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Auckland is moving to Level 3, effective as of noon tomorrow (Wednesday) for three days.
It will be ALL of Auckland.
The rest of Aotearoa is moving to Level 2 for the same time period.
It will be ALL of Auckland.
The rest of Aotearoa is moving to Level 2 for the same time period.
The view is to
“Move quickly with a precautionary approach, with a look to limiting the effect on all New Zealanders as much as possible.”
Hard and fast.
“Move quickly with a precautionary approach, with a look to limiting the effect on all New Zealanders as much as possible.”
Hard and fast.
Positive tests came through at 3pm today (Tuesday 11th).
Jacinda found out at 4pm today.
Word went to ministers and government to prep for it.
Presser at 9:15pm to announce lock down.
6 hours after positive test found.
5 hours after government moved into action.
Ka pai
Jacinda found out at 4pm today.
Word went to ministers and government to prep for it.
Presser at 9:15pm to announce lock down.
6 hours after positive test found.
5 hours after government moved into action.
Ka pai
Moving onto large scale testing and contact tracing over the next three days.
Update due on Friday.
There will be daily pressers to keep us abreast of the situation.
Update due on Friday.
There will be daily pressers to keep us abreast of the situation.
Person who presented had a fever and a cough.
4 to 5 days from onset of symptoms to testing.
Multiple workplaces affected, which are further afield than south auckland (where the whānau are based).
More information will be distributed in the morning.
4 to 5 days from onset of symptoms to testing.
Multiple workplaces affected, which are further afield than south auckland (where the whānau are based).
More information will be distributed in the morning.
NZ move to level 2 is going to include social distancing.
Masks are recommended if social distancing isn't practical.
Honestly, mask up anyway. We've seen that it works well overseas.
Masks are recommended if social distancing isn't practical.
Honestly, mask up anyway. We've seen that it works well overseas.
In Auckland:
Schools and childcare are closed, unless they're the children of an essential worker.
Food delivery will be available this time though <3
Schools and childcare are closed, unless they're the children of an essential worker.
Food delivery will be available this time though <3
Aotearoa - make sure your places logs are up to date, including the MoH Covid tracker app.
Businesses - make sure you've got your covid codes printed and displayed in not shit places
Businesses - make sure you've got your covid codes printed and displayed in not shit places
Looking at another presser mid-morning tomorrow to give information on how locking down a single city is going to work.
Talking about road blocks, checks, and how to manage people.
Talking about road blocks, checks, and how to manage people.
"If we can get this right, we can limit the effect on the rest of New Zealand..... The orders are in place, and we are asking people to comply with them"
Basically, team of 5 million to the rescue.
Starting from the team of 1.7mil that make up wider Auckland
Basically, team of 5 million to the rescue.
Starting from the team of 1.7mil that make up wider Auckland
Question about what the elections will look like if we're in lock down.
Jacinda says that we've planned for level 2, but to speculate on it this far out is irresponsible.
Jacinda says that we've planned for level 2, but to speculate on it this far out is irresponsible.
End of presser.
Summary!
Summary!
As of 12 noon tomorrow, Wednesday the 12th of August, NZ is moving into split levels.
Auckland, all of it, is moving to Level 3.
The rest of Aotearoa is moving to Level 2.
This will stay in place until Midnight on Friday the 14th.
Auckland, all of it, is moving to Level 3.
The rest of Aotearoa is moving to Level 2.
This will stay in place until Midnight on Friday the 14th.
If you're in Level 2.
- Social Distancing
- Masks in places where social distancing isn't possible.
- Considering wearing a mask in public anyway.
- Businesses will stay open under the same protocol as last time.
- Wash your hands. Wash your hands. Wash your hands.
- Social Distancing
- Masks in places where social distancing isn't possible.
- Considering wearing a mask in public anyway.
- Businesses will stay open under the same protocol as last time.
- Wash your hands. Wash your hands. Wash your hands.
If you're in Level 3.
- Go home, stay home if you can.
- Pharmacies and Supermarkets will remain open.
- Schools and ECE centres are closed, except for the children of essential workers.
- Get tested if you have any symptoms.
- Wash your damn hands.
- Go home, stay home if you can.
- Pharmacies and Supermarkets will remain open.
- Schools and ECE centres are closed, except for the children of essential workers.
- Get tested if you have any symptoms.
- Wash your damn hands.
Band together Aotearoa.
Be kind.
Be diligent.
Look after your family, friends, and your neighbours.
<3
I'll keep this thread as my updates thread over the next few days, same as during last lock down.
Arohanui xx
Be kind.
Be diligent.
Look after your family, friends, and your neighbours.
<3
I'll keep this thread as my updates thread over the next few days, same as during last lock down.
Arohanui xx
Here's the link to the Covid 19 Alert System, which includes a pretty clear layout of the restrictions across all four levels. https://covid19.govt.nz/covid-19/restrictions/alert-system-overview/#covid-19-alert-system
Two updates today.
The first at 1030.
A second at 1600.
Click the linked tweet for more info
My previous tweet about this has been deleted due to a typo in the time, that’s what I get for trying to numbers before coffee.
https://twitter.com/annacwhyte/status/1293293863260446720?s=21 https://twitter.com/annacwhyte/status/1293293863260446720
The first at 1030.
A second at 1600.
Click the linked tweet for more info
My previous tweet about this has been deleted due to a typo in the time, that’s what I get for trying to numbers before coffee.
https://twitter.com/annacwhyte/status/1293293863260446720?s=21 https://twitter.com/annacwhyte/status/1293293863260446720
I’m currently in a truck, so will watch the presser and take notes, then tweet a summary afterwards rather than the usual at pace.
It’s a pity my phone won’t let me do both but hey.
You can’t always get what you want
(But sometimes you get what you need)
It’s a pity my phone won’t let me do both but hey.
You can’t always get what you want
(But sometimes you get what you need)
So this is what an hour worth of writing presser summary notes in the truck looks like.
Don’t worry - Pie was driving. I’m just sassy company and lifting assist.
Next stop: condensing and writing up.
Don’t worry - Pie was driving. I’m just sassy company and lifting assist.
Next stop: condensing and writing up.
Of the positive group, there was one grownup and one preschooler that travelled to Rotorua over the weekend been.
This was before their positive test, but after they became symptomatic.
All close and casual contacts are being traced but please, be vigilant team.
This was before their positive test, but after they became symptomatic.
All close and casual contacts are being traced but please, be vigilant team.
All affected workplaces have been closed, and everyone is being tested. This affects about 300 people across wider Auckland.
Contact tracing is happening, you might get some phone calls, keep an eye out.
Contact tracing is happening, you might get some phone calls, keep an eye out.
There is no stigma in getting tested.
There is no stigma in being sick, getting tested, or taking precautions.
If you need support, reach out.
There are provisions for food parcels, wage support, and 1737 if you’re in emotional distress.
It’s okay to be anxious.
There is no stigma in being sick, getting tested, or taking precautions.
If you need support, reach out.
