1179 days ago

Lockdown: Changes to public transport, health services and Covid-testing in Otago

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Otago News

Otago, along with the rest of New Zealand, has entered level 4 lockdown which means closing of public facilities, changes to health services, and limiting of public transport.

Healthcare facilities across the Southern DHB will remain open during lockdown, but the majority of scheduled surgeries and outpatient appointments have been postponed for the next three days.

The Covid-19 vaccination programme has been suspended for the next 48 hours, however those with potential symptoms were urged to contact their GP or call 0800 VIRUS-19 (0800 847 8719).

There was capacity for testing and opening of more testing sites if required.

However, those with symptoms were urged not to attend the Emergency Department.

Aurora Energy advised that it would continue to respond to emergency faults and carry out essential safety work on the network during level 4.

There will however be no planned power outages, unless required for essential safety work. Pre-planned work on the network will be deferred until the alert level changes.

The Queenstown Lakes District Council has closed all service centres, sport and recreation facilities, playgrounds and libraries until further notice.

The main council phone line is operating on (03) 441 0499 with priority given to urgent issues.

Queenstown buses are running to the usual timetable on Wednesday but are for essential workers and essential travel only.

Covid-19 testing is available at Queenstown Medical Centre at the Isle St practice.

People are asked to book ahead for swabs on (03) 441 0500.

Anyone who has been in Auckland or Coromandel since last Thursday, August 12, who needs a Covid-19 test will need to remain outside the Isle St building and follow staff/signage instructions.

More messages from your neighbours
18 hours ago

Become an SPCA Foster Hero!

The Team from SPCA Queenstown - Vet Partnership & Op Shop

Kitten season has arrived, and over the next six months, over 8,000 cats and kittens will come into SPCA’s care. Please help us give these babies the best start in life and sign up to be a foster parent today! It's not just cats and kittens - we are also urgently seeking foster homes for dogs and small animals.

Fostering saves lives and helps these tiny babies grow into healthy, well-adjusted adults, ready for adoption. We cover all training and costs. All you need is time and love to spare!

Sign up today and save a life!

23 days ago

What's your favourite recipe for gooseberry?

Mei Leng Wong Reporter from NZ Gardener & Get Growing

Love gooseberries? Share your favourite way to enjoy them. We're looking for our readers' favourite family recipes for this delicious crop. Send yours to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the magazine, you will receive a free copy of our December 2024 issue.

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5 days ago

Poll: How should Guy Fawkes be celebrated?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

While it is a fun occasion, fireworks on Guy Fawkes Night has caused much conflict over the years, upsetting our pets and disrupting the sleep of neighbours.

How should we celebrate Guy Fawkes Night? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.

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How should Guy Fawkes be celebrated?
  • 28.8% With a city-wide public fireworks display
    28.8% Complete
  • 20% Small fireworks displays in each community
    20% Complete
  • 7.3% Keep it as is
    7.3% Complete
  • 33.5% We shouldn't celebrate it!
    33.5% Complete
  • 9.9% Anything but fireworks
    9.9% Complete
  • 0.5% Other - I'll share below
    0.5% Complete
3420 votes