We are constantly monitoring official information regarding any spread of the Covid-19 in New Zealand and are considering any risks for our community.
Any new arrivals to New Zealand have been instructed to self-isolate for 2 weeks. While we are unsure on the finer details on how this is to be implemented for travellers who may have booked AirBnB accommodation, campers using the campgrounds or local residents returning from their overseas travels, we need to remain respectful and avoid any unnecessary contact. We are also aware that some at-risk individuals have already chosen to self-isolate. If you need any assistance with anything while in isolation, please call or contact those in the community that may be able to help with groceries or prescriptions. There are also delivery services available through services like Countdown and Zoom Pharmacy.
As of today, we are reducing risk to our camp wardens and practicing safe customer service, use of an iron ranger and online payments at the Boyes Beach and DoC Campgrounds. We are using signs to remind our guests that their shared use of camp facilities will need to take into consideration cleanliness and requesting adherence to the limit on nights that a camper can occupy a site. We are in contact with Rotorua Lakes Council and the Department of Conservation as this situation develops.
Already, local gatherings such as the Lakes Community Board Meeting has been deferred until further notice and sporting events in the area are being cancelled.
www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/covid-19-novel-coronavirus
www.immigration.govt.nz/about-us/media-centre/news-notifications/coronavirus-update-inz-response
During the Level 4 Alert, there will be a few changes to Rubbish Collection services in Ōkareka. If you have wheelie bins your collections will be as usual, as these can be collected by the automated trucks.
However, if you use paper or red plastic bags, due to the health and safety risks to the collectors doing manual collections, your bags will no longer be collected. Instead, you'll need to take them to the 24/7 Drop-off area at the Tarawera Transfer Station.
The 24-hour drop-off area for household rubbish bags and recycling will still be open, but the main Transfer Station itself will remain closed including on Thursdays and Sundays. Please - No dumping of rubbish!
If you are currently using rubbish bags and would like to change to Wheelie Bins you can do so if you are in an area serviced by the larger wheelie bin trucks by contacting Rotorua Lakes Council.
Please also restrain overloading current essential systems with gardening, "spring/autumn" cleaning or DIY project waste.
Any concerns, please get in touch directly with our Chair - Kim, or a known committee member.