There are provisions for food parcels, wage support, and 1737 if you’re in emotional distress.
It’s okay to be anxious.
Aotearoa is prepared for tens of thousands of tests - we have nearly 300,000 tests ready to go and more on the way.
We can test & process 12,000 tests a day.
Additional testing stations are being set up, check DHB websites for specific locations.
We can test & process 12,000 tests a day.
Additional testing stations are being set up, check DHB websites for specific locations.
If you show symptoms, no matter where you are, please get tested.
There is no cost associated with it.
If you’re asympomatic, there is no need to get tested UNLESS Healthline or your GP says get tested.
If a medical professional says get tested, you should do the thing.
There is no cost associated with it.
If you’re asympomatic, there is no need to get tested UNLESS Healthline or your GP says get tested.
If a medical professional says get tested, you should do the thing.
All our aged care facilities are going into full lockdown, nationwide, effective as of noon today.
Essential deliveries only.
No visitors in or out.
Essential deliveries only.
No visitors in or out.
A reminder of what Level 3 restrictions look like:
- Household bubbles
- Social distancing
- Essential workers only
- Schools closed, except for children of essential workers
- Walkies and fishing is fine, no activities that require close contact (Soz football & rugby)
- Household bubbles
- Social distancing
- Essential workers only
- Schools closed, except for children of essential workers
- Walkies and fishing is fine, no activities that require close contact (Soz football & rugby)
Nationwide - all weddings and tangi are restricted to 10 attendees.
If you can stay home, you should.
Social distancing.
Ideally masks in public but they’re not compulsory.
Wash your hands.
If you can stay home, you should.
Social distancing.
Ideally masks in public but they’re not compulsory.
Wash your hands.
Parliament was due to dissolve at 11am this morning, but this has been postponed until Monday.
This is to allow for the government to undertake emergency actions if needed, with far less lag than if they dissolve and have to reform.
This is to allow for the government to undertake emergency actions if needed, with far less lag than if they dissolve and have to reform.
Onto question time!
Q: What was the delay between the positive test and the trip to Rotorua? Did they know before they went?
A: The test came back positive after the trip to Rotorua, and was undertaken as part of the contact tracing for the initial potential positive test.
A: The test came back positive after the trip to Rotorua, and was undertaken as part of the contact tracing for the initial potential positive test.
Q: How long has community transmission been happening? Did you know?
A: All our indicators were for zero community transmission, reported respiratory infections are well down too.
This is why we're testing surfaces, as well as contacts - we know it can survive on hard surfaces
A: All our indicators were for zero community transmission, reported respiratory infections are well down too.
This is why we're testing surfaces, as well as contacts - we know it can survive on hard surfaces
Jacinda was pretty unimpressed at people speculating that the government knew about the potential community transmission well before the public did, and went through the timeline - 6.5 hours from positive test to last night's presser - and basically says don't be a shit stirrer.
Q: Why aren't you making masks compulsory?
A: Because not everyone will have them, or the means to access them, and we don't want to fine people for non-compliance.
We are recommending face masks, we're taking actions to make them readily available. Incl in food parcels.
A: Because not everyone will have them, or the means to access them, and we don't want to fine people for non-compliance.
We are recommending face masks, we're taking actions to make them readily available. Incl in food parcels.
If you don't have access to a mask, please cover your face. Even just a scarf is better than nothing.
It shows that you care about the people around you.
That said - masks will be compulsory on flights from AKL, and will be provided by Air NZ for all passengers.
It shows that you care about the people around you.
That said - masks will be compulsory on flights from AKL, and will be provided by Air NZ for all passengers.
(Towards the end of the presser the questions didn't get repeated into the mics, so these next few will be answers/statements only as I couldn't hear the questions over my phone)
Please check in with your friends and family, especially if they're in Auckland.
1737 is available if you're feeling distressed, please use it rather than health line.
Our leaders will continue to give us info and updates as they get it.
But they have plans. & great people.
1737 is available if you're feeling distressed, please use it rather than health line.
Our leaders will continue to give us info and updates as they get it.
But they have plans. & great people.
There has been additional funding put into immediate support schemes, such as for food parcels, and the leave support scheme for those who are told to isolate.
There will be a discussion and decision made around additional longer term support as needed.
There will be a discussion and decision made around additional longer term support as needed.
Our election is in 6 weeks.
The Electoral Commission has solid plans for an election under Level 2 & lower.
The concern with voting under higher levels is that people won't feel safe to do so, which doesn't give us a fair democratic process.
The Electoral Commission has solid plans for an election under Level 2 & lower.
The concern with voting under higher levels is that people won't feel safe to do so, which doesn't give us a fair democratic process.
If needed, the election can be bumped out as far as November 21st under the standing provisions.
For it to be moved any later than that is a bit of a gnarly democratic dance, but it can be done if needed and agreed to.
For it to be moved any later than that is a bit of a gnarly democratic dance, but it can be done if needed and agreed to.
And that was the end of the presser.
It completed at around 1250.
The next presser is due to start at 1600, which is about 3 hours from now.
I'll actually live tweet that one.
Less napkins, more typing. Maybe with a nice cuppa.
It completed at around 1250.
The next presser is due to start at 1600, which is about 3 hours from now.
I'll actually live tweet that one.
Less napkins, more typing. Maybe with a nice cuppa.
There's a part of me that feels like it's my democratic duty to cover Judith Collins' press conference.
But, as I've said more than once in the last 7 months, I'm trying to keep these threads information rather than reckons.
And definitely no bullshit or straw grasping.
But, as I've said more than once in the last 7 months, I'm trying to keep these threads information rather than reckons.
And definitely no bullshit or straw grasping.
4pm presser has started and finally loaded - thank you for doing the simultaneous stream to facebook!
We have a +1 covid case in managed isolation.
There are an additional 4 probable cases, with symptoms, that are linked to the 4 of the outbreak that was announced last night/this morning.
They are in iso, contact tracing is happening.
There are an additional 4 probable cases, with symptoms, that are linked to the 4 of the outbreak that was announced last night/this morning.
They are in iso, contact tracing is happening.
As of today, just over 200 close contacts have been identified.
Of those 200, more than 100 of them have been contacted directly.
Everyone from the workplaces has been told specifically to stay home until they hear otherwise.
Of those 200, more than 100 of them have been contacted directly.
Everyone from the workplaces has been told specifically to stay home until they hear otherwise.
Very serious step being undertaken, publicly busting out the 1956 Health Order number 65 (I think?) and 70?
Has named the work places.
Anyone who works there, lives with people who works there, contracts to, or has visited the work places, to isolate at home.
Has named the work places.
Anyone who works there, lives with people who works there, contracts to, or has visited the work places, to isolate at home.
If you directly affected by the order to stay at home and need financial assistance to do so, you can ring WINZ on
0800 559 009
0800 559 009
All of this information will be posted on the Covid 19 website in short order.
An update to the Health Order makes it mandatory to display the NZ COVID Tracer App QR code to be displayed at ALL EGRESSES permanently.
