Automotive trade can resume with caution under level 2

Businesses such as vehicle dealerships can resume trading under COVID-19 alert level 2 restrictions – but in a “safe” manner.

Social distancing (up to two metres), hygiene and contact tracing procedures must be followed under the “play it safe” level 2 conditions outlined by prime minister Jacinda Ardern.

That will allow vehicle yards and showrooms to reopen and test drives to resume so long as requirements are met, including contact-less measures.

Ardern says in circumstances where two metre distancing is impossible then smaller distances are allowed so long as the appropriate safety steps are followed.

Just when level 2 will apply should be known on May 11, with Ardern warning that level 3 restrictions must still be followed until the new level is introduced, probably with 48-hours’ notice.

Under level 2 businesses can restart for staff and customers – subject to conditions, bubbles can ease, domestic travel resume, public places reopen and the hospitality industry return provided venues can adopt the three ‘s’ system of seating, separation and single-server.

Gatherings both indoor and out are restricted to a maximum 100 people (previously 500 outdoors) as Ardern says “Covid loves a congregation”, which means conferences, trade shows and the like are still out.

“There is a much higher level of individual responsibly required at level 2 to prevent the spread of the virus,” Ardern says.

“Even though the economy will be significantly opened up we still need everyone to remain vigilant and continue to act like you and those around you have the virus.”

Visit covid19.govt.nz for more information.