This has been a hard column to write this month as for all of us it’s been a tough few months, but together, we’ve pulled out all the stops to keep each other safe. Our hard work made our move to Step 2 possible. Now, we can begin to look ahead to summer, a happy Christmas and the new possibilities on the horizon – but these depend on us all sticking to the rules and continuing to lift our vaccination rates.

This year, the key to a safe summer is simple: ensuring as many people as possible have had their two doses of the COVID vaccine, so we can all do more of what we enjoy. It’s been fantastic to see so many Aucklanders getting vaccinated – and encouraging their friends, family and workmates to get their vaccine, too. More than 3.5 million Kiwis have now been fully vaccinated.

We know that getting vaccinated means you’re less likely to pass COVID on to your loved ones and people who can’t get vaccinated, like young children. Soon, being fully vaccinated will open up more opportunities for us and our businesses, too.

Right now, more than 90% of eligible people in each of Auckland’s three DHBs have received at least one dose. Once all three DHBs reach 90% fully vaccinated, which could happen in a matter of weeks, our region will transition to the new COVID-19 Protection Framework. Under this framework, if you’re not fully vaccinated, there could be everyday things you’ll miss out on.

If you’re vaccinated, you’ll be able to visit bars and restaurants, reconnect with family and friends, and do the things you love. Businesses that require people to show they’re fully vaccinated before entry will operate with fewer restrictions. This will help protect us into the future, while providing a pathway out of lockdowns.

That’s why it’s so important to get your first dose now, so you’re ready to go when our new framework kicks in.

The Government has also announced extra help for businesses to ensure they’re supported as we make the transition to the new framework. This includes doubling the Resurgence Support Payment, so businesses can access up to $43,000 every two weeks. You can find out more about the extra support at covid19.govt.nz.

I know we’re all looking forward to doing more here in Auckland once we move into the COVID-19 Protection Framework. If you haven’t yet, get out and get your free COVID-19 vaccine as soon as you can – and make sure your friends and family know they’ll need to be fully vaccinated to enjoy the things they love this summer. – Marja Lubeck, Labour list MP based in Kaipara ki Mahurangi