Covid-19: Auckland set to move into traffic light system on November 29

Monday, 8 November 2021

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says Auckland will most likely move to the new Covid-19 framework, with a decision due on November 29.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has announced Auckland could move to the new traffic light system of Covid restrictions on November 29.

Ardern announced the date at a post-Cabinet press conference today, basing the decision off the Ministry of Health’s vaccination rates.

November 29 represents three weeks from when Auckland will have had the opportunity for first doses to turn into second doses – a key factor why Cabinet thinks the region should be able to enter the new system.

“Cabinet has a check-in on November 29, and based on cabinet's discussion today there is a strong expectation that Auckland will move into the Covid-19 protection framework, following this November 29 check in,” said Ardern.

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The Prime Minister has announced November 29 as the provisional date Auckland will move into the new traffic light system of Covid-19 restrictions.

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Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said that based on Cabinet's discussion on Monday, there is a “strong expectation” that Auckland will move into the traffic lights system following a November 29 review.

“This is based on all 3 DHBs [District Health Boards] having reached 90 per cent first doses already. And [the date] representing three weeks following the first dose milestone, allowing time for that 90 per cent to be fully vaccinated.”

The Covid-19 protection framework is laid out in three stages: red, orange and green. Auckland will move to red once the district has reached the vaccination target.

Red will see city-wide restrictions lifted for those with vaccination certificates – schools, early childhood centres and businesses will remain open, but with some public health measures in place. Hospitality and events operating with certificates would be allowed to increase to 100 people.

For businesses and event venues which choose not to opt into the vaccine certificate scheme, the restrictions will remain similar to that of level 3.

Ardern said the framework will provide certainty and safety for Auckland.

“It will mean all businesses can be open and operate, it means we can manage cases as safely as possible, but differently,” said Ardern.

According to Stuff: Whole Truth projections, Auckland DHB will hit 90 per cent full vaccination on November 18. Waitematā will reach double-jab on November 26.

Counties Manukau, however is not projected to hit 90 per cent full vaccination until December 5.