Covid-19 Official Government messages

Tuesday 24 March 2020

Council continues to encourage residents with concerns or questions to follow the Covid-19 official information, or for businesses.

Key messages to Tuesday 24 March are:

There is a four stage alert system. New Zealand is on Level 3 and will rise to level 4 by Thursday 26 March 2020. Restrictions will be in place for at least four weeks.
Staying home is essential for all New Zealanders.
Practice good hand washing hygiene, sneeze or cough into your elbow and if possible carry hand sanitizer and tissues.
If you are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms, call Healthline on 0800 358 5453 in the first instance.
Pharmacies and medical clinics will remain open. Where possible consultations will be over the phone and your clinic can advise on ordering repeat regular medication.
If you need to leave your home for essential supplies, personal walks and active travel, practice physical distancing of two metres at all times.
Public transport and domestic air travel will only be available for essential workers and transport of essential goods.
Schools are closed except to the children of essential workers such as medical service staff and police.
All non-essential businesses must close within 48 hours, including bars, restaurants, cinemas and playgrounds. Essential services, such as supermarkets, pharmacies, emergency services, veterinary services and medical services will remain open.
Please support at risk people, those over 70 and with certain medical conditions, as they should stay home as much as possible.
Limit all non-essential domestic travel.
In response to COVID-19 the Government is acting to support the economy. The $12.1 billion package includes:
- a wage subsidy scheme
- leave and self-isolation support
- business cash flow and tax measures.
- If you’re not sure what assistance may be available, don’t know who to contact for help or if would just like more information, call the free government helpline on 0800 779 997 (8am–1am, 7 days a week).
New Zealand’s borders were closed to almost all international visitors as of 23:59 on Thursday 19 March 2020. Anyone entering New Zealand has been asked to self-isolate themselves for 14 days from arrival.