What you need to know
New Zealand is now in a nationwide level 4 lockdown, with a total of five Covid-19 cases in the community confirmed to be the more transmissible Delta variant.
The four new cases announced Wednesday morning were all linked to the 58-year-old Devonport man – a tradesman – who tested positive on Tuesday. The four include a colleague of the man and close contacts, including a nurse who works at Auckland hospital.
The entire country is at the highest alert level for at least three days while Auckland and Coromandel, where the man spent the weekend, are at level 4 for at least seven days. A list of locations of interest can be found here.
Level 4 means it’s likely that the disease is not contained.
Testing and vaccinations
A full list of community testing centres can be found here. If you think you need a test, call Healthline first on 0800 358 5453. If you get tested, stay home until you have a negative test result. There is no charge to get a test, regardless of your citizenship, immigration status, nationality or medical insurance.
You will need to supply contact details to get a test. A National Health Index (NHI) number is good to have but not crucial.
The most common test is a swab to the back of your nose, which some people describe as a “tickle” and others say is “uncomfortable.”
The vaccination programme has been put on hold for 48 hours. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said it was to ensure the safety of frontline health workers, as officials tried to get to grips with how wide the latest community case may have spread.
Stay at home
People are instructed to stay home in their bubble other than for essential movement. Safe recreational activity is allowed in the local area but, given the Delta variant is suspected, even more caution is recommended from others to limit transmission.
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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76.5% Yes
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22.7% No
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0.8% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
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