27 January 2022
Tēnā tatou e te whānau
Ko te tumanako kei te noho haumaru koutou katoa, ahakoa ngā aupiki, ngā auheke o te wā.
As we continue to navigate through the Omicron outbreak, we wanted to provide some key updates in regards to the service and support we are able to provide.
We also wanted to share important updates and key changes regarding the RED Traffic Light Protection Framework
The shift to RED came into force at 11:59 Sunday 23 January, since then the Government has introduced changes and a ‘Phased Approach’ to dealing with this outbreak due to the highly transmissible Omicron variant.
The phases of the Government’s planned approach are outlined below
PHASE ONE – Stamp it Out
We are currently in Phase One of the protection framework which will maintain the approach used in previous lockdowns which includes ongoing PCR testing at stations and notifying positive cases and contacts via phone call.
Positive cases and close contacts will be provided additional support but are encouraged to isolate at home.
- Isolation period for positive cases - 14 days
- Isolation period for close contacts - 10 days
PHASE TWO – Slow the Spread
Phase Two will come into place as Omicron continues to spread across communities around the country. The focus and targeted support will shift to the most vulnerable and heavily impacted communities. Rapid Antigen Testing will be introduced as a key detector of the virus. Positive cases and close contacts in the community will be notified via text in most situations and will be required to isolate at home.
- Isolation period for positive cases – 10 days
- Isolation period for close contacts - 7days
PHASE THREE – Living with COVID
The Government has warned the public to expect the number of positive Omicron cases to reach thousands a day. When this occurs, the country will move to Phase Three which will focus on the immune compromised and those who are most vulnerable. Rapid Antigen testing will continue, and positive cases and close contacts will be expected to self-manage with additional support available where required.
- Isolation period for positive cases – 10 days
- Isolation period for close contacts - 7days
IMPORTANT UPDATES UNDER RED – MANDATORY MASK WEARING
-It is now mandatory to wear masks at food and drink businesses, events, and gatherings
-Children are now required to wear masks on public transport and school transport
-All workers in public facing roles must wear 2R or level 2 medical grade masks
While many businesses, will remain operational under the RED framework its important you understand the new requirements and we encourage you and your whānau to get vaccinated or get your booster shot after the four-month waiting period.
Further details on requirements under RED and more detail can be found on the Unite against Covid-19 website.
Ngā Maunga Whakahii o Kaipara Services and Support under RED
Our support and services will continue under the RED framework and our staff will be working remotely.
Our Marae have activated their COVID response teams and are working closely with our communities to provide support where needed.
Food Packages for Whānau in isolation
Whiti Ora o Kaipara Charitable Trust has a limited amount of food packages we are able to provide whānau in home isolation and our team is working hard to increase the support we are able to provide.
We’re anticipating high demand; we ask for understanding and patience if there are delays as this is a difficult time for us all.
Ngā Marae e Rima also has a limited number of food packages available, and beneficiaries can contact their Marae representatives directly or talk to our team who will connect you to the right people.
Community Support for our Whānau
We are encouraging Kaumātua and Kuia to visit the Waimauku Pharmacy Silver Fern if they require a printed version of vaccination certificates.
The pharmacy is also offering walk-in vaccinations and boosters 7 days a week to all members of the community.
For more details, visit their website http://www.waimaukupharmacy.co.nz/
If you have any questions, please contact us for assistance.
PHONE: 0800 695 247922 822 (between 9.00am - 5.00pm Monday to Friday)
EMAIL: admin@kaiparamoana.com
If you are experiencing symptoms, please get tested immediately and visit a medical professional.