Businesses's have one week to comply.
Businesses's have one week to comply.
An update to the Health Order has also made it mandatory for everyone who is leaving Auckland on a plane to wear a face mask.
No exceptions.
This is as indicated this morning.
No exceptions.
This is as indicated this morning.
Our Healthline service has 600 on the phone lines, with another hundred due to start tomorrow, and another 100 for the day after - to take us up to 800.
Which. Is pretty great.
Which. Is pretty great.
The Covid 19 leave support scheme is there to support all businesses and employees who need to take time off to isolate.
This is $580 a week for full time employees.
This is $580 a week for full time employees.
The wage subsidy continues as previously extended - closing on the 1st of Sept.
Business support loans can still be applied for - same criteria as before.
Business support loans can still be applied for - same criteria as before.
If lockdown continues past these three days, a targeted relief fund may be put in place for Auckland. This is being discussed and will be announced if needed.
This is what the large slush fund was put aside for, because it was almost inevitable.
This is what the large slush fund was put aside for, because it was almost inevitable.
Reiteration that the best thing we can do is to continue with our public health measures.
Social distancing.
Cover your faces.
Wash your hands.
Social distancing.
Cover your faces.
Wash your hands.
Q&A time.
I'll filter these down to questions that are relevant, new, or particularly interesting.
I'll filter these down to questions that are relevant, new, or particularly interesting.
Q: Are the four probable cases related to the 4 confirmed cases?
A: Yes, they're all within the close contacts circle so far.
A: Yes, they're all within the close contacts circle so far.
Q: How many people are going to be within the contact tracing circle?
A: We're expecting up to the other side of a thousand people to be contacted as part of this so far.
There are expedited process in places for identified close contacts, and close contacts of close contacts.
A: We're expecting up to the other side of a thousand people to be contacted as part of this so far.
There are expedited process in places for identified close contacts, and close contacts of close contacts.
Q: Why the focus on Rotorua rather than closer to the homes of the confirmed cases?
A: Well, we've put Auckland into Level 3 so that's a broad lock down and testing regime. We're focussing on Rotorua because it's casual contacts that still have freedom of movement (basically)
A: Well, we've put Auckland into Level 3 so that's a broad lock down and testing regime. We're focussing on Rotorua because it's casual contacts that still have freedom of movement (basically)
Q: There no longer appears to be a requirement for businesses to maintain a register of people. What's changed?
A: We're essentially still asking businesses to help maintain a register by making the QR codes compulsory, but realised there was some double ups of responsibilities.
A: We're essentially still asking businesses to help maintain a register by making the QR codes compulsory, but realised there was some double ups of responsibilities.
Q: Have you given more thought to moving the date of the election?
A: We're in the first 24 hours of what looks to be a resurgence, so we've been focussing on that rather than politics. Our focus is on the health response, and supporting people's jobs.
A: We're in the first 24 hours of what looks to be a resurgence, so we've been focussing on that rather than politics. Our focus is on the health response, and supporting people's jobs.
Update - All 200 identified close contacts have been contacted!
Now they're working through the rolling additional close contacts, as well as the casual contacts.
A question about whether this is satisfactory.
Fuck yes it is.
(The people in charge swore less than I did)
Now they're working through the rolling additional close contacts, as well as the casual contacts.
A question about whether this is satisfactory.
Fuck yes it is.
(The people in charge swore less than I did)
Gerry Brownlie is slinging shit.
Jacinda is /furious/ at his accusations that the government knew ahead of time, kept it to themselves, and are trying to fuck people over.
Jacinda is /furious/ at his accusations that the government knew ahead of time, kept it to themselves, and are trying to fuck people over.
Jacinda would like to ask the Opposition to channel their energy into working with our Government, against the pandemic.
To support healthcare, income, and the people.
To support healthcare, income, and the people.
"Can we please keep the politics out of this? We are in the middle of a resurgence that no one wanted, and now we need to work together to stamp it out. Once we've done back they can get back to politicing"
TAUTOKO <3 <3
TAUTOKO <3 <3
Eugh, I doubled up on a word. But I'm not going to delete it
Q: People are getting turned away from testing sites, especially in Auckland.
A: It's not a lack of tests or staffing, it's prioritising people who are symptomatic. Like the supermarkets, there's a lot of people there who don't all need to be there.
A: It's not a lack of tests or staffing, it's prioritising people who are symptomatic. Like the supermarkets, there's a lot of people there who don't all need to be there.
Q: How long are people waiting between tests and results?
A: All tests are currently being processed with 24 hours. All positives will be notified as soon as they come through. Negatives might take a little bit longer, especially with our current volume.
A: All tests are currently being processed with 24 hours. All positives will be notified as soon as they come through. Negatives might take a little bit longer, especially with our current volume.
Q: What's the threshold to move from Level 3 back down to Level 2?
A: There's a lot of variables that need to be taken into consideration, it's about tracing the source rather than pure numbers.
A: There's a lot of variables that need to be taken into consideration, it's about tracing the source rather than pure numbers.
Q: Why were you smirking? And why did you get a swab yesterday?
A: I was smiling at getting my swab yesterday *a few people laugh* after meaning to get one for a week. But I just got the text to say my swab is negative, actually.
A: I was smiling at getting my swab yesterday *a few people laugh* after meaning to get one for a week. But I just got the text to say my swab is negative, actually.
That's the end of the 4pm presser.
Summary:
- If you're crook, get tested. If you're not, please don't UNLESS you've been specifically asked to get a test.
- If you're a close contact, there are expedited testing processes.
- There is financial support in place for isolating.
Summary:
- If you're crook, get tested. If you're not, please don't UNLESS you've been specifically asked to get a test.
- If you're a close contact, there are expedited testing processes.
- There is financial support in place for isolating.
- If you're from the Opposition, remember that your first duty is to the people that you purport to serve not to politicking.
- If you run a company, QR codes are mandatory at all entrances.
- Maintain social distancing. Mask up. Wash your hands. Don't be a dick.
/done/
- If you run a company, QR codes are mandatory at all entrances.
- Maintain social distancing. Mask up. Wash your hands. Don't be a dick.
/done/
A heads up/disclaimer for all my new followers:
I do filter things during pressers, & from news articles etc. These threads tend to lean towards information that is useful for people, rather than being a blow by blow, and will sometimes get my opinions added.
Not sorry. Enjoy
I do filter things during pressers, & from news articles etc. These threads tend to lean towards information that is useful for people, rather than being a blow by blow, and will sometimes get my opinions added.
Not sorry. Enjoy
Jacinda just did a real cute, short summary of today’s stand ups over Facebook live.
It was pretty cute seeing all the lovely comments roll across my screen.
No new information, I just thought we all needed the warm and fuzzy.
It was pretty cute seeing all the lovely comments roll across my screen.
No new information, I just thought we all needed the warm and fuzzy.
Today's 1pm stand up.
13 new cases of Covid have been identified in the community, they are related to the 8 others.
