Archived COVID-19 Updates

Update of Status - Friday, 24 April 2020

Alert level change

New Zealand will move to Alert Level 3 at 11.59pm on Monday, 27 April 2020. Alert Level 3 will remain in place for a further two weeks, then cabinet will re-assess the likelihood of moving to Alert Level 2 

What does this mean for Toi Ohomai? 

We have now completed the analysis of programmes that can and cannot be delivered remotely. The only programmes returning to campus are those that are unable to continue to operate remotely. Careful consideration has been given to programmes that need to return to face-to-face delivery, to ensure we manage the risk appropriately. 

During this time, the default remains; where staff can work from home and deliver remotely, we will continue to do so.  

What guidelines are in place to protect those returning to campus? 

Guidelines have been established for staff, students and contractors who are returning to campus and face-to-face delivery. These guidelines include information such as;  

  • Attendance track and trace  
  • Movement on site, including breaks (i.e. lunch)  
  • Hygiene, cleaning and PPE  
  • Security and parking  
  • Personal health   
  • Before returning to campus all staff must read and agree to adhere to these guidelines. 

What does COVID-19 Alert Level 2 look like?

From next week, we will start to look at what Alert Level 2 will look like for tertiary education and what that means for Toi Ohomai staff and students. We’ll continue to take guidance from Government to ensure we keep all our staff and students safe.

Update of Status - Monday, 20 April 2020

Recap of the recent government announcements:

New Zealand will move to Alert Level 3 at 11.59pm on Monday, 27 April 2020. Alert Level 3 will remain in place for a further two weeks, then cabinet will re-assess the likelihood of moving to Alert Level 2.

What does this mean for Toi Ohomai?

We are taking a mindful, planned approach to any potential on-campus delivery. The analysis and communication of what programmes can and cannot be taught on campus will be completed by the end of the week.

The default remains; where we can deliver from home, we will continue to do so. The only programmes being considered for on-campus access are those environments that cannot operate at all (or require space, workshops and specialised equipment etc).

When reviewing any potential on-campus delivery, we will need to ensure that all Government guidelines around physical distancing are possible and can be strictly adhered to.

Update of Status - Friday, 17 April 2020

Government Announcement 

While New Zealand remains at Alert Level 4, details were announced yesterday regarding Alert Level Three. You can find detailed information regarding each alert level on the COVID-19 website. Next Monday 20 April, the Government will announce when we will be moving to Alert Level 3. 

What does this mean for me? 

Right now, nothing changes. Staff are continuing to work from home until advised otherwise.

What are we doing?

This week we have been working on scenario planning for both Alert Level Three and Alert Level Two. We have also been considering what teaching and learning, and the appropriate support services will look like at Level Three.

The principles that will guide us:

  • Is it necessary to be on campus?
  • How do we best manage the risk?

It is important to note, we will be taking a cautious approach as we review any teaching that will return to on-campus delivery. As stated in Alert Level Three guidelines, unless it is necessary, students will continue to learn remotely. Our focus remains steadfast on ensuring the health and safety of all our staff and students.

Update of Status - Monday, 6 April 2020

Teaching & Learning

Update on remote teaching: After much hard work from our teaching and learning teams, as of Monday, 30 March, 129 out of 209 programmes are being delivered remotely. Most of the remaining programmes on term break are currently being reviewed and developed to begin remote delivery after Easter.   

TANZ learning: we’re working with TANZ ECampus on a range of options to share online resources and information about how we can support learners together, in the event that our campuses remain closed for an extended period of time. This includes examining technology and access barriers and options.  

STP update: we've been working directly with individual departments regarding the delivery of L1, L2 and L3 STP courses for the remainder of the year. Individual course working plans are currently being developed by all relevant departments for at least the next few weeks of delivery. If you have any questions regarding STP delivery, please contact STP Manager Anne Helene Berthelot at STP@toiohomai.ac.nz.

Bay of Plenty Civil Defence Emergency Management has launched a call centre aimed at ensuring that basic household needs are met during the national rāhui period. The number is 0800 884 222 and will be open from 7am – 7pm, 7 days a week.

