National Summary

The following links provide up to date information.
Updated Information about confirmed and probable cases of COVID-19 in New Zealand.
Detailed interactive map to track the spread.

What you need to know:

• Anne Guenole has become the first New Zealander to die from coronavirus. She died at Grey Base Hospital, Greymouth on Sunday morning.
• The worldwide death toll from the pandemic has now topped 32,000. A United States expert believes it could kill 100,000 to 200,000 people in that country alone.
• Johns Hopkins University has reported more than 685,000 cases worldwide, with the US recording the highest number - World Health Organisation has 103,221 cases there while Johns Hopkins records 125,313.
• Scientists believe at least eight strains of coronavirus are currently making their way around the world.
• Testing facilities are located around the country, and more than 12,000 tests have been completed so far. 
• Overseas travel is still the main driver of new infections, but there's evidence of some community transmission.
• New data being collected breaks the total number of cases down by ethnicity. As a result, it has been found that 27 (4.5%) cases are Māori.

• $2.7b of wage subsidy has already been paid out for over 428,000 workers. The sick leave scheme is being folded into wage subsidy scheme to prevent "double dipping", the Finance Minister said.
• Employers are required to keep people in employment if taking the subsidy.
• A $27m package going to social service charities was announced on Thursday.
• Pharmacies are limiting prescriptions to one month. Three months oral contraceptive prescriptions can be filled.
• There's a rent increase freeze in place and landlords can't terminate tenancies without reasonable cause.       

• The Government is already looking at life and the economy post-lockdown.
• Kiwis flying in who show symptoms will be quarantined at a specialised facility, most likely a hotel. Refusal to self-isolate will result in forceful quarantine or fines. 
• PM Jacinda Ardern said the border is an ongoing risk. 
• The PM said not all Kiwis abroad will be able to get home and they're being advised to stay put.
• Police have more power at this time. They can enter people's homes to check for gatherings, if required. If people are refusing to self-isolate, they could be charged with obstructing police.
• You can still go outside to get fresh air, but you must keep it local.
• The Government has set up an email address for people to report alleged price increasing from super markets during the lockdown - it is pricewatch@mbie.govt.nz. 
• Anyone struggling with lockdown is advised to call or text 1737 to discuss any mental health issues.

• This website links all the information from across government on COVID-19 including travel and financial support information. There is advice for our community groups, travellers and businesses.
• Visit the Ministry of Health Website for further Information https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/covid-19-novel-coronavirus

• The Tui Ora Family Health COVID19 testing site function has now moved to the community testing and treatment stations set up by Taranaki District Health in Taranaki Base Hospital (Old St Johns Ambulance Base, Lorna Street entrance, Westown, New Plymouth. Further designated sites are in Waitara, ōpunake and Te Hawera. For further site information click here for more details,

• The distribution of hygiene packs to whānau will take place from 7 April. Distribution will be managed by Police as part of the Civil Defence response.

Flu Vaccinations and Immunisations

· An influenza immunisation programme is available through Tui Ora Family Health Centre during normal business hours for registered patients. However, over-65s and pregnant women will also be accepted on a casual basis.

· Please make contact beforehand 06 759 7310 or email tuiorafamilyhealth@tuiora.co.nz

· We will continue to update you as more information on other options such as mobile clinics becomes available. Please note; these will be prioritised for those most in need, such as: Over-65s, pregnant women and people with chronic conditions eg diabetes.

· Although the flu vaccine will not protect against COVID-19 it is important protection to reduce the burden of influenza, both to keep individuals as healthy as possible through winter and reduce the burden on general practice and hospital services.

• Please don’t worry – you’ll continue to be paid your regular benefit payments.
• MSD has already done a bunch of things to make it easier for now.
• If you’re already getting Jobseeker Support, Sole Parent Support or Supported Living Payment, you don’t need to provide another medical certificate.
• If you’re already getting Disability Allowance and Child Disability Allowance you don’t need to do anything - they will continue to be paid.
• For now, there will be no annual reviews or social housing reviews.
• Special benefits won’t expire.
• There will be no new obligation failures for now.