Travellers to New Zealand need to return a negative test before they can enter the country if they have been in Australia for more than 72 hours.

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A spokesperson for the health department said because the test is a requirement of New Zealand, the test and associated costs would need to be borne by the potential traveller.

Three private pathology clinics have been tasked with testing prospective travellers, while other asymptomatic Tasmanians wishing to receive a test need to take the same avenue.

While no GP referral is required for a test at the Launceston pathology clinic for New Zealand travellers, any other reason for testing must be ordered by a GP.

The spokesperson confirmed, although rare, asymptomatic COVID-19 cases could spread the virus.

Asymptomatic cases are instructed to undertake private testing to maintain efficiency with state run testing facilities.

Public Tasmanian government testing facilities are run throughout the state and the spokesperson said staffing was adequate.

"The public facilities are staffed based on need. This ensures community demand is met," they said.

The spokesperson said the cost of private testing was a matter for pathology clinics and GPs.

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