Wairoa District Council facilities have reopened in line with the commencement of Alert Level 2, but safety will remain a priority.

Council chief executive Steven May said staff and customers are looking forward to the gradual re-opening of services but urged everyone to be patient as there are strict hygiene rules that are essential under Level 2.

“Social distancing protocols will be followed with signage and barriers to facilitate this. Customers will be served one at a time and sign-in measures for contact tracing will be in place.”

While Council services will be operating at full capacity staff who can work remotely from home will do so and there will be a staged return to work in conjunction with Council’s Health and Safety policy.

Mr May said this approach will ensure unnecessary congestion in office areas and communal areas.

People wanting to engage with Council services are encouraged to conduct as much business as possible online and via Council’s website and by telephone or email so, if necessary, appointments can be arranged.

“We will endeavour to attend to customers in person, but the process will be slower than usual while the safety requirements are followed.”

There will be no Council or Committee meetings in the Chambers during Alert Level 2 with meetings to be held remotely or in larger areas to ensure social distancing.

Council’s main administration office will be open to the public, with the Customer Services team handling all phone and frontline inquiries.

Other Council facilities that reopening include the i-Site, reserves and cemeteries, public toilets, freedom camping sites, playgrounds and the skate park, again all under Level 2 requirements.

Rubbish and recycling collection will continue as normal.

The Gaiety Theatre has reopened under Level 2 operating distance spacing in the movie theatre. In line with the rest of the country accessibility to movies and movie distributors not releasing films could see a diversified entertainment approach being offered.

The Library will deliver a contactless on and off site click-and-collect- and return service from Monday (18 May). This will be available Monday – Friday 10am – 4pm. 

People will be able to place book orders and collect them from the library front door and books can be returned through the afterhours slot. A delivery and pick up service will be in place for people who are unable to visit the library. Home deliveries and pickups will likely happen between 4pm – 5pm weekdays. For all Library inquiries, phone (06) 838 8450 or email library@wairoadc.govt.nz 

The Community Centre will open on Monday May 18 under Level 2 restrictions. Check out the Wairoa Community Centre Facebook page for updates.

Mr May said the safety of everyone is paramount.

“Please be kind and cooperate with the instructions given to you by Council staff. Their instructions will ensure that we all remain as safe as possible.”

Mr May said he is looking forward to welcoming people back to Council’s facilities, but reminded people if you are feeling unwell, please hold off any visits until your symptoms clear.

For all inquiries, phone (06) 838 7309, email info@wairoadc.govt.nz or visit our website www.wairoadc.govt.nz

15 May 2020

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