MWCEDM update on moving to Alert Level 3

Following the announcement that those of us below Auckland will be moving to Alert Level 3 at 11.59pm on Tuesday 31 August, Manawatū-Whanganui Civil Defence and Emergency Management (MWCDEM) Group controller Ged Shirley says the Horizons region is currently well resourced to move down a level.

“We are working closely with our four District Health Boards, – MidCentral, Whanganui, Lakes and Waikato – the region’s city and district councils, emergency services, and government agencies such as the Ministry of Social Development. The Ministry of Health is the lead agency for a pandemic response, and our role is to provide regional coordination and support to these groups.
 
“The MWCDEM welfare group is sharing information and escalating any emerging issues - particularly around food and accommodation.
“At Alert Level 3 business can open as long as they do so safely without close contact. This means click and collect, drive through or contactless delivery.
 
“At Alert Level 3 buses are still operating on a reduced timetable and should only be used by essential workers travelling to or from work or if you are accessing an essential service such as pharmacy or supermarket. For up to date timetable information please visit the Horizons website.
 
“The all of Government’s dedicated Unite Against Covid-19 website is the best source for accurate and up-to-date information. It also provides links to key services such as health – including booking a vaccine, mental health, food and essential items, rural support and business and employment advice.
 
“MWCDEM are also sharing national and regional messages on the Civil Defence Manawatū-Whanganui Facebook page.

“Until 11.59pm on Tuesday we are still at Level 4 and once we drop to Level 3 you still need to continue to limit contact as much as possible, stay home and stay in your bubble, get tested if you are unwell or a contact, get vaccinated if you can and support those around you,” Mr Shirley says.

You can find more information at the below websites:

Unite Against Covid website:
https://www.covid19.govt.nz/
 
Manawatū-Whanganui Civil Defence Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/civildefencemanawatuwhanganui/
 
Ministry of Health
https://www.health.govt.nz/