You no longer have to get a test or self-isolate if you have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19. Monitor your symptoms and get a test if you start to feel unwell.
Call 111 if you have severe symptoms (such as chest pains or difficulty breathing) – the ambulance will be free.
Pre-ordering a RAT is the quickest and easiest option. RATs can be ordered for you or someone else.
If you are comfortable carrying out the test on your own, order a RAT:
You’ll need a mobile phone to confirm your order and to show your order number when you collect your RAT at a collection site.
You should go to a Community Testing Centre if you need help using a RAT, or you were advised to get a PCR test, or a supervised test. If your RAT needs to be supervised you can ask for help.
You’ll be told if you need a RAT or a PCR test.
Testing centres are seeing high demand currently, so consider pre-ordering a test for collection as it may be a quicker and easier option for you.
Some medical practices offer COVID-19 tests. Call them to find out and follow their advice.
When you go for testing you will be told whether you need a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) or a PCR test. If you’re given a RAT it’s best to do this at home.
There are lots of different types of RATs available for use in New Zealand. While these all tend to be fairly similar, it’s important you follow the instructions carefully before taking the test. Most RAT kits take a few minutes to set-up and take. They normally take around 10 – 20 minutes to generate a result.
Panbio™ COVID 19 Ag Rapid Test Device Nasal Swab Procedure
Roche: Test yourself for COVID 19 with our rapid antigen self test
Assess Bio CareStart COVID 19 Rapid Antigen Test Tutorial
Even if your result was negative you may still need to stay home:
If your test result was positive it means you have COVID-19. You need to go home and self-isolate. People you live with will also need to go home and self-isolate.
If you need help or advice call Healthline for free anytime on 0800 358.
If you had a PCR test it can take 2 – 5 days to receive your result. You will receive a call or a text to confirm your test result once it is available.
You can also access your test result, once it’s available, by:
Instructions on how to record your RAT result are available from Unite Against COVID-19.
If you need help you can also call 0800 222 478.
Common symptoms of COVID-19 can include one or more of the following:
Less common symptoms may include:
These less common symptoms almost always occur with one or more of the common symptoms. These symptoms do not necessarily mean you have COVID-19. The symptoms are like other illnesses that are much more common, such as colds and flu.
If you have any severe symptoms dial 111. There will be no cost to the ambulance if you need one.
Severe symptoms of COVID-19 include: