Auckland University students who may have been exposed to COVID-19 while overseas are being told to self-isolate in their pre-booked student accommodation.
A spokesperson told Newshub that students with a room in the university's accommodation "will be able to self-isolate there" for 14 days, in accordance with Ministry of Health guidelines.
"That's part of our commitment to their care and wellbeing," the spokesperson said on Tuesday. "We have very strict rules and protocols."
What are the potential risks?
Unease over the arrangement appears to be already circulating among parents. One "concerned parent" emailed Newshub on Tuesday morning, suggesting that the risks may outweigh the positives.
"This seems rather risky to all students in these halls - why would they take such a risk? I wonder if this is a [financial] decision? [And] would they make the same decision if [their] own children were in residence?" the parent said.
"I believe the students have had no say in this matter."
Anxieties have been fuelled by speculation that COVID-19 can be transmitted through building pipes. Earlier in February, Hong Kong health officials partially evacuated high-rise residents after two people on different floors became infected. A number of cases have been linked back to the apartment block, which has connected toilet discharge pipes.
During the 2003 SARS outbreak, there were more than 300 infections and 42 deaths after defective plumbing at the Amoy Gardens housing estate allowed the virus to spread through the building.
According to CNN, a virus could possibly be transmitted through a sewage system's floor drain and water closet, or the vent pipe becoming detached.