The Ministry of Health has said phase 2 of the COVID-19 health response will be more dependent on the public than ever.
"Under Phase 2, the health response will, more than ever, be supported by everyone playing their part to lessen the impact of the Omicron outbreak," the Ministry said in a statement.
While vaccination, wearing masks, keeping distance and scanning in with the NZ COVID Tracer app is still necessary to control the spread of Omicron, there is an importance placed on the public to identify their own close contacts.
"With the response focusing on the most high-risk locations of interest… People will play a bigger role in identifying their own contacts and exposure events," the Ministry said.
This means if you test positive for COVID you are urged to let your employer and potential contacts know so they can act quickly.
This will help ease the pressure for contact tracers who are overwhelmed as daily case numbers have rocketed into the thousands this week.
If you test positive you will receive a text from 2328 with an access code and link to a contract tracing form to complete, as well as health advice and information on self-isolation.
"Completing this form as soon as possible will ensure we can alert people who have been potentially exposed and is vital in supporting the health response to Omicron under Phase 2," the Ministry said.
The Ministry said most people with Omicron will have mild illnesses and not need additional support during isolation, but for those who need more support, whether they are unable to access or use technology or have social needs, they will receive assistance during their isolation period.
There were 1901 new community cases reported on Saturday and 76 cases in hospital.