This is officially a cluster.
13 new cases of Covid have been identified in the community, they are related to the 8 others.
This is officially a cluster.
Currently going through a run down of where all the positive cases have been found, and the control measures that are being put in place.
The decision has been made that all positive cases are going to be moved into quarantine facilities, rather than isolating at home.
This will be extended to close contacts and probable cases as needed.
This will be extended to close contacts and probable cases as needed.
There were more than 10,000 (ten thousand) swabs taken yesterday, with a bit over 5,000 of them having been processed by the midnight reporting cut off.
Auckland is going to have 15 testing sites.
There are additional pop up sites being added to Rotorua, Tūrangi, and Taupō
Auckland is going to have 15 testing sites.
There are additional pop up sites being added to Rotorua, Tūrangi, and Taupō
One of the people who have tested positive, visited an aged care facility during their incubation period.
They weren't symptomatic at that point and, so far, the tests from the aged care facility have come back negative.
They weren't symptomatic at that point and, so far, the tests from the aged care facility have come back negative.
Place by place run down of the family trip to Rotorua, with the day trip to Taupō, including times.
If you were in either town on the 8th & 9th, please check https://www.toiteora.govt.nz/news_and_events/id/1703
If you've overlapped, please self isolate and get a Covid test.
If you were in either town on the 8th & 9th, please check https://www.toiteora.govt.nz/news_and_events/id/1703
If you've overlapped, please self isolate and get a Covid test.
"As we're seen before, once we've identified a cluster it grows before it slows"
We haven't identified the index case (original case) but that isn't absolutely necessary to contain a cluster, as we've seen before.
We haven't identified the index case (original case) but that isn't absolutely necessary to contain a cluster, as we've seen before.
The 15 specialist Covid Clinics in Auckland are getting swamped.
If you're not ill, and have not been asked to get a test, please stay home.
If you are sick and don't want to wait in line, you can go to your GP. Please ring ahead so they can prepare for you.
If you're not ill, and have not been asked to get a test, please stay home.
If you are sick and don't want to wait in line, you can go to your GP. Please ring ahead so they can prepare for you.
17,000 vehicles have been processed across the 10 check points around Auckland's external borders.
Most of them were travelling for legit purposes.
312 vehicles were turned back, with a lot of them being people trying to travel to their holiday homes.
Most of them were travelling for legit purposes.
312 vehicles were turned back, with a lot of them being people trying to travel to their holiday homes.
NZ took less than 24 hours to go from confirming the first community covid case, to moving Auckland into Lock down and the rest of Aotearoa into level 2.
Other countries that have had resurgences have held off for weeks before locking down. So there's hope we'll be contained.
Other countries that have had resurgences have held off for weeks before locking down. So there's hope we'll be contained.
Tomorrow we will have a 1pm stand up.
There will be another briefing later in the day, once Cabinet has met. Time will be confirmed later today.
There will be another briefing later in the day, once Cabinet has met. Time will be confirmed later today.
Onto Q&A.
I'll filter through for questions that haven't been answered yet, different answers, or that I think are interesting.
I'll filter through for questions that haven't been answered yet, different answers, or that I think are interesting.
Q: With the cases and the movements that we've seen around the country, why aren't we going into a full lock down now?
A: We still need more time to make sure we've got all the information and are acting for the good of the country.
A: We still need more time to make sure we've got all the information and are acting for the good of the country.
Q: There are concerns that there's been a positive test in Wellington.
A: There was a positive test, but their subsequent tests have come back negative so it's being chalked up as a false positive.
A: There was a positive test, but their subsequent tests have come back negative so it's being chalked up as a false positive.
Q: Why are we moving positive cases into quarantine now, when we didn't last time?
A: We've seen that household transmission is the most common way to spread the virus, no matter how careful people are. We've got the facilities, we need to protect our communities.
A: We've seen that household transmission is the most common way to spread the virus, no matter how careful people are. We've got the facilities, we need to protect our communities.
Q: What are the results from the surface testing from that cool store?
A: The surface and environmental swabbing was undertaken this morning, we were seeking advice on how best to undertake it. We're expecting the results back today.
A: The surface and environmental swabbing was undertaken this morning, we were seeking advice on how best to undertake it. We're expecting the results back today.
Q: There's concerns that the staff of the facilities aren't tested often enough.
A: The isolation and quarantine facilities are well set up, and have good processes in place. Everyone involved in these have been tested regularly, and are being tested in this round of testing.
A: The isolation and quarantine facilities are well set up, and have good processes in place. Everyone involved in these have been tested regularly, and are being tested in this round of testing.
Q: There's a lot of confusion from businesses is Auckland about whether they can or can't open.
A: It's the same as it was last time. If you're unsure, call MBIE - they've got extra people on the phone lines to answer questions.
A: It's the same as it was last time. If you're unsure, call MBIE - they've got extra people on the phone lines to answer questions.
Q: There's an anti-lockdown protests planned, and misinformation being spread. What do you say?
A: We're working to minimise the time that people spend having their freedoms impinged.
Use our Covid-19 website and listen to Dr Bloomfield, they're our best points of information.
A: We're working to minimise the time that people spend having their freedoms impinged.
Use our Covid-19 website and listen to Dr Bloomfield, they're our best points of information.
If you're someone who views politicians suspiciously, please listen to the independent medical professionals.
We've seen misinformation being spread, we've seen this cost people their lives overseas, we don't want it to cost people their lives over here.
We've seen misinformation being spread, we've seen this cost people their lives overseas, we don't want it to cost people their lives over here.
Q: Are we looking at take home tests to reduce the waits.
A: No to take home tests, they risk being too inaccurate.
At the testing stations, it's collecting people's details that is taking time. Have your NHI number ready.
If you don't know your NHI, go to your GP
A: No to take home tests, they risk being too inaccurate.
At the testing stations, it's collecting people's details that is taking time. Have your NHI number ready.
If you don't know your NHI, go to your GP
Q: We're had reports of companies price gouging masks and hand sanitiser.
A: The government is actively watching for this using Price Watch, and have an email set up for reporting this.
Do let us know if you see any of this, so we can smash it.
A: The government is actively watching for this using Price Watch, and have an email set up for reporting this.
Do let us know if you see any of this, so we can smash it.
A reiteration from Jacinda that any form of face covering is better than no face covering, so if you can't afford to purchase surgical masks please don't be distressed about this.
Lots of questions about the MIQ, Border, and Ports staff testing, with some accusations that testing here has been lacking.
A: There are stringent processes in place, which the testing was there to supplement. We were already working to increase the testing anyway.
A: There are stringent processes in place, which the testing was there to supplement. We were already working to increase the testing anyway.
That's the end of Thursday the 13th's 1pm stand up.
Summary ahoy!
- 13 new cases identified in the community, all linked to the original 4.
- These cases have officially been designated a cluster.
- The family trip to Rotorua included a trip to Taupō.
Summary ahoy!
- 13 new cases identified in the community, all linked to the original 4.
- These cases have officially been designated a cluster.