Update of Status - Tuesday, 24 March 2020

To recap recent announcements: 

Yesterday the Prime Minister announced that New Zealand is now at Alert Level 3. At midnight on Wednesday, 25 March, New Zealand will move to Alert Level 4. 

What this means is that: 

  • People are instructed to stay at home
  • Educational facilities will be closed 
  • Businesses will be 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

What this means for Toi Ohomai is that:  

  • as of Wednesday, 25 March 2020 at midday, we'll close all our campuses and delivery sites until further notice 
  • our gyms and childcare centres are now shut 
  • Rotorua Holiday Park will be closed with skeleton staff on site  
  • Melting Pot and Break Time will shut from midday today 

Teaching and Learning:

We’re finalising the planning of what teaching can continue remotely - in consideration of programme integrity, capability of staff working at home and accessibility for students.

Firstly, we’ll determine which programmes cannot be continued, and which programmes can. 

Any roll out of teaching will follow a staged approach. 

  • First stage: fully online programmes that are already operational will continue as planned, as much as possible (with individual student/staff home environment challenges managed on a case by case basis). 
  • Second stage: from Monday, 30 March, programmes that are ready to roll out remote delivery for a minimum of two-weeks will begin. This can include programmes who have given students take home tasks. 
  • Third stage: programmes that can be rolled out remotely, after the planned four-week shutdown, will begin if the shutdown period is extended. 

All essential services that maintain the well-being of animals, aquaculture, pools and the like, have been approved. People required to do this have been identified, approved by line managers and facilities has a list to provide to security.   

Services: 

Library: We'll be extending return dates on all library items and books. No overdue fines will be issued during this time. Please contact the Library Team if you have any questions at libraryhelp@toiohomai.ac.nz

Info Centres: Are physically closed, however the team are working remotely. For application, enrolment or general queries, please contact info@toiohomai.ac.nz or phone 0800 86 46 46 46. For payment queries, please contact accountspayable@toiohomai.ac.nz

Te Whare Hauora - Health Centre: will be physically closed and operating remotely. Phone calls will be redirected to the Kaitiaki Nurse for any health advice. Contact us on healthcentre@toiohomai.ac.nz or 07 5578756 (Windermere) 07 346883 (Mokoia).

All students will be provided with further information on our support services in planned student communications tomorrow, which will include a comprehensive contact list. 

Security: Extra security has been put in place to ensure all our campuses are secure during this time. 

Gym: Memberships will be put on hold until we reopen. If you have any questions, please email our Gym Team in Windermere or Mokoia 

Update of Status - Monday, 23 March 2020

Please see below the latest update regarding the COVID-19 situation, and to summarise the Prime Minister’s address that was held just after 2.00pm this afternoon.

New Zealand is now at Alert Level 3. In just under 48 hours time, New Zealand will move to Level 4 - the time required to get all essential services in place.

Toi Ohomai is now preparing for Level 4, therefore: 

  • All teaching ceases today until Friday, 27 March
  • Toi Ohomai moves to a full campus closure from 12pm, Wednesday, 25 March 2020 until further notice

The decision has been made that there will be no teaching this week to allow us time to establish how we'll deliver teaching and learning moving forward. This includes decisions on what can be undertaken remotely, and when we'll recommence teaching. We're also liaising with the Ministry of Education regarding the potential move of the Easter break. 

For now, we ask you to prioritise your well-being and that of your family.  

Our managers are working rapidly to establish “Work From Home” arrangements - please bear with us as we progress this. If you're required to be on campus tomorrow, please do so within the physical distancing guidelines.

Need help? 
If you have any questions, please email communication@toiohomai.ac.nz in the first instance – we have a dedicated team to respond, and where required, redirect any questions. We realise that there will now be additional questions that we can answer in our FAQs – we'll do this as soon as possible.

Update of Status - Monday, 23 March 2020

Please see below the latest update regarding the COVID-19 situation, and to summarise the Prime Minister’s address that was held just after 2.00pm this afternoon.  

New Zealand is now at Alert Level 3. In just under 48 hours time, New Zealand will move to Level 4 - the time required to get all essential services in place.

