On the day Auckland moves into the COVID-19 Protection Framework, the Tāmaki Makaurau region can also celebrate the achievement of 90 per cent of the eligible population being fully vaccinated across the region.
“It has been a phenomenal effort involving partnerships with Māori and Pasifika communities to ensure that Auckland in a short space of time has become one of the world’s most highly vaccinated cities,” Mayor Phil Goff says.
“A lot of work from kaumatua, rangatahi, councillors, Māori and Pasifika health leaders, community groups, schools, marae, the Northern Region Health Coordination Centre, the Auckland Regional Public Health Service, the business community, and Auckland Council has gone into the vaccination effort.
“It’s been great to see so many people working together for the good of the community.
“The community vaccination events I have attended including the national Vaxathon have shown a community spirit and enthusiasm which is inspiring.
“Aucklanders have come together to get vaccinated to protect themselves, their families and their communities from COVID-19. This has allowed us to move into the COVID-19 Protection Framework and enjoy a greater range of freedoms.”
The mahi in expanding the vaccination campaign across Tāmaki Makaurau has focused on three critical areas: access to reliable information and providing opportunities to kōrero (talk) about COVID-19 and the Pfizer vaccine; taking the vaccine to communities through fun pop-up events in easy-to-access, safe and familiar community venues; and providing additional welfare support where it’s most needed for families hardest hit by the ongoing lockdown restrictions.
“The effort to reach out to as many people as possible has been a big challenge, but one that has been supported by some significant commercial partners,” said Olivia Lynch, Customer and Community Partnership Lead for Auckland Council.
“It has been an incredible effort and the support of different businesses has made it successful. We have seen a huge range of businesses come on board including The Chemist Warehouse, Downer, and Bed Bath & Beyond who have donated vouchers, products, kai, and provided financial donations for welfare packs.”
She acknowledges that the support of Auckland businesses has been a significant contribution to the success of the vaccination roll-out.
“It isn’t just about the donations; it is also about businesses showing that they care about Aucklanders and are committed to opening up our city safely.”