- The family trip to Rotorua included a trip to Taupō.
- Positive cases are being moved into quarantine, rather than self isolating, to minimise chances of community spread
- There are some people trying to travel out of Auckland to their holidays homes, don't do this.
- Tomorrow there will be a 1pm & a second presser.
/end
- There are some people trying to travel out of Auckland to their holidays homes, don't do this.
- Tomorrow there will be a 1pm & a second presser.
/end
Detailed timeline of how the current outbreak in Auckland has been playing out.
Includes the specifics of the travel through Rotorua and Taupō. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/423466/timeline-of-new-zealand-s-newest-covid-19-community-transmission-cluster
Includes the specifics of the travel through Rotorua and Taupō. https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/423466/timeline-of-new-zealand-s-newest-covid-19-community-transmission-cluster
Confirmed cases at three new schools, and also MIT have been uodated this evening.
https://twitter.com/radionz/status/1293855657221697537?s=21 https://twitter.com/radionz/status/1293855657221697537
https://twitter.com/radionz/status/1293855657221697537?s=21 https://twitter.com/radionz/status/1293855657221697537
Also looking at testing numbers, Auckland made up nearly 8,000 of the 10,000 swabs taken yesterday.
Might be why there were some queues ay.
Might be why there were some queues ay.
Useful look at the concept of inert packaging as disease vectors.
Also with some beautiful photoshop work from @KiwiFarah for her header image, I think I know what's going on the christmas cards this year! https://twitter.com/ChiefSciAdvisor/status/1294013888703299585?s=20
Also with some beautiful photoshop work from @KiwiFarah for her header image, I think I know what's going on the christmas cards this year! https://twitter.com/ChiefSciAdvisor/status/1294013888703299585?s=20
1pm briefing for Friday the 14th of August.
13 new cases.
12 are confirmed as linked to our existing cluster.
1 is currently source unknown, and they're unwell enough to be in Hospital.
13 new cases.
12 are confirmed as linked to our existing cluster.
1 is currently source unknown, and they're unwell enough to be in Hospital.
Dr Bloomfield started with a smack down of the people who are being awful to healthcare workers, saying that physical and emotional abuse of these essential workers is absolutely unacceptable.
Which. Fucking duh.
Don't be a dick.
Which. Fucking duh.
Don't be a dick.
There are 38 people linked to the Auckland cluster that have moved into quarantine facilities, as per the announcement yesterday.
15,373 tests were processed in a single day yesterday!
Which is more than 3000 above the previous maximum capacity of 12,000 that was announced on Tuesday, fwiw.
Which is more than 3000 above the previous maximum capacity of 12,000 that was announced on Tuesday, fwiw.
Chris Hipkins is speaking today, rather than Jacinda.
Starts off with a reminder that the priority for testing needs to be with those who NEED to be tested, and that people will be turned away.
Starts off with a reminder that the priority for testing needs to be with those who NEED to be tested, and that people will be turned away.
If you are in a priority group, due to contacts or work places, OR are showing symptoms, do go get tested.
If you haven't been identified as a contact, aren't associated with an affected work place, identified as an At Risk worker, and aren't sick - don't go to testing stations
If you haven't been identified as a contact, aren't associated with an affected work place, identified as an At Risk worker, and aren't sick - don't go to testing stations
An additional 1.6 million masks have been distributed to the likes of social services and churches, for targeted distribution to people who are in need.
There's 1.4mil more that have been allocated but not distributed yet.
There's 1.4mil more that have been allocated but not distributed yet.
We're onto Q&A
As per, I'll filter to things that I think are useful and relevant, or answers that are particularly interesting.
As per, I'll filter to things that I think are useful and relevant, or answers that are particularly interesting.
Q: Why wasn't covid testing compulsory at the borders already?
A: It was, to a schedule, but we need to be considered about how often we ask people to undertake a medical procedure.
A: It was, to a schedule, but we need to be considered about how often we ask people to undertake a medical procedure.
Q: This was meant to be 3 days to take a stock take of where we're at. What is the picture?
A: The picture is a pretty good looking one, although we'll have more information for the government when they sit this afternoon.
A: The picture is a pretty good looking one, although we'll have more information for the government when they sit this afternoon.
Q: How concerned are you that the case that is in hospital hasn't yet been linked to the cluster?
A: I'm not overly concerned yet, the case is the newest one and only just made the 9am cut off this morning so it's in very early stages of investigation.
A: I'm not overly concerned yet, the case is the newest one and only just made the 9am cut off this morning so it's in very early stages of investigation.
Chris Hipkins laying the smack down on the rumour mill that the media is currently chomping away with.
"We don't want to spend our time chasing down and verifying rumours.... We'll make sure all the information is verifiable and fact based"
Good. Shit.
"We don't want to spend our time chasing down and verifying rumours.... We'll make sure all the information is verifiable and fact based"
Good. Shit.
Q: Is this a one off order? Or are we setting a precedent?
A: The order is currently being finessed, and will be released as soon as it's ready.
Q: So the staff are being tested without an order?
A: Yes, but no one has refused a test yet.
A: The order is currently being finessed, and will be released as soon as it's ready.
Q: So the staff are being tested without an order?
A: Yes, but no one has refused a test yet.
Q: What do you say to Winston Peters saying that the Auckland outbreak is linked to an isolation breech?
A: You can address that to him, he was very clear in that interview that he didn't get from official sources.
A: You can address that to him, he was very clear in that interview that he didn't get from official sources.
Q: Dr Bloomfield, can you speak to the Auckland borders? What are the processes that are in place?
A: That's outside of my scope.
A: That's outside of my scope.
Q: You said yesterday that there was no evidence of a super spreader event?
A: There isn't one? There's some people who shed an enormous amount of virus, which creates a far higher R rate - which can infect dozens, or even hundreds, of people rather than the usual 3-5
A: There isn't one? There's some people who shed an enormous amount of virus, which creates a far higher R rate - which can infect dozens, or even hundreds, of people rather than the usual 3-5
Q: Why don't you have protocol in place for shipping and at port?
A: We've had in place for more than a month, a physical maritime order, which means that crew can't leave the ships unless they HAVE to for unloading. We've been testing broadly right through.
A: We've had in place for more than a month, a physical maritime order, which means that crew can't leave the ships unless they HAVE to for unloading. We've been testing broadly right through.
Q: Are you seeing a lag in tests being processed?
A: A little, as there are huge numbers of tests coming through which has the labs working 24/7.
The focus has been on the high priority tests, like the close contacts and Auckland tests, but everything is within reason.
A: A little, as there are huge numbers of tests coming through which has the labs working 24/7.
The focus has been on the high priority tests, like the close contacts and Auckland tests, but everything is within reason.
Q: What do you say to the people who are abusing health care workers?
A: If you are being tested, ringing health line, or interacting with our healthcare system.
Please be patient.
Please be kind.
There are no grounds, under any circumstances, to be abusing those people.
A: If you are being tested, ringing health line, or interacting with our healthcare system.
