New Zealand is working aggressively and pro-actively to end the pandemic-induced lockdowns that have gravely impacted the economy of countries alike. In this direction, the government led by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern set a rather ambitious goal on Friday to bring an end to lockdowns – completely vaccinating 90% of the eligible population.
This comes as PM Ardern is under firing pressure to bring an end to lockdown in Auckland, giving much-needed respite to people living in the largest city of New Zealand who has been under restrictive lockdown for over two months now. Under the new modus operandi, people in Auckland will be able to regain their freedoms once 90 percent of over 12 years old people are fully vaccinated. Other parts of the Asia Pacific country would gain freedoms on a broader scale once they hit the 90 percent vaccination mark. People would be required to use vaccination certificates to gain entry to places like bars, gyms, and restaurants. Under the new plan, each of New Zealand’s 20 health districts is required to reach the 90 percent vaccination target.
Though the vaccination rates have seen a decline in New Zealand, PM Ardern believes that Auckland can meet the vaccination target within weeks. Currently, 89% of eligible people in Auckland have received at least one dose of the Covid-19 vaccine and 73% have had both doses. This vaccination rate is slightly higher than that of the national average.
“My message to the New Zealanders who have not yet had their first dose: If you want summer, if you want to go to bars and restaurants, get vaccinated,” Ardern said. “If you want to get a haircut, get vaccinated. If you want to go to a concert, or a festival, get vaccinated.”
Opposition Leader Judith Collins is, however, wary of the target and believes that lockdowns could last for months. She is advocating a precautionary approach by fully reopening New Zealand by December.
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