3 September 2021

Kia ora koutou katoa,

There has been less to announce this week with New Zealand getting used to living under Alert Levels 3 and 4. Northland has now joined other parts of the country at Alert Level 3 and we expect an announcement on Monday about next steps.

I did want to take the opportunity to say I hope you, your loved ones and communities are doing okay. We may have got 'used to' living under certain Alert Levels but it can still be a real challenge, especially for people in Auckland who face tighter restrictions.

I am fortunate enough to be able to work from home. It is not always easy but a Linkedin post made me stop and think.

It said 'The best thing about working from home is:

• I have work
• I have a home.'

That made me count my blessings. Not everyone is in that position. COVID-19 has left people unable to work and struggling to feed themselves. One of the things I like best about this country is the way communities rally round and support others. That is especially true of our ethnic communities. We have heard some heart-warming stories of people and organisations who have made sure people are fed and cared for. I would like to thank everyone in our communities for their kindness and commitment to others. 

Government support is available. In addition, information on support with food and essential items has been added to the translation section of the COVID-19 website. You will find it under each different language section.

A reminder of some key information

We hosted a COVID-19 session with ethnic community leaders from national bodies on Wednesday. It was a very useful discussion with lots of issues raised. One of the things that came up was the danger of information overload. There is a lot of material being sent to people, but it was also noted that we do not want anyone to miss out. With that in mind I would like to share a quick reminder of some key information.

Golden rules

Everyone aged 12 and over can book their vaccination

Vaccination is now open for everyone aged 12 and over. People can book an appointment online or by calling 0800 28 29 26. This phone line has interpreters.

Where to get more information

The covid19.govt.nz website remains the central source of information and updates on COVID-19. It includes comprehensive information translated into multiple languages. 

We are here to help

Our regional teams are here to help. If you need to get in touch with us, or need help connecting with support, here is a list of our Regional Managers. We would be delighted to talk with you. 

Northern Region (upper North Island)
Nandita Mathur - 027 299 8031

Central (central and lower-North Island)
Kudakwashe Tuwe - 027 213 5972

Southern Region (South Island)
Shane Whitfield – 029 200 4625

If you prefer, you can reach us by email at info@ethniccommunities.govt.nz

Please keep sharing key information with your communities, and take care of yourselves, your families and loved ones.

Ngā mihi nui,

Mervin Singham
Chief Executive, Ministry for Ethnic Communities