New Zealand PM Bans Mass Gatherings, Says Impact of Coronavirus on Economy Will Be Significant

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern speaks during a joint press conference held with Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison at Admiralty House in Sydney, Australia, on Feb. 28, 2020. Loren Elliott/File Photo/Reuters

New Zealand banned gatherings of 500 people or more on March 16 to prevent the spread of the coronavirus and Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern warned of tough action against anyone who violates new self-isolation rules for people arriving in the country.

New Zealand has had eight cases of the coronavirus and no deaths.