A public health expert is backing the suspension of flights from India, saying it's an absolutely necessary step.

The Government is temporarily banning arrivals, after a surge in people coming from the country who've tested positive for Covid-19.

The ban comes into force on Sunday, and runs until April 28th.

Otago University's Nick Wilson told Kate Hawkesby the move will reduce the risk for others on flights, in MIQ facilities, and New Zealand as a whole.

He says with the trans-Tasman bubble being so important, this step will make it more sustainable and feasible.

Wilson says we have to reduce the number of outbreaks, and this is one of the ways to do it.

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