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We’ve never experienced an Easter quite like this one before. It will be feeling very different for most people, so let’s all try and be understanding and kind to each other as we all stay home over the holiday.

Can I visit my family over the Easter period?

You might not be able to visit your family physically, but you can meet up in other ways. Remember, it’s important to maintain your family, whānau and community connections at this time.

How can I celebrate if I can’t be with my family?

Stay in touch via video-chat, messaging, emailing and calling each other. Keep an eye on the COVID-19 social channels for tips and ideas over the break. We can still celebrate Easter, whilst reinforcing our communal bonds, we just need to get creative!

Make sure you stay in your existing bubble at all times

Don’t be tempted to join two ‘bubbles’ or households together. That just helps spread the virus. Church and religious celebrations can be enjoyed in other ways, like via streaming.

Staying local over the Easter period

Everyone needs to get exercise, and the kids may be tempted to go out to do Easter egg hunts. It’s important you stay near home to do this – try hiding eggs in your backyard or around the house. If you do leave your house for exercise or supplies, you must keep a 2-metre distance from other people at all times. Don’t stop and chat, even at this time.

Is the Easter Bunny allowed to visit?

Please reassure kids: the Prime Minister has confirmed the Easter Bunny is an essential worker.

Can I use my car over Easter?

Easter is a time for family, but it is not a time to travel. You must stay home. Do not travel out of town, or travel to the bach. Remember: using private vehicles for transport is only allowed if you are: 1) accessing essential services 2) shopping for food or medicine 3) or if you’re an essential worker travelling to, from, or as part of your essential work. You should also only travel in your car with people from your household. Remember, any unnecessary travel may spread COVID-19. This applies over Easter too!

Reducing our alcohol intake

It’s a good idea to try and reduce, rather than increase your units of alcohol. Try meditating, doing something creative, or going out for exercise once a day, nearby, instead. Note that supermarkets will not be selling alcohol on Easter Sunday (12 April).

Will supermarkets be open over Easter weekend?

Trading for essential services is available today and some services may choose to remain open tomorrow, Easter Sunday (12 April). Normal trading for essential services resumes Easter Monday

(13 April).

Where can I seek help if I’m feeling stressed or anxious?

If you feel you are not coping, it is important to seek help and professional support. Your family doctor is a good starting point. For support with grief, anxiety, distress or mental wellbeing, you can also call or text the ‘Need to talk?’ service on 1737.

This is free, and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and gives you the chance to talk with a trained counsellor. If you’re just looking for some extra support, you can go to

Covid19.govt.nz. This includes tips for parents or caregivers who want to discuss mental health and wellbeing issues with primary-school aged children.

Tips and tricks for Easter

If you have the ingredients available, there’s nothing like home cooked hot cross buns to lift the spirits. And it’s a great project to keep the kids entertained, with a yummy treat at the end. Another way to have fun is to hold an Easter movie marathon. Follow the official COVID-19 social channel on Facebook for more ideas.

Who can I contact if I see people not following the rules on self-isolation?

You can tell the Police by completing the online form at

105.police.govt.nz. Where possible, try to keep the phones free for those that need them in an emergency.