 with 4 begin the highest one. Right now we are at the third level. They were in level 2 and jumped to 4 for a month, now they have gone down to level 3. The cabinet is going to meet, and they may go down to level 2. In terms of national lockdown, their model was available when we started our lockdown. WION: Are we planning to evacuate Indians stranded in the country? Muktesh K Pardeshi: What we have done, we have created a database, of those who would like to go back. We have a list of 1200 people, they are basically students and tourist on family visits. Such students would also like to go back, but not many students have the desire to go back. So basically tourist on family visits. We have shared this data based with the govt and looking forward to any instructions emanating from govt of India. These people here are very anxious and they have been here for 2 months and New Zealand is an expensive country. So naturally, they are upset and they would like to go back. WION: How are Indian diplomats doing, how has the situation been for you. Muktesh K Pardeshi: I would say during the last few years, govt has been very consistent in its approach towards the diaspora. So in the last 5-6 years, we have been groomed in a manner to deal with these kinds of situation. It is not a very difficult situation, and here in New Zealand all diplomatic missions have been exempted during the lockdown, so we can go to offices for a certain number of hours. Of course, services are skeletal because they have to maintain lockdown norms but still we are able to come to the high commission and provide services which are required. So we are working, and it is not a normal situation. For example, we are giving food packets to our citizens since its lockdown we can have a certain number of people gathering and we must comply with the norms.

Database of 1,200 stranded Indians sent to govt, says Indian envoy to New Zealand Pardeshi

Australia and New Zealand ease restrictions, people flock to beaches and cafes

New Zealand has started to relax its strict lockdown, with residents able to travel to work, spend more time outside and order takeaway food

Thousands return to work in New Zealand

new-zealand

New Zealand, News on New Zealand, stories on New Zealand, articles on New Zealand, New Zealand stories at Wion, New Zealand news, New Zealand latest news

new zealand

Gravitas: Has Jacinda Ardern failed as a leader?

What's the reality beneath 'picture-perfect' New Zealand?

Fresh coronavirus cases in New Zealand amid breach of quarantine measures

Magnitude 7.4 earthquake hits 705 km north-east of Opotiki, New Zealand

'COVID-free' New Zealand allows two women from UK to exit quarantine early

New Zealand records two cases of coronavirus in returning travellers

New Zealand no longer COVID free, confirms two new cases

Graffiti in support of George floyd has popped us globally

'Avatar' sequel resumes filming in coronavirus-free New Zealand

BLM Protests: Thousands of protesters take a knee in Auckland

New Zealand protesters take knee outside US consulate

New Zealand: Controversial colonist's statue brought down

Nine countries that defeated the novel coronavirus!

Nine countries that defeated the novel coronavirus!

New Zealanders enjoy life back to normal after social distancing restrictions lifted

No new cases of Coronavirus in New Zealand

''Survive, Revive, Thrive'': Air New Zealand's 800-day runway to healthy profits

From London to New Zealand, people join in on 'Black Lives Matter' protests

Lost hikers found after over two weeks in New Zealand wilderness

Watch: New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern remains cool as earthquake strikes during live interview

Jacinda Ardern stays cool as earthquake rattles New Zealand capital

'Avatar' movie sequel to resume production in New Zealand

Jacinda Ardern suggests shorter working week to kickstart economy post lockdown

Jacinda Ardern becomes New Zealand's most popular prime minister after COVID-19 response: Poll