A Kiwi couple who returned to New Zealand during the COVID-19 pandemic has thanked quarantine staff for being "compassionate" and putting their lives on the line for travellers.
Engaged couple Ruby and Paul were out of the country on an OE when the virus took off around the world.
"Everyone was like you've got to get back now, you've got to go today and do a runner," Ruby told The Project on Thursday.
The pair managed to get on a plane back to New Zealand in June and spent their mandatory 14 days in managed isolation in the Holiday Hotel near Auckland airport.
They said the staff were strict, including not letting Paul's mother get near them when dropping off supplies, but they are thankful for their service.
"I think the Government is doing a great job," Paul said.
Ruby said they were "really grateful for the experience" they had.
"The Ministry of Health and just the staff, they were all really helpful, compassionate and they are putting their lives on the line to some degree."
During their stay, they were tested on day 3 and day 12 and were allowed managed exercise.
"As long as we socially distanced with people, there was a courtyard space and a little circular route of the car park we would do 45 minutes of that a day as well which was good exercise," Ruby says.
But they both said they were happy when their stay was finally over.
"Inside you were like I just want to be home," Paul told The Project.
"It was such a relief to see my family, I was really happy to see my mum and give her a hug. That was something really special for me."
Ruby said being let out was "really good, it was great and then it was overwhelming".
After visiting their family and going to the liquor store, the couple is now looking to establish themselves back in New Zealand.
"From here we are just pushing for a job, trying to set up our lives together, and just being thankful we are in a country that's appreciative and helpful."
