Local business lifeline

As I write this, we are three weeks into Covid-19 Alert Level 2 and, for many of us, weekends are starting to feel distinct from weekdays again.

Going hard and early has put New Zealand in a good position. Now we just need to continue the level of vigilance that got us here. We are still in a pandemic, and cases continue to grow overseas, but many aspects of life in New Zealand can and should feel more normal.

We all want to get our economy moving again safely. Last week the Government eased Alert Level 2 restrictions further, allowing gatherings of up to 100 people. The

Prime Minister also mapped out a possible path to Alert Level 1. Cabinet will review Level 2 settings again on 8th June, and consider a move to Level 1 by 22nd June.

No matter how fast we open up the economy though, there will still be tough times ahead for many. That’s why the Government is investing in jobs and support for businesses to keep Kiwis in work, as well as training to help people shift jobs if needed. We’re also providing extra financial support for New Zealanders who lose their job because of Covid-19.

One way you might be able to help get our economy moving again is by visiting a corner of our beautiful country you’ve never been to before. Tourism New Zealand has launched a new campaign encouraging Kiwis to go somewhere new, and Tourism BOP has its own campaign- No Place Like Home- encouraging Kiwis to come and visit our beautiful area.

Local tourism and hospitality operators made big sacrifices for us during lockdown. Now’s our chance to repay them if we can; with a weekend away that’ll be a welcome adventure for the family and a lifeline for local businesses.

Let’s make the most of the winter weekends ahead and try exploring our own backyard.