The resurgence of Covid-19 is a very real reminder that we need to plan and prepare now for changes in alert levels at any time, ensuring plans are in place to operate at higher alert levels if needed, says the NZ Trucking Association.

The association offers the following information that may be useful: 

• Delays at Auckland borders – employer letters: We understand drivers are being stopped and asked for documentation at the Auckland road boarders and this is causing significant delays. The following advice has come through from the Ministry of Transport overnight:

Road freight drivers do not need to seek exemption as they already have one under the Covid-19 Public Health Response (Alert Levels 3 and 2) Order 2020, Schedule Three (CLICK HERE to view website). They only need to provide a letter from their employer. We continue to work with police to reinforce this message to their frontline staff at checkpoints to remind them that freight workers are allowed to cross the border with an employer letter. These issues will hopefully be resolved quickly, but in the meantime it is suggested to reference the below paragraph in your employer letters for operators to carry:

“That they are operating under an exemption under the Covid-19 Public Health Response (Alert Levels 3 and 2) Order, Schedule 3, and that as per the Ministry of Transport website, reference: https://www.transport.govt.nz/about/covid-19/#Alert3 all that is required for operators operating under this exemption is a letter from their employer stating they are providing a business or service (listed in schedule 3 of the order or granted an exemption under section 27 of the Order) and that they need to travel for this.”

• Testing at ports: On 17 August the Ministry of Health issued a new Maritime Testing Order. It extends the timeframe of the previous order for testing to 20 August and in the definition section, introduces a new definition for higher risk worker. CLICK HERE to view this order. 

This means that only the people considered in the definition of an affected worker need to be tested. Anyone showing symptoms of Covid-19 however, should be tested and follow advice of medical professionals. The ministry has also advised that border workers only need to self-isolate while waiting for test results if they have symptoms. If they are asymptomatic there is no need to self-isolate while waiting for results. CLICK HERE for full advice from the Ministry of Health.  

• Wage Subsidy Scheme Extension: It was announced yesterday that workers whose jobs may be affected by the re-emergence of Covid-19 in Auckland will be supported by a new wage subsidy scheme and a simplified leave scheme. For Information about the 2-week Resurgence Wage Subsidy payment CLICK HERE. Applications can be made from 1pm on 21 August, until 3 September.

• Contact tracing poster for business premises: Businesses must have a Covid-19 contact tracing poster displayed at the entry of their business premise by 12pm tomorrow. CLICK HERE to create a poster, it‘s quick and easy.

• Expert advice through the Regional Business Partner Network: Get help with pressing business problems with the Regional Business Partner Network (RBP). With extra funding to support small businesses through Covid-19, your local RBP can offer access to expert advice to fit your needs. 

Examples include: cashflow and finances, HR issues, health and wellness, business continuity planning, digital upskilling. Tourism businesses can also access industry-specific support. To get started, register with your local RBP: CLICK HERE

If you need clarification around anything or have issues, contact the NZ Trucking Association.