Large gatherings are set to be restricted by Government, the Prime Minister announcement today.
"Today, Cabinet agreed gatherings of 500 or more people held outdoors or indoors, should be cancelled."
Jacinda Ardern said this included all non-essential events such as festivals, fairs, sporting games and religious and cultural events.
"I know this decision is hugely disappointing... but we are making this decision in the best interests of New Zealanders."
It includes all non-essential events with more than 500 people attending, but doesn’t including schools and universities at this stage. (Source: Other)
She said the move would capture the "bulk" of events in the next few weeks. More guidance will be announced later this week for other events.
There are 107 upcoming events with more than 1000 expected attendees that will be impacted by the announcement.
"There are hard calls we’re having to make for the long term and in the best interest for everyone."
No new cases were confirmed for the third consecutive day in New Zealand, but it hasn’t calmed nerves. (Source: Other)
Ms Ardern said schools and universities were excluded, but the Ministry of Education would be looking at how to reduce gatherings.
Ms Ardern also said preliminary advice from the Treasury was that the economic impact of coronavirus could be greater than the impact of the Great Financial Crisis.
Jacinda Ardern said, however, that the Ministry of Health's advice on other mass gatherings "has not changed". (Source: Other)
Events around the country have already been cancelled or postponed due to the virus, including the March 15 terrorist attack service, the Pasifika Festival, and numerous sporting games and concerts.
On Saturday, the Government placed a two-week self-isolation rule on every traveller entering New Zealand, apart from the Pacific Islands.
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