WELLINGTON, April 14 (CNN) - Authorities in New Zealand have extended the country's state of national emergency for another seven days in order to support the government's efforts to combat the spread of Covid-19.

The initial declaration was made on March 25, and today's extension is the third of its kind. The seven-day declaration can be extended as many times as necessary, Minister of Civil Defense Peeni Henare said in a statement.

The state of emergency provides those managing the response in an emergency the ability to access powers they would not normally have, but might require now to implement and enforce these measures, "including managing roads, traffic and public places; providing first aid, food, shelter and accommodation," Henare said.

New Zealand has reported 1,366 coronavirus cases and nine Covid-19 related fatalities (four new deaths), according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University.