Hello from my home office 24/8/21
It’s a worrying time for us all, as we return to Level 4 lockdown for the first time in over a year. The daily routines of managing work and childcare from home, the daily update at 1pm and walks around the neighbourhood are somewhat familiar by now, but I know this will be a very difficult time for many in the community, and that the lockdown affects everyone in different ways. Business owners in particular are still recovering from the serious setbacks of 2020. If you are aware of anyone who needs help or support during this lockdown, please reach out. There are many community groups offering assistance, and I’m happy to help co-ordinate if needed. Remember to virtually check in with friends, family, and neighbours to make sure everyone is doing okay.
Face coverings are now mandatory at all businesses and services still open at Level 4. This includes supermarkets, pharmacies and petrol stations. Everyone is encouraged to wear a mask whenever leaving their home, but it is not mandatory to wear a mask when you are outside, so long as you keep your distance and at no stage come within 2 metres of any other bubble. Take one with you anyway, just in case! This new variant spreads so quickly, it’s really important that we’re all extra cautious out there.
Remember to keep checking the Ministry of Health website for updates on locations of interest. Sadly our ward currently has identified sites in Remuera, Newmarket, Mission Bay and St Heliers. Due to the nature of the Delta strain and how infectious it is, we know these locations will continue to grow along with those who will be required to self-isolate and get tested. Remember that you are only required to get a test if you were at a location of interest at the time and date specified, if you have been classified as a close contact, or if you have cold and flu symptoms.
On the subject of testing, I want to acknowledge the huge efforts of the many health professionals working long hours to process tests. Let’s continue to be patient and kind towards those staff that are integral to the fight against Covid-19.
I understand how tempting our many wonderful Ōrākei neighbourhood playgrounds and park facilities are. However, if we are to beat this, we need to resist the temptation and work together to stop the spread. Staff have taped off our most popular playgrounds, but sadly we are already seeing some of our taping destroyed. So please, even if you can’t see a closed sign on the equipment, stay clear of all playground equipment, basketball courts, pump tracks, skate parks, and park benches. These are the rules set by the Ministry of Health. Dog rules also change under Level 4 restrictions. All dogs should be kept on a leash, including when exercising in off-leash areas. This reduces the risk of coming into close contact with someone else, or with other dogs.
As you will have heard, libraries are closed under Level 4. If you have library books at home, hold on to them for now and return them when libraries re-open. I know the library is important for many in our community, particularly at this unsettling time, so don’t forget we have an extensive online collection available through our library website.
Finally, whilst our lockdown is frustrating for many, we have done it before, and if we want to get out of Level 4 as quickly as possible, we need to work together and do it again. So please, stay in your bubble and stay local. I am always available if needed, 021 971 786 or desley.simpson@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Desley