Over the next few days the last few returnees will reach New Zealand in time to do their 14 days of isolation, and get out before Christmas.

Some of their stories are being told by artist Ruby Jones, who is creating 28 works while staying in managed isolation.

Jones, who went viral in 2019 with her artwork depicting two women embracing – one a Muslim wearing a hijab – with the message: "This is your home and you should have been safe here," is working on a new commission for posterity.

Jones' experience will mirror that of those who undertake 14 days of isolation after entering Aotearoa. She will stay in an Accor hotel at night and be located in the same studio space each day.

She won't be socially isolated, however, as she interviews some of the unsung heroes of the pandemic, including hotel staff, public servants and healthcare workers.

Jones told Tim Dower she is doing one illustration a day,

"I've been doing two interviews a day of returnees and hotel staff members, and getting their stories and pulling out little parts of those that I think would make a good picture."

She says everyone has been willing to share their stories. 

LISTEN ABOVE