We did it! 

We have now moved to Alert Level 1 and with that, a lifting of a lot of the restrictions that we needed to plan for.

With many Go Bus Senior Rugby pre season games kicking off this Saturday with the usual crowds of passionate fans, our advice to individuals is to enjoy the moment, but it now becomes a personal responsibility to stay safe. Clubs are being encouraged to continue offering contact tracing systems and hygiene options for members who wish to continue using them. 

Rugby Southland and NZR would just like to acknowledge the efforts and support as we have wrestled with the demands of COVID-19 and attempting to intelligently interpret the implications at each level for rugby, clubs and schools.

Whilst it has fortunately turned out to be largely academic, there has been some valuable insights into how to problem solve, the ability of rugby clubs to work together, as well as sport collaboration. Rugby Southland and NZR would also like to acknowledge the considerable hours and days that volunteers have put into making their rugby environments safe. Having watched clubs from afar on social media, it has been impressive to watch their response to reassure their members that they are working hard to keep them safe.

So with the return of rugby this weekend, here are the 'Golden Rules' of Level 1

1. If you’re sick, stay home. Don’t go to work or school. Don’t socialise.
2. If you have cold or flu symptoms call your doctor or Healthline and make sure you get tested.
3. Wash your hands. Wash your hands. Wash your hands.
4. Sneeze and cough into your elbow, and regularly disinfect shared surfaces.
5. If you are told by health authorities to self-isolate you must do so immediately.
6. If you’re concerned about your wellbeing or have underlying health conditions, work with your GP to understand how best to stay healthy.
7. Keep track of where you’ve been and who you’ve seen to help contact tracing if needed. Use the NZ COVID Tracer app as a handy way of doing this.
8. Businesses should help people keep track of their movements by displaying the Ministry of Health QR Code for contact tracing.
9. Stay vigilant. There is still a global pandemic going on. People and businesses should be prepared to act fast to step up Alert Levels if we have to.
10. People will have had different experiences over the last couple of months. Whatever you’re feeling — it’s okay. Be kind to others. Be kind to yourself.

Article added: Tuesday 09 June 2020