Toi Ohomai is now preparing for Level 4, therefore: 

  • All teaching ceases today until Friday, 27 March   

  • Toi Ohomai moves to a full campus closure from 12pm, Wednesday, 25 March 2020 until further notice

The decision has been made that there will be no teaching this week to allow us time to establish how we'll deliver teaching and learning moving forward. This includes decisions on what can be undertaken remotely, and when we'll recommence teaching. We're also liaising with the Ministry of Education regarding the potential move of the Easter break. 

For now, we ask you to prioritise your well-being and that of your family.  

Our managers are working rapidly to establish “Work From Home” arrangements - please bear with us as we progress this. If you're required to be on campus tomorrow, please do so within the physical distancing guidelines.

Need help? 
If you have any questions, please email communication@toiohomai.ac.nz in the first instance – we have a dedicated team to respond, and where required, redirect any questions. We realise that there will now be additional questions that we can answer in our FAQs – we'll do this as soon as possible.

Update of Status - Sunday, 22 March 2020

Due to the evolving situation around COVID-19, Toi Ohomai has decided to cease face-to-face teaching as of Tuesday 24 March 2020 until Friday 27 March 2020. 

This break will allow all Academic staff the time to best prepare for remote teaching, while ensuring the health and safety of our students and staff. 

Teaching and Learning staff will be provided further information about supporting students, and the potential changes to teaching and learning tomorrow morning. 

Full staff and student communications will be sent out by 4pm tomorrow afternoon. 

Update of Status - Saturday, 21 March 2020

Current Status and Recap of Government Address

There are now 53 confirmed cases of COVID-19, and four probable cases in New Zealand. 14 new cases were announced overnight – the locations of the new cases are; four in Wellington, one in Taranaki, three in Auckland, one in Waikato, one in Taupo, one in Manawatu and two in Nelson.  

At midday today, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern addressed the nation. It was announced that a new four-stage COVID-19 alert system, with accompanying measures, would be implemented.  This alert system can apply to the whole country, or just to certain towns and places.  

The COVID-19 alert levels for New Zealand are:

Level One: Prepare – the disease is contained 

Level Two: Reduce – the disease is contained but risks of community transmission are growing  

Level Three: Restrict – there is heightened risk the disease is not contained 

Level Four: Eliminate – it is likely the disease is not contained 

New Zealand is currently at Level Two. For further information refer to the Government alert levels​.

Level Two Government measures 

What we're doing 

Entry border measures maximised 

 

 Our international travel rules remain in place. 

Further restrictions on mass gatherings 

 

 We are continuing to review all events – please refer to previous communication for a full list of impacted events.

Physical distancing on public transport (e.g. leave the seat next to you empty if you can) 

 

 

Inter-campus travel should stop unless essential.  

If travel is essential physical distancing should be practiced.

Limit non-essential travel around New Zealand 

 

As above, all inter-campus travel should stop unless essential.  

Essential travel is likely to include teaching; leaders being accessible/ in support of their staff; essential continuation of support services.   

All domestic travel (including inter-campus travel) needs to be approved.  

Employers start alternative ways of working if possible (e.g. remote working, shift-based working, physical distancing within the workplace, staggering meal breaks, flexible leave arrangements) 

 

Schools and Tertiary Education providers currently remain open.   

We are now working through the finer details of implementing the 'Work From Home' plan. There will be an update on this on Monday afternoon. 

We will be encouraging working from home for all staff that are able.    

Business continuity plans activated 

 

We will be providing further details on this early next week.  

As mentioned on Friday, we are reviewing our ability to deliver programmes remotely, including examining access requirements and guidance around learning.  

High-risk people advised to remain at home (e.g. those over 70 or those with other existing medical conditions) 

 

All Toi Ohomai staff who are at high-risk should now work from home if able. This includes:  

  • any staff over 70 years of age
  • those with medical conditions such people with respiratory conditions, such as COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), heart conditions, high blood pressure, kidney problems and diabetes 
  • those who have a compromised immunity (including women who are pregnant)   

Where to from here?  

We will continue to provide you with regular updates – the next being Monday afternoon unless there are further government updates.

If you have questions, please email communication@toiohomai.ac.nz in the first instance – we have a dedicated team to respond, and where required, redirect any questions. 
 

