MurrayM:

 

I often don't answer calls from numbers I don't recognise or that have been withheld. I figure that if it's important then they'll leave a message.

 

I found the numbers that the contact tracing people call from: https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/covid-19-novel-coronavirus/covid-19-health-advice-public/contact-tracing-covid-19 Second section, "Contact tracing phone calls".

 

Note that there are two sets of numbers, one that the contact tracing people use and another set that calls from Healthline may come from.

 

I've now set up both sets as contacts on my phone so I'll know who they are if they ever have a need to contact me.

Contact tracing phone calls

If you have been identified as a Close or Close Plus Contact of someone with COVID-19, you can expect to be contacted by the Ministry of Health or your PHU. 

In some specific higher risk situations, Casual Plus Contacts may also be contacted by the Ministry of Health. 

Contact tracing may involve a phone call from the Ministry or PHU providing you with advice on testing, self-isolation and checking on your health and wellbeing. The Ministry call centre staff will identify themselves and inform you that they are calling from the National Investigation and Tracing Centre (NITC). They will also verify your name and contact details. These calls from the Ministry's call centre staff will usually come from 09 801 3009 or 09 306 8748.

Following this initial phone call, your details may be passed onto Healthline who will make follow up calls during your isolation period to check how you are doing. The calls from Healthline will usually come from 09 302 0408, 09 306 8750 or 09 306 8748. There may be a delay before your call is connected. If you are concerned that a call from Healthline isn’t genuine, you can email Healthline and request a call back. 

It's important to answer your phone, so the PHU, Ministry and Healthline can provide advice to you and check on your wellbeing.