New Zealand declared a state of national emergency and elevated the COVID-19 threat level to 4, giving the government additional powers to enforce a nationwide lockdown.
From midnight Wednesday, everyone except those deemed to work in essential services will be required to stay at home. People can go outside with household members but must observe a two-meter distance from anyone else to curb the spread of coronavirus.
Level 4 means a full Lockdown of New Zealand, with all non-essential businesses being asked to close. All essential business (such as BDP) have been requested to enact full Business Continuity Plans (BCP) and implement alternative work arrangements for staff.
This period is expected to last a minimum of 4 weeks. The transport of goods, as well as ancillary activities such as border clearance, are classified as essential services in New Zealand, and remain operational.
BDP NZ and our services remain unchanged during this time. New Zealand port
companies, New Zealand Customs Service, Ministry for Primary Industries (Biosecurity) and other border agencies also remain operational. While we anticipate there may be delays experienced due to split shift working requirements and
reduced vehicle capacities (mainly within the domestic transport & port operations sector), coupled with priority being given to the movement of food & medicinal goods, we are not expecting any impedance to the movement of your cargo.
Sources: Bloomberg, BDP New Zealand
Our teams will continue to monitor the situation and keep you apprised of any updates.
Should you have any specific questions or concerns, please reach out to your local BDP representative.