Update of Status - Friday, 20 March 2020​

Recap of Recent Government Announcements

  • New Zealand now has 39 confirmed cases of COVID-19
  • New border measures​ are now in place: from 11.59pm on Thursday, 19 March 2020, only New Zealand residents and citizens (and their children and partners) will be permitted to enter New Zealand. This includes the Realm countries, Australian citizens and permanent residents who ordinarily reside in New Zealand, airline and marine crew.
  • Gatherings or events where 500 or more people are together in one place outdoors, or 100 people indoors, at the same time, should be cancelled.​
  • All recent announcements do not change any of the current actions and planning that we have in place. ​

What We're Doing

  • Our Pandemic Response Team continues to monitor and assess this situation daily, as further information becomes available from the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education.
  • Our Facilities Team are in action mode: 
    • Cleaning practices have increased throughout all campuses including daily cleaning of our shared spaces (computer/student labs).
    • Additional cleaning supplies have been secured and have been provided to our Library and Information Centre Teams.
    • Teaching staff that have a dedicated computer lab have been provided with cleaning supplies.
  • We've begun scoping our ability to deliver programmes remotely. Part of this work includes examining access requirements and guidance around learning.
  • We're developing the necessary ‘working from home’ frameworks for those that might be able to do so. This isn’t about shutting down, more so to do our part to ensure social distancing.
  • We’re in close communication with our ECE childcare centres, who have been actively communicating with parents.

Update of Event Status

  • Student Breakfast Club events (postponed until further notice).

What We're Currently Reviewing

  • We're establishing the necessary sharing of PPE and, therefore, the cleaning of this.
  • We're looking into reducing/splitting class sizes. 
  • In terms of the potential to move semester dates or shut down our campuses – these decisions would come from the Ministry of Education and we will be guided by this direction.

What You Can do to Help

  • We all can play a part in keeping our areas safe and clean. Where you can, please practice good hygiene and don’t share equipment. If possible, take your own keyboard, mouse and headset when travelling. 
  • Stay home if you’re unwell – please DO NOT attend campus or present at the Health Centre. For medical advice please RING (not present in person) to our on-campus Health Centre - Te Whare Hauora on 07 557 8756 or 07 346 8883 or contact Healthline on 0800 611 116. 
  • Wash hands frequently, and for at least 20 seconds with water and soap and dry them thoroughly – hand sanitiser on its own is not enough
  • If you are returning to New Zealand, and/or for whatever reason needing to self-isolate please register your details here.

 

Status Update - 18 March 2020

An update regarding the rapidly evolving COVID-19 situation, and the steps we are progressing with today in response:

What We're Doing

Our Pandemic Response Team (PRT) continues to meet every second day to discuss all announcements and updates, while continuing to analyse our contingency and business continuity plans accordingly. We’re also in close communication with other ITPs and industry organisations to share knowledge and decisions to ensure, where we can, that a consistent approach is taken. 

Recap of the Recent Government Announcements:

Update of Event Status:

All Toi Ohomai public events are to be cancelled or postponed through to the end of April. These events include: 

  • April Graduation Ceremonies – to be postponed 
  • Scholarship Awards Evening – to be cancelled
  • Community Connect Events – to be cancelled. Will be reviewing events set for second semester at a later date  
  • 2020 ITP Research Symposium – to be postponed till September 

We are also in the process of reviewing other gatherings including our upcoming staff drop-in sessions, all staff meetings and Student Open Days. We are expecting a further announcement from the government tomorrow with guidelines on these. Additionally, the Rotorua Career Expo has been cancelled and our involvement in the Eastern BOP Careers Expo is under review. 

Class Attendance

  • Until students receive official communication from us that says otherwise, classes will continue as per normal
  • If students miss class due to feeling unwell, it is their responsibility to inform their tutor and keep up to date with their coursework as they would normally
  • We’ll be increasing class attendance monitoring to ensure we know where people are, which will increase our ability to keep everyone safe

Staff Travel Update

After analysing the Government’s recommendation that all non-essential travel (both personal and work-related) should be avoided, we’ve made the decision that: 

  • If staff have been overseas in the last two weeks we support the Government's recommendation today that they commence self-isolation immediately. 
  • It is our preference now that all domestic flight travel for work purposes is cancelled
  • For general domestic travel (such as, by vehicle) we recommend the use of online conferencing technology if available
  • All personal international travel is strongly discouraged. Staff will certainly need to be prepared at a minimum for self-isolation

