Covid-19 lockdown: what’s open and what’s closed

What stores can I expect to remain open?

Supermarkets, pharmacies and petrol stations will stay open during the Covid-19 lockdown. They’re regarded as essential services.

Will dairies be open?

Dairies can stay open but must use strict physical distancing rules for customers. This means they may need to operate a “one-in one-out” policy. Takeaway coffees – and any other food and drink prepared or packaged on-site after ordering – can’t be sold.

What about big box retailers such as The Warehouse?

The Warehouse and other big box retailers won’t be open due to the risk of spreading the virus.

Can I buy other products online and get them delivered?

Retail stores can operate online in order to provide essential non-food products. Delivery must be contactless. These stores can’t have customers on their premises.

What’s happening with food delivery services?

Services such as My Food Bag and Hello Fresh (which deliver food that’s not pre-cooked) and Meals on Wheels will be allowed but delivery must be contactless.

Contactless deliveries from stores such as butchers, bakeries and green-grocers can continue.

However, food delivery services such as Uber Eats and Delivereasy won’t be available.

What about bottle stores?

Liquor stores will be closed.

The only exception is in Licensing Trust Areas where there’s nowhere else to buy alcohol. These stores must operate a “one-in one-out” policy.

Can I get takeaways?

No. Takeaways must close.

Will self-service laundromats be open?

Yes. Self-service laundries can stay open. However, the two-metre physical distancing rule must be used.

What about gyms? Do I have to keep paying membership fees?

Gyms will be closed during the lockdown. We expect gyms to be putting membership fees on hold as customers can’t use the facilities.

Will mail continue to be delivered?

Yes. NZ Post will deliver mail.

Will my newspaper still be delivered?

Newspaper deliveries will continue.

Will power companies and telcos be open?

Utility services will continue to operate. If you need to contact your power company or telco, call them or contact them online.

What about rubbish and recycling?

Waste collection is an essential service so rubbish will continue to be collected. Check your council’s website to see if recycling will continue to be collected during the lockdown.