The Ministry of Health is urging people to stay vigilant as COVID-19 vaccine pass requirements end on Monday.
Vaccine passes were introduced last year when the traffic light system was first announced.
Although businesses will still be able to use the pass system if they choose to, from 11:59pm on Monday, vaccine passes no longer have to be used to access places like restaurants, hairdressers, and gyms.
The announcement to remove the use of vaccine passes was made in March as part of a plan to loosen COVID restrictions, including removing some vaccine mandates and changes in indoor and outdoor gathering limits.
With vaccine pass requirements ending, the Ministry of Health wants New Zealanders to stay alert.
"As restrictions around the pass ease, it is important for people to continue to follow public health advice to stay at home, away from school or work if you're feeling unwell," they said on Sunday.
They also urge people who haven't already done so to get vaccinated.
"If you are due for a vaccination, whether it be a second shot or booster, make an appointment today.
"There is a much lower risk of being hospitalised or developing severe illness if you are up to date with your vaccinations."
The Ministry of Health's warning on Sunday came as 8810 new community cases were reported, along with 18 deaths and 690 people currently hospitalised.
They said that while it's encouraging to see daily case numbers drop, it isn't unexpected because there are often lower testing and reporting numbers over weekends.
"It's also an important reminder to remain vigilant."
