The Government is partnering with Air New Zealand to trial an innovative new Covid-19 testing solution that uses Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) technology, Associate Minister for Covid-19 Response Dr Ayesha Verrall has announced today.

'As New Zealand reconnects with the world, we are exploring innovative Covid-19 testing technology to help keep people safe and minimise disruption as we welcome new visitors,” says Verrall.

'We are constantly monitoring the latest scientific advancements to maintain our successful Covid-19 response. Our Government is partnering with Air New Zealand to trial the ‘Lucira Check-It' test kits. Using LAMP technology, the test has the potential to combine the speed of rapid antigen tests (RATs) with the accuracy of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests."

The Lucira LAMP trial is expected to run for up to three months. Air New Zealand will invite 30 employees from a variety of roles to participate, while MBIE will fund the test kits used and oversee the requirements of the trial. The trial will assess the Lucira LAMP test's end-to-end usability and employee's ability to understand the results.

'LAMP tests are both cheaper than PCRs and more convenient: they are self-administered and provide results to users within 30 minutes." says Verralll. "The accuracy of the LAMP test has already been established through clinical trials. The purpose of this trial is to prove that the test can be easily self-administered, and that the Air New Zealand crew taking part can quickly identify the results.'

Verrall says that Air New Zealand's role in the trial demonstrates the sector's and Government's continued determination to keep business moving, tourists arriving, and goods flowing.

"The start of this trial comes as we prepare to welcome our first visitors from visa-wavier countries which is a crucial part of our economic recovery," says Verrall.

'There are many wider benefits that LAMP tests could provide to New Zealanders. These include a self-test option with quick results for travellers, border workers, healthcare workers and critical employees prior to travel or commencing work.

'Lamp tests could also be used for high-risk settings such as aged residential care facilities and hospitals.

'New Zealand is open for business, and we now want to make sure international visitors have the confidence to travel safely and easily,” says Verrall.

The trial required approval from the Ministry of Health. When it is finished, Air New Zealand and Lucira will complete a report for the Director General of Health, which along with prior clinical studies completed in the United States, will form the basis of the Lucira Check-It's test assessment and future use in New Zealand.