What We're Currently Reviewing:

  • We're conducting a review of all our cleaning practices and high frequent use areas, where increased cleaning will be needed, such as computer labs, libraries and cafes
  • We're conducting a sweep of all our technology to ensure that all Skype-enabled rooms are working, while also analysing the availability of mobile technology and resources
  • We're preparing our readiness and guidelines for staff to work from home
  • We're examining online delivery options, appropriate class sizes and increasing attendance taking practices, along with potential implications for placements and practicums.We’ll communicate any changes as soon as we have information available

What You Can do to Help:

  1. Staff and students are to stay home if unwell – and are NOT to attend campus or present at the Health Centre. For medical advice please RING (not present in person) to our on-campus Health Centre - Te Whare Hauora or contact Healthline on 0800 611 116 
  2. Wash hands frequently, and for at least 20 seconds with water and soap and dry them thoroughly – hand sanitizer on its own is not sufficient
  3. Due to the worldwide shortage of hand sanitizer, we will be prioritising supply for public-facing and highly frequented areas. Where you can help is to clean surfaces and refrain from sharing equipment
  4. From early April, our Health Centre will be offering the annual flu vaccines right here on campus. 
  5. Be kind and considerate with everyone; there is a lot happening so just a reminder that everyone will be doing their best to work through these trying times 

Need Help?

If you have questions please email communication@toiohomai.ac.nz in the first instance – we have a dedicated team to respond, and where required, redirect any questions.

 

April Graduation Ceremonies Postponed

The health and safety of our staff and students is an absolute priority, so due to the evolving nature of the COVID-19 situation, it's with a heavy heart that we’ve made the decision to postpone our upcoming April graduation ceremonies. Read more...

 

Status Update - 16 March 2020

You’ve likely heard the news about the rapidly evolving changes to travel restrictions and health advice in regards to COVID-19 Coronavirus. On Sunday 15 March 2020, the Government announced new border measures, stating that any person arriving into New Zealand as of Monday 16 March will have to self-isolate for 14 days upon their arrival. The restrictions do not apply to the Pacific Islands.

COVID-19 is now present in over 100 countries, many of which have community outbreaks. Reducing the flow of people coming into New Zealand, and ensuring those who do still come immediately self-isolate, are essential frontline tools to limit the risk of wider outbreaks here.

New Zealand now has eight confirmed cases based on positive test results and two probable cases.

We’re continuing to closely monitor the developing situation and want to provide you with update about:  

  • What we’re doing to ensure the ongoing health and safety of all our staff and students
  • Steps that you can take to help us keep you safe
  • How this developing situation will impact you

What Toi Ohomai is Doing

  • We’ve escalated our current ‘Critical Incident Team’ to a ‘Pandemic Response Team (PRT)’ encompassing more representatives from across our organisation, including Academic Delivery, Teaching and Learning, and People, Engagement and Capability. This will ensure that all our teams have a voice when making decisions regarding staff and student well-being and safety
     
  • The PRT will be checking in daily with the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education representatives to ensure the accuracy of all the current information on this developing outbreak. From there, all implications for Toi Ohomai will be analysed and, where necessary, contingency plans developed to ensure business continuity
     
  • We will increase communication through emails, staff intranet, and our website and social media during this time

How You Can Help

  • Stay home if you’re unwell
     
  • Wash hands frequently, and for at least 20 seconds with water and soap and dry them thoroughly - alcohol hand gels on their own are not sufficient. We will be running a series of interactive ‘hand washing’ exercises for both staff and students – more detail about these workshops will follow shortly
     
  • Avoid close personal contact, such as kissing, sharing cups or food

Updates to Staff Travel

  • The Government announced that all non-essential travel (both personal and work-related) should be avoided
     
  • To minimise risk of infection to our staff and students, Toi Ohomai is advising that all staff international travel for work purposes (including Trans-Tasman travel) will be suspended until further notice. This includes cancelling or postponing existing travel arrangements
     
