Measles case confirmed in Wellington linked to overseas travel
Thursday 8 October 2026 · 3 outlets · 3 reports · updated In this story Health New Zealand, Salvation Army
A person in Wellington has been diagnosed with measles following recent international travel. Health New Zealand is supporting the individual and their close contacts to prevent further spread. Officials are currently identifying locations of interest visited by the person while they were infectious.
Key facts
4 facts
- A measles case was confirmed in Wellington linked to overseas travel
- Locations of interest include Salvation Army (Upper Hutt), Canine Solutions (Naenae), and Romans Kitchen (Lower Hutt)
- Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a facial rash
- Immunity is generally granted to those born in NZ before 1969, those with two vaccines after 12 months, or those who have had measles
The full story
1 min read · 3 outlets
A new measles case has been confirmed in Wellington following recent international travel. Health New Zealand stated that the National Public Health Service is supporting the individual and their close contacts to prevent the spread of the disease. Officials are also identifying locations of interest visited by the person while they were infectious.
Current locations of interest include the Salvation Army in Upper Hutt, Canine Solutions in Naenae, and Romans Kitchen in Lower Hutt. Specific addresses in Wairarapa and Lower Hutt have also been identified. Health New Zealand is regularly updating its locations of interest page and advises anyone who visited these sites during specified times to follow public health advice.
Dr Craig Thornley, the medical officer of health for the Greater Wellington region, said, "With many people travelling or returning from overseas during the school holidays, this case is a timely reminder that measles can be brought into New Zealand at any time". Symptoms of the illness include a fever, cough, runny nose, or red eyes, followed by a rash that typically begins on the face.
Anyone who has recently experienced these symptoms, even if they have recovered, should stay home and call Healthline on 0800 611 116 or contact a healthcare provider before visiting in person. Dr Thornley noted that immunisation is the best protection and encouraged people to check their status. Individuals are generally considered immune if they have had measles, received two vaccines after 12 months of age, or were born in New Zealand before 1969.
Where reports differ
- One report lists Canine Solutions in Naenae and specific addresses in Wairarapa and Lower Hutt as locations of interest, while others only mention the Salvation Army and Romans Kitchen
Compiled from reports by RNZ, NZ Herald and Stuff.