Cook Islands Government has outlined its plan for the returning stranded Cook Islanders while keeping the country Covid-19 free.

According to Te Marae Ora, Ministry of Health the process has involved the co-ordination of almost a dozen ministries and government agencies.

In a media release, Te Marae Ora said passengers will arrive tomorrow morning at around 2.30 am from Christchurch carrying up to 90 passengers, who would have presented a negative pre-departure Covid-19 test.

Once the plane has landed a Te Marae Ora Health Official and a representative of the Cook Islands Police will brief passengers on what to expect in managed isolation at the Edgewater Resort.

Te Marae Ora said at the airport duty-free shops in the terminal will not be open.

Carry-on bags will be disinfected by health officials at the entrance to the terminal and checked in baggage will be disinfected by health officials before being placed on the carrousel.

“At no time will arriving passengers and the general public, have the opportunity to come into contact with each other. Cordons will be in place, separating the returnees from the general public,” said the release.

“Only front-line staff from the various Border Agencies and transport companies who are fully vaccinated will be working. At the conclusion of their duties, they will each be tested for Covid-19 and will self-isolate until they receive a negative test result.”

Personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided to those at risk of coming into close contacts with arriving passengers said the release.

Guests repatriating need to sign an agreement when they arrive to the managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ) facility. A breach of the quarantine requirements could result in 12 months imprisonment or a fine not exceeding $10,000.

Meals will be provided and individuals will be given the opportunity to exercise outdoors, however guests are not allowed to swim in the pool.

Laundry services will be provided along with laundry facilities being made available for those with further needs.

Health officials will be on standby and returnees will receive daily health checks.

Guests won’t be able to see people in MIQ but are allowed drop off food and personal items except alcohol at the Edgewater reception.

Items will be inspected prior to delivery to rooms, hotel security or police will make sure items are not a health and safety risk.

Edgewater staff will make deliveries to the guests around mealtimes at 7 am, 11 am and 5 pm.

Once all criteria is met and approval is granted by Te Marae Ora, returning Cook Islanders will be permitted to leave the MIQ facility.