Following todays government announcement around the easing of restrictions associated with the COVID Protection Framework and vaccine requirements, clubs and members are advised of the following changes, below.

Changes to the COVID-19 Protection Framework (CPF)

• From 11.59pm this Friday 25 March

Red 

• There will be no limits for outdoor activities with My Vaccine Pass – such as gatherings, events, and food/drink retailers. 
• Face masks are no longer required at outdoor settings.  
• There is no requirement to scan in or for a business to display a QR code poster or have mandatory record keeping. 

Orange 

• There will be no capacity limits for indoor and outdoor gatherings and events, but face masks are still required in many indoor settings. 
• There is no requirement to scan in or for a business to display a QR code poster or have mandatory record keeping. 

Green 

• There are no requirements, but good health habits should still be maintained to help look after those who are more vulnerable to COVID-19.

My Vaccine Pass

• From 11.59pm Monday 4 April, My Vaccine Passes will no longer be required.
• Until 4 April, where My Vaccine Passes are not used, the current restrictions remain — but after this time, the new restrictions will apply to everyone.

The ONZ guidelines will be updated in the coming days to reflect these changes. In some instances, landowners or other stakeholders (Schools, Councils etc), may have requirements which supercede these restrictions.

At all levels, the testing and isolation requirements remain as they are now. If you have symptoms or someone in your household tests positive, isolate and get tested.

Obviously this is great news for the sport and this will simplify event management for all clubs. It is also an opportunity to welcome back non vaccinated orienteers into main stream events where restrictions have limited their involvement in recent months.

Many thanks to all clubs and members who have adapted and responded to the restrictions and guidelines in place in the last 2 years. We look forward to a return to a less disrupted calendar in the coming months.

ONZ CPF policy can be found here

Peter Swanson