Covid-19

You do not require a vaccine certificate to access our support.

You can be assured that all kaimahi at Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga are fully vaccinated and can provide the support you require with correct PPE at all times.

We know that the first line of defence against Covid-19 is the vaccine.  We encourage everyone who is eligible to receive the vaccine to get vaccinated to keep themselves and each other safe.  We are also able to provide booster shots to those who received their second vaccine six months ago.  Click on the link below to book your vaccine or find a place near you that provides the vaccine.

About AstraZeneca Vaccine

The AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine is now available for those aged 18 and older who cannot receive the Pfizer vaccine, and for people who would like a different option.

Pfizer remains the preferred COVID-19 vaccine for use in New Zealand, reflecting its excellent safety and effectiveness profile. Both the Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccines will protect you against the symptoms of COVID-19. Both vaccines are free.

You’ll need two doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine. The second can be given from 4 to 12 weeks after the first. To ensure you have the best protection, make sure you get both doses of the vaccine.

The AstraZeneca vaccine has been thoroughly assessed for safety by our own Medsafe experts. Medsafe only grants consent for using a vaccine in Aotearoa once they’re satisfied the international evidence shows benefits outweighs the risks. There have been no shortcuts taken in granting approval. The AstraZeneca vaccine has been used successfully by millions worldwide.

If you wish to have the AstraZeneca vaccine, you will be required to give signed consent. 

For more information on AstraZeneca Vaccine click here 

Getting Tested:

Common symptoms of COVID-19 are like those found with illnesses such as a cold or influenza. You may have one or more of the following:

• new or worsening cough
• sneezing and runny nose
• fever
• temporary loss of smell or altered sense of taste
• sore throat
• shortness of breath

Less common symptoms of COVID-19 may include diarrhoea, headache, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, malaise, chest pain, abdominal pain, joint pain or confusion/irritability. These almost always occur with one or more of the common symptoms.

Symptoms tend to arise around two to five days after a person has been infected but can take up to 14 days to show. The virus can be passed onto others before they know they have it – from up to two days before symptoms develop.

If you have any symptoms please call Healthline on 0800 358 5453 24 hours a day, seven days a week or talk to your doctor.

Rapid Antigen Testing

Please be aware of the TWO eligible criteria to receive RAT tests here:

Ordering RAT tests

You can get free RAT Tests by ordering online and picking them up from Taiwhenua Pharmacy

You will need to be able to show:

• your verification letter for the CCES programme (from MBIE)
• personal ID (for example, your driver licence)
• Close Contact verification (text message or NZ COVID Tracer app alert).

For information about Rapid Antigen Testing, please click here

Ka mate kāinga tahi ka ora kāinga rua

Preparing for Covid-19 @home 

Here are a few things to consider and prepare for in the event that you or someone in your whare needs to isolate at home. 

If you are isolating with your whānau at home and require support

call 0800 WHAKAMANA