Please be patient.
Please be kind.
There are no grounds, under any circumstances, to be abusing those people.
I will encourage people to look after not only themselves and their whānau, but also our health care workers. They have been working hard and they are very tired.
(Deleted and reposted because I missed the macron)
(Deleted and reposted because I missed the macron)
Q: Are you completely happy with the numbers of tests at the border?
A: I would have liked for the numbers to be higher, but overall yes.
A: I would have liked for the numbers to be higher, but overall yes.
Q: Why is the person in hospital being included in the cluster if they don't have a connection?
A: They're included in our confirmed cases.
They're not included in our cluster, as we don't have a confirmed connection. We'll update you when we do.
A: They're included in our confirmed cases.
They're not included in our cluster, as we don't have a confirmed connection. We'll update you when we do.
That's the end of today's 1pm stand up.
Summary!
- 13 new cases again today.
- 1 person in hospital, not currently linked to the cluster.
- People are beating up Healthcare Workers, this is unacceptable. They're doing their best, don't be assholes.
Summary!
- 13 new cases again today.
- 1 person in hospital, not currently linked to the cluster.
- People are beating up Healthcare Workers, this is unacceptable. They're doing their best, don't be assholes.
- Reminder that the 1pm stand ups, and the Unite Against Covid-19 website, are our official sources of information. Less rumour mill and scaremongering please.
- If you're not sick, & haven't been asked to get a test, please don't so we can prioritise those who need them.
/end
- If you're not sick, & haven't been asked to get a test, please don't so we can prioritise those who need them.
/end
Reminder that there's a 5:30pm presser this evening, which is when we'll get the announcement of how Aotearoa is moving through levels.
I'll summarise that onto this same thread.
If you need some joy, peek the MidWinterSecretSanta tag - it's a goddamned delight.
I'll summarise that onto this same thread.
If you need some joy, peek the MidWinterSecretSanta tag - it's a goddamned delight.
Jacinda and Dr Bloomfield have just arrived to take the podium for the 5:30 briefing and level announcement.
Serious faces on both of them, and also a Grant Robertson walked across frame.
Serious faces on both of them, and also a Grant Robertson walked across frame.
We have identified 29 cases thus far that are linked to one cluster.
One case that is not definitively linked, but seems likely to be linked.
38 people are in government quarantine.
We are only just past the 72 hour mark since the first case was discovered.
One case that is not definitively linked, but seems likely to be linked.
38 people are in government quarantine.
We are only just past the 72 hour mark since the first case was discovered.
We do not have an index case.
The sequence from the virus is NOT the same as any of the community cases from the previous outbreak, it appears to be new to New Zealand.
The sequence from the virus is NOT the same as any of the community cases from the previous outbreak, it appears to be new to New Zealand.
Our team of 5 million working together is how we are going to nail this virus, and our compliance with public health measures is how we're going to do it.
Auckland is showing a 60% reduction in travel over the last three days, which is even greater than last time!
Auckland is showing a 60% reduction in travel over the last three days, which is even greater than last time!
In keeping with our precautionary approach, we will go hard and go early.
We are maintaining the current levels for an additional 12 days, which brings us through to a full 14 day period.
Auckland remains at Level 3.
The rest of Aotearoa remains at Level 2.
We are maintaining the current levels for an additional 12 days, which brings us through to a full 14 day period.
Auckland remains at Level 3.
The rest of Aotearoa remains at Level 2.
There is nothing to suggest that we need to move to a Level 4 lock down, as there are no indications of extensive or uncontrolled community outbreak.
The desire is a short and sharp response, to get everyone back to normal as soon as we can.
The desire is a short and sharp response, to get everyone back to normal as soon as we can.
Cabinet has made an in principle decision to extend the wage subsidy scheme to protect businesses and jobs.
The final details are being worked out over the weekend and will be announced when possible. This extends until Level 3 is released.
The final details are being worked out over the weekend and will be announced when possible. This extends until Level 3 is released.
Our overall Covid 19 strategy remains elimination.
This requires the ongoing stamping out of the virus anytime it comes back. We have done this before, we went longer than anyone else with our 102 days virus free.
We can do this again.
This requires the ongoing stamping out of the virus anytime it comes back. We have done this before, we went longer than anyone else with our 102 days virus free.
We can do this again.
If you are in Auckland, stay home in your bubble.
If you are anywhere in NZ, use a mask and socially distance.
Businesses, print out and present your QR code posters.
Everyone - wash your hands, stay safe, and be kind
If you are anywhere in NZ, use a mask and socially distance.
Businesses, print out and present your QR code posters.
Everyone - wash your hands, stay safe, and be kind
Q&A time
Once again, I'll filter these to interesting or new questions and answers.
Once again, I'll filter these to interesting or new questions and answers.
Q: Was there consideration given to putting all of the North Island into Level 3 lock down?
A: No, we didn't. There was no advice to do so, and it doesn't fit within our criteria to do so.
A: No, we didn't. There was no advice to do so, and it doesn't fit within our criteria to do so.
Bloomfield:
There may well be the odd new case in 12 days time, but we're working towards how best to contact trace and test our way through this outbreak.
One of the key reasons for creating the very managed quarantine is in response to one of the Marist College cluster
There may well be the odd new case in 12 days time, but we're working towards how best to contact trace and test our way through this outbreak.
One of the key reasons for creating the very managed quarantine is in response to one of the Marist College cluster
families being in household quarantine for FOURTY SIX (46) days due to transmission bouncing around the household.
Q: What is the likely hood that we'll never find the index point?
A: The cluster is currently congregating around one particular workplace, but we are still trying to find that transmission point.
It seems very unlikely that it's a long burning virus ember out in the community.
A: The cluster is currently congregating around one particular workplace, but we are still trying to find that transmission point.
It seems very unlikely that it's a long burning virus ember out in the community.
Q: Obviously the election dates will need to be moved.
A: Umm. Excuse me? What makes you say that?
The Electoral Commission have made plans, and we haven't made any decisions on this yet as we've been focussed on our immediate actions.
A: Umm. Excuse me? What makes you say that?
The Electoral Commission have made plans, and we haven't made any decisions on this yet as we've been focussed on our immediate actions.
(The overall tone of some of these journos has gone from questioning to accusations, it's pretty aggressive and a big No Thank You from me)
Q: Don't you need to know the origin case to know for sure that covid has been contained and stamped out?
A: Not really, we've seen overseas that you don't need an index case to make these calls - Germany is a great example of this. It would be nice, but it's not a breaker.
A: Not really, we've seen overseas that you don't need an index case to make these calls - Germany is a great example of this. It would be nice, but it's not a breaker.
Q: What are the most recent modelling numbers that you have?
A: Talking to our modellers, it's really hard to model something like clusters as they're all absolutely unique. We're basing our actions off past clusters within NZ.
A: Talking to our modellers, it's really hard to model something like clusters as they're all absolutely unique. We're basing our actions off past clusters within NZ.
