Top social scientists say New Zealand’s strong national unity during lockdown – reflected in a proliferation of teddy bears in windows and Anzac Day poppies on front lawns – is now under threat as grim new economic realities and prolonged disruption in personal lives hit home for many. Experts from […]
COVID-19: Support for tertiary students to learn online
Education Minister Chris Hipkins today announced a $20 million fund to help eligible tertiary learners access digital devices and internet connections to continue their study disrupted by COVID-19. “Many programs are being delivered online in response to COVID-19, including courses like carpentry that are traditionally delivered on-the-job. As we rebuild […]
Keep a lookout for child abuse – Child Matters
With some children back at school – and more set to head back when New Zealand eventually moves to Level 2 – teachers, aides and the wider community are urged to keep a close eye on the welfare of children after the COVID-19 lockdown. Child Matters CEO, Jane Searle says […]
Council explores immediate economic relief options
Three months’ rent relief for Council leaseholders, refunds for affected bookings and credit for memberships are some of the measures agreed on by Whakatāne District Council elected members at Council’s 30 April meeting. The Analysis of the Impacts of Covid-19 on Revenue report sought to equip elected members with necessary […]
Oversight of contact tracing strengthened
Minister of Health Dr David Clark has announced a Contact Tracing Assurance Committee (CTAC) to further strengthen oversight around a crucial piece of New Zealand’s response to COVID-19. Dr Clark has announced Sir Brian Roche as inaugural chair of the CTAC, along with members Dr Philip Hill, Warren Moetara, Dr […]
COVID-19: Te Puke workers return negative tests
The final test results from more than 250 people tested for COVID-19 in Te Puke recently have now all returned negative. Dr Joe Bourne, who is in charge of the Bay of Plenty DHB’s Community-Based Health Services response, says it is a pleasing outcome. The final four results follow 261 […]
Bay of Plenty DHB update visiting policy
The Bay of Plenty District Health Board recognizes the important role of visitors in the healing process. With this in mind, we have updated our visitor policy under COVID-19 Alert Level 3, while continuing to protect patients and staff from any potential risk of exposure. Hospital facilities at Tauranga and […]
Government considering commercial rent relief options
The Government is considering options to support New Zealand businesses with rent payments as they face the economic impacts of COVID-19. “While 75 per cent of the economy is up and running again under Level 3, we know many businesses, especially our smaller ones, have been hard hit by a […]