From 11.59pm on 17 August, the whole of New Zealand moved to Alert Level 4 after a positive case of the Covid-19 Delta variant was found in Auckland on Tuesday. Both Auckland and Coromandel will be in lockdown for seven days and the rest of the country for at least three days.
Summerfruit NZ is closely monitoring these developments and is working with the Government to understand what effects this will have on the summerfruit industry.
The Ministry for Primary Industries has advised us that the horticulture industry is to continue to operate as it did during the last nationwide, Level 4 Lockdown, at least until further notice as follows:
- Primary industries (food and beverage production for both domestic consumption or export, plus the relevant support services) and veterinary and animal health and welfare services. It also includes businesses transporting freight.
- Businesses must operate safely and meet Covid-19 requirements.
Employers are required to provide their employees with a letter to permit them to travel during Alert Level 4.
- Click here for the essential services travel letter template.
Please note that this advice could change at short notice as the situation evolves. We are committed to updating you with any changes or developments, and if any additional protocols may be required, through this website and via Prunings newsletter.
Please continue to follow Covid protocols established last year. Please remember to:
- use the Covid tracer app
- wear masks in public
- wash hands regularly
- keep socially distant (2m minimum).