COVID-19: Alert Level 2 & 3 update

Following the Prime Minister's announcement on the 14th of August 2020, find out more about the extension of Alert Levels 2 and 3.

The Prime Minister announced this evening an update to COVID-19 alert levels:

AUCKLAND REGION: Extension of Alert Level 3 until 11:59pm Wednesday 26 August.

REST OF NZ: Extension of Alert Level 2 until 11:59pm Wednesday 26 August.

For more information about the announcement, visit the COVID-19 website(external link)

Construction businesses can continue working under Alert Levels 2 & 3 - however they must follow health and safety protocols and guidance. Health and safety protocols at the current alert level.(external link)

Health and safety is incredibly important to stop the spread of COVID-19. It's very important for contractors, subbies and everyone who is permitted on and around sites to understand and work to these protocols.

We are pleased to note there has been a seamless transition over the last 48 hours since Auckland moved to Alert Level 3.

The protocols are a ‘living document’ and will be updated as best practice develops and we receive further industry feedback. More information on where to get help with the protocols and how to provide feedback can be found on the CHASNZ website. Health and safety protocols at the current alert level.(external link)

For more information about the building and construction industry during Alert Levels 1-4, please visit the building.govt.nz website. COVID-19 building and construction sector guidance.(external link)

You can also email info@building.govt.nz for any questions or concerns.

The Accord is working across industry and with sector membership organisations to support the sector through the COVID-19 alert levels, including addressing some of the emerging issues the sector has told us about.

Inter-regional travel

Construction activity is able to be maintained under Alert Levels 2 & 3 when applying the relevant health and safety protocols. Given the differing alert levels across Auckland and the rest of New Zealand, travel into, out of, and through Auckland is heavily restricted while the city is at Alert Level 3.

You can only travel if you are returning to your primary residence - not to a bach or holiday home.

This means you should not be travelling into, out of, or through Auckland for construction work or business purposes.

Those who wish to request an exemption should contact Ministry of Health at: Covid-19policyresponse@health.govt.nz

Wage Subsidy

The wage subsidy(external link) will be extended to all New Zealand businesses. This will cover the time period of the Alert Level 2&3 restrictions.

Mental health and wellbeing

We understand this a stressful time for many people - please visit the Mates in Construction website for more information and support or call the national Telehealth Service on 1737.

Mates helping mates(external link)