New Zealand PM tests positive for Covid ahead of election push

By Karen Leigh

New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins tested positive for Covid-19, putting him in isolation two weeks ahead of the country’s general election.

“Bugger! After a rough night I woke up this morning feeling pretty unwell and just got this test result,” Hipkins posted on his official Facebook page on Sunday. “I’m in close contact with New Zealanders on the campaign trail and I don’t want to pass it on to anyone, so I’ll be following the guidance and isolating for a few days or until I get a negative test.”

Hipkins has cold and flu symptoms, according to a statement from his office, and will be isolating for five days or until he tests negative. He will continue with engagements he can undertake via Zoom, it said. 

There are two weeks to go until the Oct. 14 vote, with Hipkins running out of time to convince voters that his Labour party deserves a third term.

Hipkins’ Facebook post thanked “volunteers and supporters who I know will keep our campaign going in my absence.” 

“There’s a lot at stake this election, and I’ll be working doubly hard when I can get back out there to make sure Labour is re-elected,” he wrote.