Wairoa Mayor Craig Little supports the Government’s decision to extend the Level 4 lockdown until midnight on Monday April 27.

After that we will drop to Alert Level 3 for a further two-weeks when our situation will be reviewed.

Mr Little acknowledged some people, especially those in business, will be disappointed that we are remaining at Alert Level 4, but he stressed this is necessary to protect lives.

"The key now is to continue to follow the rules so we can all get out of this as soon as possible.

Now is not the time to be complacent. We must strengthen our resolve, and all unite.

We need to continue to look after each other as the Alert Level 4 restrictions continue.

We’ve been doing this for nearly four-weeks, and it is difficult for everyone. But, the only way to get out of this is to keep doing what we’re doing, however difficult it may be.

I would also like to send a message to our small business owners and retailers. You are not alone. There is work being carried out in the background by the Council, local iwi and others to support small business and position our district in the best possible way post-pandemic.”

Mr Little said Wairoa, as part of the Hawke’s Bay Civil Defence Emergency Management Group, has robust systems in place to continue to help people who don’t have any other support networks.

“That includes delivering welfare services to those who most need it as we continue in Alert Level 4.

Wairoa has had three known COVID-19 cases and Hawke’s Bay 41 cases. These cases have not increased over the past few days. This is a great position to be in at this time with 24 people recovered and 17 active cases.

Our district is a great place to live, we are a strong, caring and resilient community.

Regionally, our leaders remain strongly focussed on making sure we’re continuing to provide essential services during these challenging times.

Wherever possible, we urge people to use their existing support networks if you need help – ask your friends or family to drop off groceries, prescriptions and other essential supplies, or use online shopping and pharmacy delivery services.

We need to continue to do what we can to support vulnerable people in our communities and also ensure we are all safely doing what we can to make sure we’re looking after our neighbours.”

For advice and information, there is a wealth of information online at www.covid19.govt.nz, and you can also call the free government helpline on 0800 779 997 (8am to 1am, seven days a week).

20 April 2020

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