New Zealand extends state of emergency for 7 days

The Government has extended New Zealand's State of National Emergency for a further seven days as the country's COVID-19 death toll climbs to nine.

The announcement was made via the Civil Defence National Emergency Management Agency's Twitter on Tuesday.

"The State of National Emergency to support the COVID-19 response will be extended a third time, for a further seven days," the agency said. "This extension to the State of National Emergency does not change the length of the alert level 4 lockdown."

In a statement issued on Tuesday afternoon, Civil Defence Minister Peeni Henare said the extension has been declared "to support the COVID-19 response".

"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," Henare said.

"The powers activated by the state of national emergency enable Civil Defence emergency management professionals to carry out critical work during this time, including managing roads, traffic and public places [and] providing first aid, food, shelter and accommodation.

"Use of these powers have included the requisitioning of a carpark so it can be used as a community-based assessment centre, and to support NZ Police to prevent people from doing non-essential activities."

The Government first declared a state of national emergency in response to the COVID-19 crisis on March 25. Although it lasts for just seven days, it can be extended as many times as the Government deems necessary. The declaration provides authorities with increased power to be used "when necessary".

Henare thanked the New Zealanders working to support the COVID-19 response.

Source: Agencies


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