New Zealand has teamed up with Big Blue to provide ActivePure units at athletes' accommodation at Tokyo 2020 ©Big Blue

New Zealand has stepped up the fight against potential coronavirus infections at Tokyo 2020 by installing new health technology at athletes' accommodation here.

One hundred ActivePure units have been donated to the team by Big Blue, a water solutions company.

The technology is said to provide continuous clean air while disinfecting surfaces.

It works against various bacteria and viruses, it is claimed, including coronavirus.

"The health of our 211 athletes is our number one priority and this extra level of environmental control and infection protection to keep them safe means a lot to us, them and their families," said New Zealand's Tokyo 2020 Chef de Mission Rob Waddell, an Olympic gold medallist in single sculls rowing at Sydney 2000.

"I would like to thank Big Blue for donating the ActivePure units to accompany our team in Tokyo. 

New Zealand Chef de Mission Rob Waddell welcomed the tie-up with Big Blue ©Getty Images
New Zealand Chef de Mission Rob Waddell welcomed the tie-up with Big Blue ©Getty Images

"Beyond our COVID-19 efforts, ActivePure also protects against the common cold, flu, and staph, allowing our athletes to focus on performing their best on game day."

Big Blue Managing Director Paul Wiggans added: "After being appointed the exclusive partner to bring ActivePure down under, we saw how it could become a valuable asset to safeguarding our athletes as they compete at the 2020 Olympic Games.

"We wish our athletes all the best in achieving their Olympic goals."

Three athletes have tested positive for COVID-19 inside the Olympic Village - two South African footballers and a Czech beach volleyball player.