Praise for resilient Hawke's Bay community

9 April 2020

The region’s leaders are praising the resilience of Hawke’s Bay’s communities during the COVID-19 lockdown, and promoting a four-step checklist to help people work out their options if they need extra support.

Central Hawke’s Bay Mayor Alex Walker said people are doing a great job of looking after themselves and each other.

But she said it’s important that those who need a bit of extra help know where they can get it.

The four-step checklist was designed to help ensure everyone knows who they can contact for support over the coming weeks and beyond.

“If you or someone you know can’t leave home because of illness or disability, are over 70, unwell, pregnant, or immuno-compromised, and you don’t live with someone who can help you, there are other ways to get essential groceries and medicines while staying safe,” Ms Walker said.

Firstly, is there a trusted friend, family member or neighbour who can help?

Hastings Mayor Sandra Hazelhurst suggested: “Can your buddy shop for essential groceries or medicines for you and drop them off on your doorstep?

“If so, ask them if they can shop for you.”

Secondly, if someone has internet access or a phone, and a debit or credit card, can they order their essentials remotely and have them delivered?

Hawke’s Bay Regional Council Chair Rex Graham said most supermarkets and pharmacies have these options.

“If you have the internet or a phone but don’t know how to work the system, call one of your tech-savvy friends or grandchildren and they can talk you through the process,” he said.

Thirdly, is there a support network that could help?

Wairoa Mayor Craig Little said groups like Age Concern, church or youth groups, Iwi support networks or the Red Cross may be able to help.

“Check whether your organisation has members who have offered to help people get groceries and medicines,” he said.

Finally, if someone does not have a support network that can help, the Hawke’s Bay Civil Defence Emergency Management Group has an emergency contact number for welfare needs in Hawke’s Bay.

Napier Mayor Kirsten Wise said the group could help with essential groceries and medicines.

“If you need that extra bit of help, do call us,” she said.

“We are asking people to use their own networks first, but we realise that is not always possible.

“If you’re stuck, phone 0800 HBAYCD (0800 422 923) – but please do bear in mind that due to demand, it may take at least a couple of days for us to get you the help you need.”

• - The Hawke’s Bay Civil Defence Emergency Management Group’s telephone number 0800 HBAYCD (0800 422 923) is for people to call if they need urgent support in Hawke’s Bay.
• - For advice on the services your council is providing during COVID-19 see your council’s website or phone your council’s customer service centre.
• - For assistance with government agencies and services, freephone: 0800 779 997
• - For health assistance phone your GP or Healthline, freephone: 0800 358 5453
• - For accurate up-to-date information on COVID-19, see covid19.govt.nz

9 April 2020

Back to News