THE Hunter has recorded its first new case of coronavirus in more than two weeks, ending what was an encouraging run of virus free days for the region as the government looks to lift restrictions and re-open parts of the economy.
Data from NSW Health released on Sunday showed the region's total coronavirus cases had increased by one to 277 in the 24 hours to 8pm on Saturday evening.
Another day of no new cases on Saturday would have marked more than two weeks since the Hunter New England Health District recorded a positive test around Anzac Day.
But the total number of cases in the region is actually less than it was two weeks ago, due to the removal of six cases previously attributed to the health district because subsequent screening showed they were not positive tests.
Health Minister Greg Hunt said six states and territories reported no new cases overnight to Sunday, with just NSW and Victoria recording new cases of coronavirus.
Mr Hunt said there were 12 new cases - 10 in Victoria, and two in NSW taking the state's total to 3053.
NSW Health says a total of 2515 people have recovered from the virus statewide.
