The health ministry says it appears that the country's latest Covid-19 wave has peaked.

New Zealand recorded 6,910 new Covid cases, well below average levels over the past week, according to data from the health ministry.

Deaths from the virus reached 151 in the seven days to July 16, compared with 115 in the worst week of the previous wave, in March, according to health ministry data.

New Zealand's Metservice announced a severe weather warning for Wellington and nearby regions, with winds of 130km per hour and waves of seven metres pounding the area.

Australia’s hardline immigration policy requires asylum seekers intercepted at sea trying to reach Australia to be sent to offshore detention centres.

Vaccine passes will no longer be mandatory to visit restaurants, coffee shops and other public spaces.

PM Ardern describes the change as a major boost for New Zealand's struggling tourism industry.

New Zealand says it will extend visas held by Ukrainians currently living in New Zealand and also open its borders, currently closed to all non-New Zealanders or New Zealand residents, to Ukrainians with valid visas.

Meat processors have cut production, grapes are withering on vines and a dearth of international visitors has some tourism operators worried they will have to close shop by the time borders reopen later this year.

While Hong Kong was successful in controlling the virus in 2021, Covid-19 infections there have recently soared to a total of around 500,000.

In a special session of parliament to discuss the protest, the most violent in decades in the normally peaceful city, Ardern promised things would change, but gave no timeframe for easing curbs.

While some protesters packed up their tents and left, others resisted by throwing water bottles, fire extinguishers and chairs, and shouting abuse at police.