April 13, 2022
Orange Covid relief for Easter break


Fire up the hot cross buns.
Aotearoa is moving to Orange on the Covid response framework in time for Easter and the school holidays.
Covid Response Minister Chris Hipkins says the Omicron response has been effectively managed at Red, and a sustained reduction in cases and hospitalisations allows the shift at midnight.
Under Orange there are no indoor capacity limits and the seated and separated rule for hospitality venues lifts, so bars, cafes and restaurants are able to fill up again.
He says it’s still important to wear a face mask in many indoor settings, as it’s the best defence to Covid-19 after being vaccinated and having a booster.