New Zealanders across the country are doing an amazing job at this unprecedented time. By staying home, you are helping to save lives. As we enter the second half of the Level 4 Lockdown period there are promising signs that we are starting to stamp out Covid-19, but we cannot be complacent.
This article summarises some key information for you and your family as we all work together to stamp out Covid-19.
Where can I get current advice and information?
In the first instance, visit covid19.govt.nz for detailed information about alert levels, health issues, self-isolation and assistance available, and for public health resources. You can also check out the Government’s WhatsApp channel by visiting covid19.govt.nz/WhatsApp. Make sure you have WhatsApp installed on your phone.
If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or need to self-isolate, contact the Healthline team (for free) on 0800 358 5453 or +64 9 358 5453 for international SIMS. You can also call your GP if you are feeling unwell and are unsure if you have COVID-19 symptoms.
To apply for financial assistance, visit Work and Income’s website.
To let Police know about people or businesses who aren’t following Alert Level 4 restrictions, go to www.police.govt.nz/105support
To report inflated prices, email pricewatch@mbie.govt.nz . Enclose any receipts or evidence you have.
If you need support getting essential supplies, contact your local Civil Defence Emergency Management Group: https://www.civildefence.govt.nz/resources/news-and-events/news/cdem-group-0800-numbers-for-supporting-communities/
For queries about visas or entry to New Zealand, check the comprehensive guidance on Immigration New Zealand’s website.
Our Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern is asking us all to do the following: Be Kind. Stay Home. Save Lives.
We are dealing with a global event which none of us has experienced before. We have to make big decisions, quickly, going hard and going early, because the situation demands it. We are pulling out all the stops to fight COVID-19 and to protect our people, their jobs and businesses and our economy.
The number one priority for us is the health of New Zealanders. Our health system is scaling up with extra staff, protective gear and equipment and testing is increased. Our Government is doing a lot but we cannot do this alone. We all have a role to play.
We need to go about live very differently than what we are used to in order to eliminate Covid-19 in New Zealand. The adverse effects of the virus increases as people age but young people aren’t bulletproof as shown by our numbers that the biggest group affected are in the 20-29 age group as of this week.
The best way we can stop the spread is by staying at home and breaking the chain. The majority of New Zealanders are playing their part and police are using their powers and enforcing penalties to those that aren’t following these important public health directions.
Staying at home isn’t easy but together we’ll get through this.
Be kind to our essential workers and protect them by continuing to play your part. Don’t undermine the hard work others do to keep you safe.
My very best wishes to you and your family during this challenging period. Together, we will get through.
– Michael Wood, MP for Mt Roskill and Senior Government Whip