  • Personal international travel remains at the individual's own risk. We recommend reconsidering making personal overseas travel arrangements for the foreseeable future. Please be aware that if you do decide to travel that dependent on your travel destination, you will be required to self-isolate for two weeks on return. We’re currently reviewing our stance on the implications of self-isolation for non-essential, personal overseas travel and will provide further updates this week
     
  • Inter-campus travel will continue as per normal  

Updates to Student Travel

  • Due to high-risk and changeability of the situation, we strongly recommend that our students avoid any non-essential overseas travel. There could be a range of issues if they decide to travel such as, not being let back into New Zealand and the requirement to self-isolate. As most of our students live in shared accommodation, travel could increase risk to all those in proximity
     
  • We will not be providing any letters of endorsement for international travel for students
     
  • Any students with pre-existing travel arrangements booked, should register their details with the Health & Safety team

Pōhiri Protocol

Until advised differently, pōhiri and other Māori cultural practices will be adjusted in line with MoH recommendations. This means that there will be no physical contact. The appropriate cultural/spiritual practices that will be undertaken at and for each cultural event, will be communicated by the Kaitiaki Māori or their delegate at the event and in advance.

Marae Bookings

We take seriously and earnestly our commitment to caring for and respecting ourselves, others and our environment. We want people to feel safe, confident and at ease at our Toi Ohomai marae and within the whare; Ihenga, Pomare, and Te-Tahi-o-Te Rangi.  

In this unprecedented time of the COVID-19 pandemic we are implementing the following rāhui (restriction) to protect the health and safety of staff, students and visitors to the various marae at Toi Ohomai:  

  • No Physical Contact at Pōhiri: Pōhiri and other Māori cultural practices will be adjusted in line with MoH recommendations.This means that there will be no physical contact
     
  • No Overnight Stays: We will not be allowing communal sleeping in the whare, until further notice
     
  • Follow MoH Prevention Guidelines: Please follow the MoH Health Advice guidelines on the MoH website and refer the Tikanga and Gatherings advice
     
  • Re-assessment of Mass Gatherings: A mass gathering is where many people are together in one place, at one time for a set period. We will be applying the MoH guidelines to gatherings at the various whare

We all have obligations to limit the spread of the virus and basic health measures is are the heart of that, and we ask that you adhere to the MoH guidelines and the above-mentioned measures, whilst enjoying the marae environs.

Need Help?

If you have questions please email communication@toiohomai.ac.nz in the first instance – we have a dedicated team to respond, and where required, redirect any questions.   

Where to From Here?

We will be providing further updates in the coming days.

 

Status Update - 12 March, 2020

This morning the World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared COVID-19 a pandemic.

There are now five confirmed cases of the virus in New Zealand and the Ministry of Health (MoH) are advising that with continued vigilance, the chance of widespread community outbreak is expected to remain low. 

International travel

To minimise risk of infection to our staff and students Toi Ohomai is advising that all staff international travel for work purposes (including Trans-Tasman travel) will be suspended until further notice. This includes travel that has already been booked.  

Personal travel

Staff and student personal international travel remains at individual risk.  It’s worth noting, that dependent on travel destination staff and students may be required to self-isolate for two weeks on return. We are referring to the MFAT rules around this. Staff have been requested to discuss travel plans with their line manager, as consideration will need to be made to ensure the health and safety of all staff and students, and whether a self-isolation period would apply.  Further detailed information will be available to all line managers shortly.

Graduation and Pōhiri protocol 

These events often require a level of intimacy – hand shaking, hongi, and hugging.  The respective teams who manage these events are now working on protocol in line with MoH recommendations. Staff and students will be advised of these prior to attending any of these events.

Our students 

We are regularly updating our students via social media and newsletters with current information, as well as guidelines around personal hygiene and what to do in the event they become unwell. Our staff have been asked to provide students who might have further questions to either phone the Toi Ohomai on-campus Health Centre - Te Whare Hauora on 07 557 8756 or 07 346 8883 or contact Healthline on 0800 611 116. 

Where to from here? 

