State of national emergency extended to April 21

The state of national emergency to support the COVID-19 response is extended a third time – to April 21.

The initial declaration was made on March 25, and the seven-day declaration can be extended as many times as necessary, without changing the length of the alert level four lockdown.

It’s expected the government will provide alert level three detail on April 16 and announce on April 20 the next steps toward moving out of the national lockdown.

Further help for businesses is also likely to be revealed.

“On the advice of the director of Civil Defence Emergency Management and after consultation with the prime minister, I consider the state of national emergency should remain in place to support the COVID-19 response,” Civil Defence minister Peeni Henare says.

“While the recent COVID-19 case numbers have shown that we are turning a corner, it is essential that we continue to have the powers activated by the state of national emergency available to maintain the level four restrictions and ensure we do not squander New Zealanders’ good work.”

It allows civil defence emergency management professionals to carry out critical work, including managing roads, traffic and public places; providing first aid, food, shelter and accommodation.

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