A COVID-19 Message From Mayor Alex Walker

Kia Ora Central Hawke’s Bay,

By now, you will all have caught up on the big news, that New Zealand is once again diving with great uncertainty into a Level 4 lockdown. It has certainly made me reflect on how lucky we are and how much freedom we have been granted over the past few months.

For many, including our local business owners, it’s a time we hoped would not come but has never been far from our minds.

The Prime Minister has indicated that for at least the next three days, every New Zealander, aside from those who provide an essential service, must stay home and stick to their bubble. This means stopping all interactions with others outside of your household.

If you are stepping out to the supermarket or need to visit another essential service, please remember to wear a face mask.

As we already know, it can be a difficult and lonely time, particularly for the most vulnerable members of our community – those who live alone or in isolation –so please remember how we reached out with kindness last year and give your neighbours a quick call to check in!

That goes for supporting members of our farming community, who carry on as usual during these very unusual and uncertain times.

To look after ourselves we need to think about both our physical and mental wellbeing as we deal with the stress, isolation and uncertainty. So if you are well, make sure you do get out for a short walk and enjoy your neighbourhood – but don’t forget to keep a two metre distance from others at all times.  

Even in a short, sharp lockdown response, the shock is still very real. But if there’s anything I am sure of from past experience, it’s that Central Hawke’s Bay is strong and supportive community that will look after one other to get through this.

Call your neighbours, your family and friends that live alone, and good luck to our incredible essential workers.

Let's look after each other Central Hawke’s Bay,

Kia Kaha,

Mayor Alex

23 August 2021

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