New Zealand is currently in lockdown as we fight Covid-19. The goal of this lockdown is to contain the virus and limit the number of people who become sick.
The Government has advised that only essential work can happen right now. Essential work is carried out by businesses that provide for the necessities of life. This means things like food, medicine, healthcare, energy, fuel, waste-removal, internet and financial support will continue to be available.
Many engineers work in essential businesses. These engineers will be carrying out their day-to-day activities, with precautions, throughout the Government’s lockdown.
For a full list of essential businesses, see the Government’s Covid-19 website. On Tuesday 1 April 2020, the Government provided further clarification on those businesses that are, and are not, essential.
Read about essential businesses in the building and construction sector
If you are unsure whether your business is considered essential, or want clarification if any of your staff are involved in providing essential services that may require field work or site visits, email essential@mbie.govt.nz or call 0800 22 66 57 (8am to 8pm, Monday-Friday).
What’s next?
The lockdown is having a significant impact on jobs and on the economy. The Government has acknowledged this and, in the interim, put together considerable support packages for businesses whose revenue is significantly affected.
Find out more about financial support
The Government is also looking at opportunities to ensure important work, such as work on infrastructure projects, can resume as quickly, and safely, as possible.