The Toi Ohomai Critical Response Team are continuing to meet weekly to manage this situation closely. We have asked our staff and students to continue to follow safety precautions to protect each other including: 

  1. As always, staff and students who are unwell should refrain from attending campus. In particular, those that show symptoms of acute respiratory infection must not attend work.
  2. Please practice and encourage thorough hand hygiene in classes and on campus by using soap and water - alcohol hand gels on their own are not sufficient. We will be running a series of interactive ‘hand washing’ exercises for both staff and students – more detail about these workshops will follow shortly.

Below are two videos on correct hand washing technique and coughing etiquette. 

If you have any questions please call Healthline on 0800 358 5453 (or for international SIMs +64 9 358 5453). It’s free and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

 

Status Update - 4 March, 2020

As you are likely aware, to date New Zealand now has two confirmed cases of COVID-19 detected in Auckland. Ministry of Health is prepared and ready to deal with a COVID-19 outbreak should it occur here. The risk of an ongoing community outbreak is low to moderate, and Ministry of Health are monitoring the situation closely.

Toi Ohomai has a Critical Response Team managing this developing situation closely, including analysing any ongoing potential impact on our staff and students. We're checking in daily with the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education representatives to ensure the accuracy of all the current information on this developing outbreak. As a reminder, Toi Ohomai has procedures in place for any infectious disease incidents, and these have been reviewed over the last few weeks.

What does this mean for Toi Ohomai?

  • There is no change to our position from the previous update (4 February 2020). We'll continue to keep you all updated if this should change
  • If you have any concerns, please don't hesitate to contact the International Team or the Health and Safety Team.

Below we've included some simple information about COVID- 19 and how to protect yourself and others.

How it spreads

Like the flu, COVID-19 can be transmitted from person to person. The scientific evidence confirms that coronavirus is spread by droplets. This means that when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks, they may generate droplets containing the virus. These droplets are too large to stay in the air for long, so they quickly settle on surrounding surfaces.

Droplet-spread diseases can be spread by:

  • coughing and sneezing
  • close personal contact
  • ​contact with an object or surface with viral particles on it and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes.

That's why it's really important to practice good hygiene, regularly wash and thoroughly dry your hands and practice good cough etiquette.

Prevention - how to protect yourself and others

You can take some simple steps to help stop the spread of diseases like COVID-19.

  • Avoid close contact with people with cold or flu-like illnesses.
  • Cover coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues or clothing.
  • Wash hands for at least 20 seconds with water and soap and dry them thoroughly: 
    • before eating or handling food
    • after using the toilet
    • after coughing, sneezing, blowing your nose or wiping children's noses
    • after caring for sick people.
  • Below are two videos on correct hand washing technique and coughing etiquette.

If you have any questions please call Heathline on 0800 358 5453 (or for international SIMs +64 9 358 5453). It's free and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. People calling that line will be able to talk with a member of the National Telehealth Service. They also have access to interpreters.

  • Healthline's main number for non-coronavirus health concerns - 0800 611 116
  • Windermere Campus, Health Centre - Te Whare Hauora, on 07 557 8756
  • Mokoia Campus; Health Centre Te Whare Hauora, on 07 346 8883

All contact numbers will be able to provide you with professional health advice and information.

 

For further information, please see:

International SOS

New Zealand Ministry of Education

New Zealand  Ministry of Health

World Health Organization ​

 

Status Update - 4 February, 2020

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) have updated their travel advisory and now recommend that New Zealanders do not travel to any part of mainland China.

In order to reduce the chances of 2019-nCoV spreading within New Zealand, additional border measures have been implemented, with effect from midnight on 2 February 2020.

There are no confirmed cases of 2019-nCoV in New Zealand to date but the likelihood of importing a case is high. The risk of an ongoing outbreak in New Zealand remains low. 

On 2 February 2020, the New Zealand government made the following announcement:

The Government is placing temporary entry restrictions into New Zealand on all foreign nationals travelling from, or transiting through mainland China to assist with the containment of the novel coronavirus and to protect New Zealand and the Pacific Islands from the disease.

This will take effect from tomorrow and will be in place for up to 14 days. This position will be reviewed every 48 hours.

Any foreign travellers who leave or transit through mainland China after 2 February 2020 (NZ time) will be refused entry to New Zealand.

Any foreign travellers in transit to New Zealand on 2 February 2020 will be subject to enhanced screening on arrival but, pending clearance, will be granted entry to New Zealand.

