New Zealand virus outbreak spreads beyond Auckland

New Zealand's resurgent coronavirus outbreak has spread beyond Auckland, the health officials said on Friday. Health Minister Chris Hipkins said there were 12 more cases of community transmission, and one probable, following the shock re-emergence of the virus in Auckland this week. He said two of the infections were found in the North Island town of Tokoroa, around 130 miles south of Auckland.

The infections outside Auckland come despite a strict lockdown in New Zealand's largest city. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is set to announce later on Friday whether Auckland's lockdown will be extended, and whether the area affected by the restrictions should be enlarged beyond the city.