Q: What are we looking for if we are looking at a move to Level 4?
A: That's genuinely a good question. The criteria for Level 4 are multiple outbreaks, multiple sites of community transmissions, amongst others.
A: That's genuinely a good question. The criteria for Level 4 are multiple outbreaks, multiple sites of community transmissions, amongst others.
Q: Now that only a third of our population are in that higher level, are we still a team of five million?
A: Yes? It's just that some of us are now on the sidelines rooting for those who are in play. We're there to support, and make sure you check in with your people up there.
A: Yes? It's just that some of us are now on the sidelines rooting for those who are in play. We're there to support, and make sure you check in with your people up there.
Q: How do you feel about today's decision, Dr Bloomfield?
A: It's in keeping with what our public health advice was, from the group of specialists and the Auckland DHB.
(Jacinda) It's our role as Cabinet to take their advice, and balance it against the economic impact.
A: It's in keeping with what our public health advice was, from the group of specialists and the Auckland DHB.
(Jacinda) It's our role as Cabinet to take their advice, and balance it against the economic impact.
Q: Is there any advice that Cabinet didn't take?
A: (Bl) *pulls face* Uhh, do you mean today?
- Room laughs -
(Bl) Actually I don't think there's much.
(JA) No, I don't think there was anything major
A: (Bl) *pulls face* Uhh, do you mean today?
- Room laughs -
(Bl) Actually I don't think there's much.
(JA) No, I don't think there was anything major
Grant Robertson has taken the podium to speak to the economic decisions that have been made today.
OH FUCK YOU STOP IGNORING LIVE EVENTS IN YOUR EVERYONE IS BEING IMPACTED LIST FFS
Auckland, as our largest city, forms a massive part of our economy and the impact of this lock down has nationwide effects.
Which is why the wage subsidy is being extended nationwide.
Which is why the wage subsidy is being extended nationwide.
The specifics of how this wage subsidy extension will be applied, and other additional support mechanisms, will be announced on Monday.
This is what we put the 14bill aside for, in preparation for another rainy day, and it's proved prudent.
This is what we put the 14bill aside for, in preparation for another rainy day, and it's proved prudent.
Grant listed off a range of industries which have been affected by the limitations of Level 3 and Level 2, including BUT NOT LIMITED TO:
Hospitality
Retail
Sports
Tourism
I would like to yell about the arts again.
Hospitality
Retail
Sports
Tourism
I would like to yell about the arts again.
Q&A for Grant about economic implications.
I'll filter.
I'm not going not swear though, coz I'm mad.
I'll filter.
I'm not going not swear though, coz I'm mad.
Q: Did you consider limiting the wage subsidy to Auckland only?
A: Not really, when you look at the supply chain and the economic knock on effect, it has a nationwide effect.
A: Not really, when you look at the supply chain and the economic knock on effect, it has a nationwide effect.
Q: The economic impact is going to be longer than just two weeks, you're turning the economy off and on again. What's your plan?
A: Most business were finding that they were generating more revenue than they expected, but there is wriggle room if we need to continue support.
A: Most business were finding that they were generating more revenue than they expected, but there is wriggle room if we need to continue support.
Q: The head of the Reserve Bank says that the economy will work at a 70% capacity, but you've said 80%. What's the difference?
A: The Reserve Bank and the Treasury have different expectations of what our economy looks like, hence the difference. We're confident in our numbers.
A: The Reserve Bank and the Treasury have different expectations of what our economy looks like, hence the difference. We're confident in our numbers.
Q: Mayor Phil Gogh has been calling for additional support for Auckland Council, what consideration have you given to it?
A: We haven't considered it today, but we also haven't ruled it out.
A: We haven't considered it today, but we also haven't ruled it out.
And that's the end of the 5:30 stand up with our Prime Minister, Director-General of Health, and Finance Minister.
Summary is:
- 12 more days at current levels, which sees Auckland at Level 3, and the rest of Aotearoa at Level 2 until midnight on Wednesday the 26th of August.
Summary is:
- 12 more days at current levels, which sees Auckland at Level 3, and the rest of Aotearoa at Level 2 until midnight on Wednesday the 26th of August.
- Cabinet has made a decision to extend the wage subsidy for 2 more weeks. Information due on Monday.
- No decision has been made about moving the election, it will be made by Monday and announced then
- Keep on being an excellent team of 5 million, we got this.
/end
- No decision has been made about moving the election, it will be made by Monday and announced then
- Keep on being an excellent team of 5 million, we got this.
/end
Standing by for today's 1pm presser.
There's a mildly disconcerting lack of journalists and laptops in shot, so I guess we'll be a bit late going up.
There's a mildly disconcerting lack of journalists and laptops in shot, so I guess we'll be a bit late going up.
There are 7 confirmed new cases, all in the community.
6 of the new cases are already linked to the previous clusters.
1 remains under investigation.
The one from yesterday is also still under investigation, although there's confidence that both will be linked to the cluster
6 of the new cases are already linked to the previous clusters.
1 remains under investigation.
The one from yesterday is also still under investigation, although there's confidence that both will be linked to the cluster
Our total cases sit at 56.
There are 37 in the community.
19 in managed isolation.
There are 37 in the community.
19 in managed isolation.
Our goal line to be considered good contact tracing is that 80% of close contacts are engaged within a 48 hour time period.
We're currently hitting 86% of close contacts being contacted within the 48 hours after being identified.
Nice work contract tracers! <3
We're currently hitting 86% of close contacts being contacted within the 48 hours after being identified.
Nice work contract tracers! <3
With the Auckland border effectively being closed, there is now an exemption process in place for those who need it.
About 100 applications have been received, all have been acknowledged, and 45 have been granted to date.
About 100 applications have been received, all have been acknowledged, and 45 have been granted to date.
Points from both Dr Bloomfield and Minister Hipkins that online bullying and attacks against people who have Covid-19 is absolutely shit.
The last thing we want are people being afraid of being tested due to the stigma, because that's how you get a massive outbreak.
The last thing we want are people being afraid of being tested due to the stigma, because that's how you get a massive outbreak.
The 37 cases that have returned positive represents only 0.07% of all tests undertaken, which indicate a contained outbreak.
All of the results have been tied back to the original cases, or are close to doing so.
And that's great.
All of the results have been tied back to the original cases, or are close to doing so.
And that's great.
The volume of testing that we're seeing means that tests may take up to 48 hours to be processed at the labs, and then the reporting process can begin.
But, considering we've managed to ramp up to (I think?) 20,000 tests a day AND are using the capacity, it's excellent.
But, considering we've managed to ramp up to (I think?) 20,000 tests a day AND are using the capacity, it's excellent.
My note -
Seriously. Much kudos to our excellent lab workers, tireless Healthcare teams, and our Contract Tracers.
You're our goddamn backbone here <3
Seriously. Much kudos to our excellent lab workers, tireless Healthcare teams, and our Contract Tracers.
You're our goddamn backbone here <3
Onto Q&A time.
