The COVID-19 Protection Framework (traffic lights)

New Zealand moves to the COVID-19 Protection Framework, also known as the traffic lights, on 3 December. 

This new approach to COVID-19 will introduce more freedoms for vaccinated New Zealanders.

At 11:59pm on 2 December, all of New Zealand will move to the COVID-19 Protection Framework.
Check the settings for your area

COVID-19 Protection Framework uses a 3-level approach to manage COVID-19 in the community:

• Green - used when there’s limited COVID-19 in the community, hospitalisations are at a manageable level, the health system is ready to respond.
• Orange – used when there’s increasing community transmission of COVID-19, the whole health system has focused its resources but can manage the outbreak, there is an increasing risk to the public.
• Red – used when action is needed to protect the health system and to protect at-risk populations.

We can move up levels when needed to control outbreaks. The framework is more flexible than the current Alert Level system. It provides vaccinated people more freedom.

At all levels, businesses, retail, and public facilities will generally be able to remain open for vaccinated people. Businesses that only open to vaccinated customers pose a lower risk.

Learn more about the COVID-19 Protection Framework