Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has announced that all hospitality venues will be shut down in order to try and stop the spread of Coronavirus.
Ardern made the announcement in a press conference on Monday, March 23, moving New Zealand’s COVID-19 alert level to three, then after 48 hours the country will move to level four for at least four weeks in order to “break the chain” of community transmission.
The Prime Minister stated that all non-essential business in New Zealand must close – including bars, cafes, restaurants and cinemas, and takeaway shops.
“I do not underestimate what I’m asking New Zealanders to do, I know it’s huge,” she said.
She confirmed supermarkets, doctors, pharmacies, service stations, access to essential banking services will be available throughout New Zealand at every alert level.
“As a government, we will do everything in our power to protect you,” said Ardern.
