After suffering through a seven-week lockdown harsher than Australia's, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has loosened the screws on New Zealand's coronavirus restrictions.
Ms Ardern has announced New Zealand will move from level three to level two restrictions from Thursday, phasing in the return of normality.
"As of today we have only 90 New Zealanders recorded with the virus, with only two in hospital," Ms Ardern said.
"None of it has been through luck, but rather through hard work.
"We are ready to move to level two, to open up the economy, but to do it as safely as possible."
From Thursday 14 May, retail businesses, cafes, gyms and playgrounds will be open, and New Zealanders will be allowed to socialise with friends and family outside their household 'bubbles' once more.
From Monday 18 May, schools and early learning centres will resume classes as usual
Kiwis eager to return to the pub will have to wait another 10 days, with 21 May pencilled in for the reopening of bars.
Health officials announced three new cases of COVID-19 on Monday for a total of 1,147 cases nationwide through the pandemic.
New Zealand's death toll stands at 21.
People in Australia must stay at least 1.5 metres away from others. Check your state’s restrictions on gathering limits.
Testing for coronavirus is now widely available across Australia. If you are experiencing cold or flu symptoms, arrange a test by calling your doctor or contact the Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080.
The federal government's coronavirus tracing app COVIDSafe is available for download from your phone's app store. SBS is committed to informing Australia’s diverse communities about the latest COVID-19 developments.
