THE New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins has been diagnosed with the new coronavirus and will be telecommuting in isolation until he recovers, his services announced today, two weeks before the Oceania nation’s election.

Mr. Hipkins has cold and flu symptoms that started last Saturday and will remain in isolation for five days, or until he is tested negative for SARS-CoV-2, explained the press release of his services.

“He will continue the work he can do via Zoom,” according to the same source.

The manifestation of symptoms COVID-19 it means Mr Hipkins will temporarily be unable to continue his campaign ahead of the October 14 general election, in which his faction, the Labor Party, is expected to struggle to hold on to power.

Mr Hipkins was due to attend a Samoan church service in Auckland today. He will be replaced by Deputy Prime Minister Carmel Sepuloni, the Prime Minister’s Office clarified.

In the announcement it is noted that announcements will be made about the progress of his condition when required.

New Zealand authorities lifted all restrictions linked to COVID-19 in August, but continue to recommend that citizens stay at home for five days if they are infected with the new coronavirus.