Large-scale easing of restrictions in New Zealand possible from May 11

WELLINGTON, May 7, 2020, SMH. New Zealand said on Thursday that retail, domestic travel and local sport could resume if social restrictions are eased next week, as the country prepares to end months of economic disruptions due to the coronavirus, The Sydney Morning Herald reported.

The Pacific nation was locked down for over a month under level-four restrictions that were eased by a notch, to level three, on April 28, but continued to enforce strict social measures.

There have been just three new cases of COVID-19 this week.

However, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern warned that it was unlikely every single case had been identified and asked citizens to maintain social distancing and hygiene even if the country lowered its alert level to two.

“Level two has been designed to get as many people back to work as possible and the economy back and running in the safest way possible,” she said at a news conference.

“We can keep it in check and remain on our path for elimination.”

A decision on whether to lower restrictions will be made on Monday.

Ardern said the country’s borders would remain closed under level two except for returning New Zealanders. Gatherings would be limited to 100 people so while sporting events could resume, fans won’t be able to go to stadiums.

Children could return to schools and early learning centres while staff could return to offices, Ardern said. Hairdressers would be also be allowed to reopen.