SITREP for cruise vessel outbreak reporting

If on arrival, or during the course of the vessel journey around New Zealand, outbreak rates are ≥3% for COVID-19, influenza, acute respiratory illness or acute gastroenteritis, the master of the vessel is required to report case numbers daily via a Situation Report (SITREP).

If the threshold of 3% is met, complete case numbers for all the specified illnesses in the SITREP and email to ITOC@tewhatuora.govt.nz. Continue to submit daily SITREPs while in New Zealand waters or until advised otherwise.

The SITREPs are in addition to existing health arrival documentation requirements.

SITREP spreadsheet (XLSX 123KB

Role of cruise operators

Cruise operators can minimise the transmission of communicable diseases, including COVID-19, other acute respiratory infections and gastroenteritis, through their practices and procedures.

It is expected that cruise operators will help reduce the risk by:

  • providing ready access to hand sanitation, masks, appropriate testing equipment, and support for passengers and crew with communicable diseases
  • adhering to regular and thorough cleaning routines
  • communicating and encouraging passengers and crew to follow the health guidance
  • promptly implementing additional controls in response to illness.

If the master becomes aware of any disease suspected to be a notifiable infectious disease on board their cruise ship at any point while in New Zealand they are required to notify the local public health service.

Reporting outbreaks - health protection assistance

Cruise operators are responsible for the health of crew and passengers, and for sanitation standards and practices on the ship. Keeping passengers and crew healthy helps protect all New Zealanders. 

Cruise operators should routinely maintain accurate records, for passengers and crew, in relation to acute respiratory infections and gastroenteritis outbreaks on board.  

If illness or outbreaks are reported, public health officers may request further information on the situation and the control measures taken. In some situations a ship visit may be necessary.  Public health officers can provide advice and guidance on managing public health risks. 

More information

Related websites

Related websites

Trade Single Window

Trade Single Window

The Trade Single Window is an electronic channel for the cargo and excise industries to submit information to and receive responses from border agencies (New Zealand Customs Service, Ministry for Primary industries, Maritime New Zealand, and the Ministry of Health). It allows border agencies to use shared information to process craft and cargo data efficiently. Get more information on the New Zealand Customs website.

To register for Trade Single Window go to tsw.govt.nz.

Vessel Management Framework

Vessel Management Framework

The Vessel Management Framework is a cross-agency and industry tool that can be used for international maritime arrivals when a quarantinable disease is suspected or known to be onboard a vessel. The intention is to manage health risks whilst minimising interference with the free flow of people and goods.

Vessel Management Framework (PDF, 686KB)