New Zealand has marked 100 days without recording a single domestic transmission of coronavirus.
Since the global pandemic started earlier this year, New Zealand has been held up as an example of how to deal with the devastating disease, with 1,219 infections and 22 deaths recorded from Covid-19.
But despite the numbers of domestic cases having virtually disappeared, the country's leading scientist has urged caution.
Speaking about the milestone, Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield warned that as shown in other countries, the disease can return at any moment.
In a statement, he said: "Achieving 100 days without community transmission is a significant milestone, however, as we all know, we can't afford to be complacent.
"We have seen overseas how quickly the virus can re-emerge and spread in places where it was previously under control, and we need to be prepared to quickly stamp out any future cases in New Zealand."
This comes as neighbouring Australia recorded its deadliest day since the pandemic began after 17 people tragically died in Victoria between Saturday (8 August) and Sunday (9 August).
