Hi
At 11.59pm last night, Tuesday 17 August 2021, everywhere in New Zealand moved to Alert Level 4.
From what we know so far, this is the right call. While this isn't what we wanted to hear, and it will be hard, we know that the only way to beat COVID-19 and the potential Delta variant is a swift response, sharp and short lockdown to stop any outbreak.
Alert Level 4 is about reducing contact between people to essential contact only.
Here's what you need to know:
- All of New Zealand moved to Alert Level 4 from midnight last night, Tuesday 17 August 2021, for at least three days. Some regions, including the Coromandel, are likely to remain at Level 4 for longer.
- All businesses must close to the public, unless they are a supermarket, pharmacy, dairy, or petrol station. Unlike last year, there appears to be no provision for the online sale of essential goods. We are seeking urgent clarification on this and will advise you of any changes as they are released.
- People are instructed to stay at home in their
bubble other than for essential personal movement.
- Travel is severely limited.
- All gatherings are cancelled and all public venues are closed.
- Business premises are closed except for essential services.
- Educational facilities are closed.
- Safe recreational activity is allowed in your local area.
- If currently travelling, people have 48 hours to return to usual place of residence.
- Further information on doing business at Level 4 is here
Locations of interest
There are a number of locations of interest, throughout Auckland and the Coromandel region. Please see here for the locations of interest.
Financial support for business
The wage subsidy and the resurgence support payments will be made available to all New Zealand businesses that meet eligibility criteria. More details are expected today and applications will likely open from this Friday. Click here for more.
Have questions or need advice?
COVID-19 business support payments and financial assistance are available. Visit huttvalleynz.com and hvchamber.org.nz for local information updated daily. These are the official Covid-19 business support sites for the Hutt Valley, supported by your Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce, Hutt City Council and Upper Hutt City Council.
The plan remains the same, we go hard and early. We've got more on our side this time, with the numbers of those vaccinated increasing, putting us in a better position to control any outbreak. While this throws us back into uncertainty, this Alert Level change gives us the very best
chance to control any outbreak and stamp out COVID-19 again. As we learn more, we will keep you updated.
Wear a mask. Look after yourselves, friends and family, and look after your team.
Kia kaha,
Mark, and the whole Hutt Valley Chamber of Commerce team