Kiwis evacuated off Diamond Princess start quarantine at military base

WELLINGTON - The six New Zealanders who were evacuated from coronavirus-hit cruise ship Diamond Princess on Friday arrived at Whangaparaoa Reception Centre, a navy base, where they will be quarantined for two weeks.

As of Wednesday, 621 people have been confirmed as coronavirus-positive out of more than 3,000 passengers of the ship.

New Zealand Ministry of Health's Director of Public Health Caroline McElnay welcomed the six New Zealanders.

"We really appreciate the willingness of this group of people to stay at the reception center for the 14-day quarantine period," McElnay said.

"Our top priority is ensuring these people remain healthy. Their welfare and wellbeing are our primary focus. That's why we have health professionals onsite to check up on everyone's health on a daily basis," she said.

"We know people may have concerns about being away from family and friends even longer than first anticipated. We will make sure people feel as comfortable as possible at the center," she added.