Phil Goff
Auckland, August 28, 2020
Testing and social distancing should still be observed
Celebrations for Indian Independence Day this year were unfortunately interrupted by the recent resurgence of Covid-19 and Auckland’s return to Level 3 Lockdown.
As ever, I had been looking forward to attending events to mark this special occasion, and was disappointed that they were not possible this year.
To all members of our Indian community, a belated best wishes for the National Day—Jai Hind!
Celebrating Indian partnership
Indian Independence Day is an opportunity to celebrate the contribution our Indian community makes to the diversity, vibrancy and success of Auckland. Members of the Indian community are achieving growing success as business leaders, entrepreneurs, community workers, and sportspeople, and events such as the upcoming Diwali Festival (October 31 and November 1, 2020) are an increasingly important part of the cultural fabric of our city.
Independence Day is also a time to acknowledge those who led India to independence, foremost of whom was Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, a man whose vision inspired and continues to inspire us with his commitment not only to independence but also peaceful activism, social justice and a world without conflict.
Gandhi’s commitment to his community is a strong example to follow as we confront the second wave of Covid-19. Earlier in the year, we were successful in defeating the first wave of the Virus, something we achieved by working together.
That is exactly how we will defeat Covid-19 a second time: by following the rules, looking out for each another and doing our part to keep ourselves and our families safe.
Get tested please
We have seen some success already, with health authorities agreeing that it is safe for Auckland to move to Level 2 from Monday, August 31, 2020; however, Covid-19 may still be in the community and hence it is important to remain vigilant.
If you experience symptoms of the virus, call your doctor or Healthline on 0800-358-5453 and follow the advice given. If you are asked to take a test, please do so.
Regular and widespread testing is one of the most effective ways we have to combat Covid-19.
Other things you should do include downloading the NZ Covid Tracer App and using it to track your movements, and registering your ‘AT HOP’ Card with updated contact details.
This will enable you to be easily contacted if required.
Face covering mandatory
From August 31, 2020, it is mandatory to wear a face covering when on public transport, and strongly recommended that you also do so in other situations where physical distancing is difficult, such as at the supermarket.
It is also important that we keep up with the good habits we have learned over the past few months.
Remember to wash your hands regularly, sneeze and cough into your elbow and maintain physical distance when out and about.
Finally, please be careful about the information you share, especially if it come via social media.
Already, we have seen harmful and unsubstantiated rumours spreading.
These create fear and mistrust among our communities, and ultimately make it harder to fight Covid-19. Please only trust information from approved government sources or reputable media outlets. The best source of up-to-date and reliable information about Covid-19 is the government’s website at www.covid19.govt.nz
For Auckland Council news and updates, please visit www.ourauckland.nz
By working together and following health guidelines, we can beat Covid-19 again, just as we did last time.
Phil Goff is Mayor of Auckland. He writes a regular Column in Indian Newslink.
