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As reported by XinhuaNet, New Zealand's regulatory authority Medsafe has granted provisional approval to the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine for administration on individuals 18 years of age and older, COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins said on Wednesday.

"New Zealand secured 2 million doses of the Janssen vaccine through an advance purchase agreement last year. We purchased a portfolio of vaccine options to provide us with flexibility, and the approval of a second COVID-19 vaccine is welcome news," Hipkins said in a statement.

"The medical evidence shows Janssen is a very safe and effective vaccine. It is a great addition to our vaccine options," the minister said, adding "the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine has also received emergency or provisional approval in Canada, the United States and Australia".

"As a single dose vaccine, it may be useful in hard-to-reach locations or emergencies, or for those who can not get the Pfizer vaccine", he said.

As per the reports of XinhuaNet, New Zealand is already receiving significant deliveries of the Pfizer vaccine and has secured enough doses of the Pfizer vaccine for the population of New Zealand and its Pacific neighbors in 2021.

"Provisional approval is the first step in the process. Cabinet will weigh up the options on the best use of the Janssen vaccine following advice from officials. A Cabinet 'decision to use' can be expected sometime in August," Hipkins said.