Source : PortMac.News | Independent :
Source : PortMac.News | Independent | News Story:
The national cabinet has formally invited Jacinda Ardern to join its meeting on Tuesday, which will include a discussion about the contact tracing apps both countries are using.
It's expected the meeting will advance early discussions on a "trans-Tasman bubble" that would see the relaxation of border restrictions between the citizens of two countries and allies.
It comes as New Zealand recorded no new daily positive tests to coronavirus for the first time since the outbreak began.
On Monday, New Zealand's Director-General of Health Ashley Bloomfield announced the promising result, the first day without fresh cases since 16 March.
New Zealand's COVID-19 death toll stands at 20, with 1137 confirmed nationwide cases.
Just four Kiwis currently require hospital treatment for the virus, with none in intensive care.
The announcement will sharpen local hopes for a reduction of the country's lockdown to allow for more recreation, travel, and the return of retail business.
Amid reports of hundreds of illegal parties taking place last weekend up and down the country, Dr Bloomfield told Kiwis the result was not a green light to ditch social distancing measures.
"Clearly these are encouraging figures today but it is just one moment in time," he said.
"We cannot afford to squander all the hard work and effort in the past weeks.
"We need to maintain discipline and keep pushing on and sustain the advantage that we have fought so hard for."
New Zealand shifted from an extreme 'level four' lockdown last week and the Cabinet will assess whether it is ready to lessen restrictions once more at next week's meeting on Monday 11 May.
Australia and New Zealand have taken slightly different approaches to reducing the spread of COVID-19 but have enjoyed similar success.