To access COVID-19 testing, call 0800 VIRUS 19. For up-to-date information on COVID-19: Click Here

COVID-19

 Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs)

RAT testing is now part of the Covid-19 response in Aotearoa and Southern. In means more people have access to testing and results are available almost immediately, without lab processing.  More.

RAT Collection Sites

RAT collection sites are in Southern for preordered test kits,  click here. 

 Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs)

RAT testing is now part of the Covid-19 response in Aotearoa and Southern. In means more people have access to testing and results are available almost immediately, without lab processing.  More.

COVID-19 Testing - No appointment required

PCR testing is available for anyone who meets the Ministry of Health's criteria, including in advance of a surgery or hospital appointment, anyone directed by the Medical Officer of Health or for those unable to have a rapid antigen test. More information.

Dunedin
WellSouth Covid Community Testing Centre

Drive Through/Walk In - No Appointment Required

9.30am to 5:30pm  
5 Malcolm Street
Dunedin

Map 

 

Invercargill

Awarua Whānau Services Community Testing Centre

Drive Through/Walk In - No Appointment Required

11am to 5pm, Tuesday to Saturday
Newfield Tavern, Invercargill
Car park at the rear, entrance off Regent Street 
Map

 

Queenstown

Engage Safety Covid-19 Testing Centre

Drive Through/Walk In - No Appointment Required
9am to 3pm, seven days a week

18 Glenda Avenue, Frankton
Map

 

Waitaki

Ōtākou Health Swabbing Centre Oamaru

Drive Through - No Appointments Required 

8.30am to 5.30pm Monday

Closed Tuesday & Wednesday 

8.30am to 3pm Thursday

8.30am to 4pm Friday

1pm to 4pm Saturday

8.30 to 4pm Sunday

Awamoa Park, Oamaru  

Map 

 

Help accessing Covid-19 testing in Southern

For anyone who has symptoms or is a household contact  of a confirmed Covid positive case, it is best to request rapid antigen tests (RATs)  via the Ministry of Health's Rat Requestor web site.

Residents and visitors to Southern can access COVID-19 testing by calling  0800 VIRUS19 (0800 847 8719).

You can also contact your own family doctor for advice and testing.

Testing is FREE. 

0800 VIRUS 19 Call Centre Hours of Operation

8.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday
8.30am to 4pm, Weekends and Holidays

COVID-19 testing is also provided by general practices and designated general practices in Southern.

Dunedin and South Otago - https://www.healthpoint.co.nz/covid-19/dunedin-south-otago/

Queenstown Lakes district - https://www.healthpoint.co.nz/covid-19/central-lakes/

Invercargill, Gore &Southland - https://www.healthpoint.co.nz/covid-19/southland/

Oamaru/Waitaki - https://www.healthpoint.co.nz/covid-19/waitaki/

When to get tested

When should you get a Covid test?

- If you are unwell - even with minor cold symptoms, a runny nose or slightly sore throat - stay home. Get a COVID test. Even if it is negative, stay home until you are symptom-free.

- If a household member tests positive for Covid, isolate at home and be tested (Day 3 and Day 7 if you’re asymptomatic, and immediately if or when you develop symptoms.)

- If public health or your hospital doctor has told you to get a test for pre-admission.
Rapid antigen tests have become the primary method of testing in Phase 3 of the Omicron response. But PCR tests are still being used when appropriate.

Pre-departure COVID-19 tests

Some countries require you to have a negative COVID-19 test before travel. You will need to pay for a test if it is for the purpose of entering another country. More information see  Pre-departure COVID-19 Tests 

  

Ministry of Health NZ

Health Navigator

Telehealth

Patients First

COVID-19 Government Website