Covid-19: NZ To Move To 'Red' At Midnight Tonight

COVID-19: NZ TO MOVE TO 'RED' at 11.59PM TONIGHT

As a consequence of 9 cases of Omicron being confirmed in the community in the Nelson/Motueka region, the PM has announced that New Zealand will move to traffic light 'red' from midnight TONIGHT.

All cases are in Motueka are connected to a family that travelled to a wedding celebration in Auckland. There were over 100 at the wedding, additionally there were large numbers associated with the flights, and they moved around in Auckland while there.

The Government is taking a 'stamp it out' approach. They have emphasised their desire for people to get their booster, where they are eligible to do so.

Take care and get tested if you have any symptoms.

Finally, don't panic buy at the supermarkets - this is not a lockdown. The supermarkets do not want to have to restrict quantities on any products.

RED SETTING

Red is the most restrictive traffic light setting, but domestic travel can continue. There would be no more borders around regions, such as the recent Auckland borders.

While lockdowns would not be widespread, there could be lockdowns localised to a workplace or school, for example, depending on what was happening in the outbreak.

In red, face coverings are mandatory when travelling on public transport, in retail and to an extent in education. Public facilities and retail outlets are open, with capacity limits.

A move to the red light setting will mean more restrictions on gatherings and businesses. Photo / Sylvie Whinray
A move to the red light setting will mean more restrictions on gatherings and businesses. Photo / Sylvie Whinray

With a vaccine pass, many businesses and events can have a maximum of 100 people, including hospitality, gyms, weddings and tangihanga. Without passes, hospitality services must remain contactless and the aforementioned gatherings are limited to 25 people.

Tertiary students must study remotely if they don't have a vaccine pass.
Gyms and close contact businesses such as hairdressers and beauty salons can open in red as long as public health measures are in place.