Covid-19 - The impact on squash - 23rd March

The COVID-19 epidemic continues to spread through New Zealand and has already put a halt on the majority of squash activity.

What's happened today (23rd March)?

The New Zealand Government has announced the COVID-19 alert level has raised to Level 3. This will then be increased on midnight Wednesday 25 March to Level 4. For more on the COVID-19 alert levels visit https://covid19.govt.nz/

What is expected now?

Below is a list of measures that will be enforced as a result of moving to Alert Level 4:

- People instructed to stay at home

- Educational facilities closed

- Businesses closed except for essential services (e.g. supermarkets, pharmacies, clinics) and lifeline utilities

- Rationing of supplies and requisitioning of facilities

- Travel severely limited

- Major reprioritisation of healthcare services

How it affects clubs

As announced by Squash NZ on the 19^th of March, all national and district squash competitions/ events are suspended until the 1^st of May.

Now, with the New Zealand Government raising the COVID-19 Alert system to level 3, government regulations state that all squash clubs nationwide (as non-essential businesses where public congregate) must close effective immediately.

For those clubs with paid employees, you may be aware of the government’s support packages that were announced on Tuesday. These are designed to help keep staff employed while organisations consider the disruption to their usual operations. Employers can apply through the Ministry of Social Development and pass the payments on to staff through wages.

To Learn more: https://covid19.govt.nz/help-and-advice/for-businesses-and-organisations/employers-including-rse/

To apply visit: https://www.workandincome.govt.nz/products/a-z-benefits/covid-19-support.html#null

Getting Help and Advice

Visit the Government run COVID-19 website: covid19.govt.nz/

Follow the Ministry of Health Guidelines: www.health.govt.nz 

If you’re finding it tough, or know of someone who is, don’t be afraid to reach out to Family and Friends.

Other options for external mental health help: Lifeline: 0800 543 354 | Text line at 4357

Squash New Zealand and the districts are working through the implications that closing squash facilities will have on the sport.  Further information on the support that can be provided to clubs will be sent out by Thursday 26^th March.  Further updates will be provided as soon as information is released.