New Zealand Government announces four-stage alert system for Covid-19 response

Update on coronavirus/Covid-19 in New Zealand: Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern addressed New Zealanders in a direct broadcast at midday today, Saturday 21 March, on the next steps the Government is taking in the public health response to the pandemic. Please note:

1. The Government is introducing a 4-stage alert system, and has placed New Zealand on Level 2.
2. New Zealanders aged 70 and over and those with certain medical conditions are asked to stay home to reduce the risk of contact with the virus.
3. Workplaces should implement plans to reduce people to people contact, including working from home where possible.
4. New Zealanders should limit all non-essential domestic travel.

Today the number of people with coronavirus/Covid-19 is recorded at 52. All but two have confirmed links to overseas travel. There will be more such cases as New Zealanders continue to travel home. See this link for information on all the new cases in NZ Herald.

Here is a link to Jacinda Ardern's statement: the video is 8 minutes and 34 seconds long and is worth watching:  Newshub

If you are a New Zealander abroad, here is the link where you should register: https://register.safetravel.govt.nz/login

And here again is the link to the official NZGovernment website with up to date information on coronavirus/Covid-19.

We can limit the impact of this virus if we all work together. Let's support each other and all our essential services staff, including all those involved in keeping our food stores and pharmacies open. Please rely on the official government advice which is well communicated and on quality news sources as a lot of misinformation can circulate. Above all, please stay as safe as you can!