As ever - I'll filter for new, interesting, and important questions and responses
As ever - I'll filter for new, interesting, and important questions and responses
Q: Are you miffed that workers at the Jet Park aren't getting tested as swiftly & comprehensively as desired?
A: Actually, we're pretty confident that we're all over it. Workers are being tested out in the community, as well as onsite, and we've been assured that it's happening
A: Actually, we're pretty confident that we're all over it. Workers are being tested out in the community, as well as onsite, and we've been assured that it's happening
Q: Did you know that there was a fire alarm pulled at the Jet Park this morning, and that there's rumours people were mixing.
A: That's the first I've heard of it, so we'll follow that up. But we do have protocol in place for managing that scenario.
A: That's the first I've heard of it, so we'll follow that up. But we do have protocol in place for managing that scenario.
Q: We've heard the person in hospital is a healthcare worker, can you please speak to this?
A: The person in hospital is a GP from Mt Wellington. He was not symptomatic when he was last practising there, and all close contacts have been contacted.
A: The person in hospital is a GP from Mt Wellington. He was not symptomatic when he was last practising there, and all close contacts have been contacted.
Q: There's accusations of racism in light of people being moved into managed isolation, instead of being able to isolate at home.
A: It isn't a racist move, it's a universal one. We're working to support families, rather than have ongoing infection within households.
A: It isn't a racist move, it's a universal one. We're working to support families, rather than have ongoing infection within households.
Q: There are photos of people around Auckland at beaches, are you concerned that people's attitudes are more lax this time around.
A: Can everyone around NZ please follow the rules?
We're trying to get back to normal as quickly as we possibly can, & people are relying on you.
A: Can everyone around NZ please follow the rules?
We're trying to get back to normal as quickly as we possibly can, & people are relying on you.
Q: What's being done for the students who are having their education interrupted, again?
A: We're working with MoE to support students, which has included moving dates and distribution of education packs. We're looking into what we need to do to support practical subjects.
A: We're working with MoE to support students, which has included moving dates and distribution of education packs. We're looking into what we need to do to support practical subjects.
Q: Have we traced any contacts of the current cluster to places that we need to be concerned about?
A: We've been open about all the places that we believe are high risk, and will continue to be open with these as they arise. So no, not currently.
A: We've been open about all the places that we believe are high risk, and will continue to be open with these as they arise. So no, not currently.
Q: How do you apply for an exemption and what are they for?
A: The forms for applying to an exemption are on the Covid-19 website.
Exemptions are for shared care, or needing to go into Auckland to look after a relative; to attend a funeral or tangi; and other such things.
A: The forms for applying to an exemption are on the Covid-19 website.
Exemptions are for shared care, or needing to go into Auckland to look after a relative; to attend a funeral or tangi; and other such things.
Q: You've said this is a new strain. Does it manifest any differently? What do people need to know?
A: This is a strain that's been around for a while. There's nothing about this that indicates that it's more or less infection, or that symptoms will be different.
A: This is a strain that's been around for a while. There's nothing about this that indicates that it's more or less infection, or that symptoms will be different.
Q: The rumour mill is rife, and it is particularly ferocious leading up to these 1pm stand ups. Have you considered making multiple announcements, or drip feeding information out?
A: We need time to trace, verify, and consider the information that we're collating...
A: We need time to trace, verify, and consider the information that we're collating...
... Putting out there that we have positive tests, with no indication of how they link in, would cause a massive panic and would result in even more rumour mills.
We will continue to do a 1pm stand up, it will be the source of information, and maybe stop spreading rumours.
We will continue to do a 1pm stand up, it will be the source of information, and maybe stop spreading rumours.
That's the end of today's presser.
Summary!
- 7 new cases, for a total of 37 community cases.
- 35 are definitely part of the cluster, with the last 2 being traced but are likely to be as well.
- Our contact tracing, swabbers, & labs are all exceeding expectations. Nice!
Summary!
- 7 new cases, for a total of 37 community cases.
- 35 are definitely part of the cluster, with the last 2 being traced but are likely to be as well.
- Our contact tracing, swabbers, & labs are all exceeding expectations. Nice!
- Be kind to people who are sick, it's not their fault.
- Follow health guidelines. If you're meant to be playing Go Home, Stay Home, fucking do it.
- Travel exemptions are available if you need to travel in or out of Auckland.
- Stop spreading rumours, it's not helpful
/end
- Follow health guidelines. If you're meant to be playing Go Home, Stay Home, fucking do it.
- Travel exemptions are available if you need to travel in or out of Auckland.
- Stop spreading rumours, it's not helpful
/end
Addendum.
There was a call from a Journo today for Dr Bloomfield to resign his position, and for Hipkins to apologise for his mismanagement that's allowed for this community transmission.
I was too busy yelling at the TV to type anything sensible but, frankly - Get. Fucked.
There was a call from a Journo today for Dr Bloomfield to resign his position, and for Hipkins to apologise for his mismanagement that's allowed for this community transmission.
I was too busy yelling at the TV to type anything sensible but, frankly - Get. Fucked.
We've seen internationally that resurgences are inevitable.
Bloomfield and Hipkins have absolutely done their jobs, by creating resurgence management plans & protocol. By reviewing what we did last time that did & didn't work. By keeping the public pretty up with the play.
Bloomfield and Hipkins have absolutely done their jobs, by creating resurgence management plans & protocol. By reviewing what we did last time that did & didn't work. By keeping the public pretty up with the play.
I know that we were hopeful that we would be the golden child and beat the odds.
And frankly, we already have.
We've done it once, we'll do it again.
But starting shit with the people who have bust their asses to keep us safe is misplaced anger & is bullshit.
And frankly, we already have.
We've done it once, we'll do it again.
But starting shit with the people who have bust their asses to keep us safe is misplaced anger & is bullshit.
I'll back both Bloomfield and Hipkins for their pushback against the journos who made those statements.
They might not be perfect.
But they're a damn sight better than any of our comparable countries & compadres.
And I'll fight you if you want.
They might not be perfect.
But they're a damn sight better than any of our comparable countries & compadres.
And I'll fight you if you want.
Apparently the repetition of Be Kind was needed, because so many more people are being dicks this time around.
Aotearoa.
Be Kind.
Be Generous.
Stay home if you can.
Be Kind.
Mask up.
Be Kind.
Wash your goddamn hands.
Aotearoa.
Be Kind.
Be Generous.
Stay home if you can.
Be Kind.
Mask up.
Be Kind.
Wash your goddamn hands.
Stay local.
Stay safe.
Sorry no slides
https://twitter.com/phil_goff/status/1294505669828079617?s=21 https://twitter.com/phil_goff/status/1294505669828079617
Stay safe.
Sorry no slides
https://twitter.com/phil_goff/status/1294505669828079617?s=21 https://twitter.com/phil_goff/status/1294505669828079617
Standing by for today's 1pm presser with a cute lead in from RNZ with Read My Mind by The Killers.
Brings back a few road trips worth of memories.
Brings back a few road trips worth of memories.