New Zealand citizens and permanent residents returning to New Zealand will still be able to enter, as will their immediate family members, but will be required to self-isolate for 14 days on arrival back in the country.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade has also raised its travel advice to New Zealanders for all of mainland China to “Do not travel”, the highest level.

Read the full statement

What does this mean? 

We understand that the implications of this restricted travel will be of concern of some of our staff and students currently in China, or have plans to transit through China. Toi Ohomai is currently working to assess all those impacted to minimise disruption where possible. We believe this travel restriction impacts 15 of our returning/new students, who are currently in China. 

We’re working closely with our International agents to urgently change travel routes for those students who have travel plans that include a China transit. 

What does this mean for Toi Ohomai students? 

  • If you have recently returned from China, or have a household member who has recently returned from China, you will be required to self-isolate for 14 days from the date you re-entered New Zealand
  • Self-isolation means avoiding situations where you could infect other people. This means all situations where you may come in contact with others, such as social gatherings, work, school, child care/pre-school centres, university, faith-based gatherings, aged care and healthcare facilities, prisons, sports gatherings, supermarkets, restaurants, shopping malls, and all public gatherings
  • Our International Team are currently working to contact all students that have recently travelled from, or transited through China, to provide support and advice where required. They are also working with our International Agents to support incoming students who have travel plans that include a transit through China. If you would like to contact our International Team please email: International.Enquiries@toiohomai.ac.nz 
  • For domestic students who have recently travelled/returned from mainland China, you will also be required to self-isolate for 14 days from the date you re-entered New Zealand. If you’re concerned about missing any classes please contact your Faculty Administrator who will be able to support you 
  • If you have any questions or need health advice, please phone the Toi Ohomai on-campus Health Centre - Te Whare Hauora on 07 557 8756 or 07 346 8883, or contact Healthline on 0800 611 116. Healthline has translators available to assist you. 

Please continue to follow safety precautions: 

  1. As always, staff and students who are unwell should refrain from attending campus
  2. Please practice and encourage thorough hand hygiene in classes and on campus by using soap and water - alcohol hand gels on their own are not sufficient. During O-Week we will be hosting a series of fun and interactive ‘hand-washing’ exercises for all students – more detail about these workshops will follow shortly 
  3. People with symptoms of acute respiratory infection should practice cough etiquette (maintain distance, cough into your bent elbow if possible). Cover coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues or clothing, dispose of tissues in a rubbish bin, do not reuse them and wash hands.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Toi Ohomai doing to protect students and staff from Coronavirus?

Toi Ohomai has convened a Critical Response Team to manage this developing situation, including analysing any potential impact on our staff and students.  We’re monitoring the situation closely and checking in daily with Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education websites to ensure the accuracy of all the current information on this developing outbreak. Toi Ohomai has procedures in place for any infectious disease incidents, and these have been reviewed over the last few days.

It has been decided that: 

  • Self-isolation for staff and students deemed high-risk - Following the advice of New Zealand Ministry of Health and New Zealand Ministry of Education, we’ve informed our staff and our students that those deemed as high-risk (recently travelled or transited through mainland China) self-isolate for 14 days from the date they re-entered New Zealand. Toi Ohomai is currently working with those impacted to provide accommodation and study support if required. Our goal is to ensure that the impact on our students’ study is as minimal as possible. 
  • Staff Travel to China postponed - We have postponed all staff travel to China.
  • Constant communication with staff and students

We are keeping both our staff and students informed of updated through our website, weekly emails, social media channels and company intranet. Both our website and intranet have dedicated sites where staff and students can access information. Our International and People, Engagement and Capability teams are working closely with those directly impacted to provide support and advice. 

2. Can I attend Toi Ohomai campuses?

If you are well and have no symptoms, you are welcome on campus for the start of your studies.

3. I feel unwell, what should I do?

If you feel unwell, stay home until you are recovered and no longer experiencing symptoms. Please do not attend classes or any of our campuses. We recommend that you contact Healthline on 0800 611 116 in the first instance if you feel unwell or if you have any concerns. If you do call Healthline, it is important to mention if you have recently travelled to China or if you’ve had any contact with someone with severe acute respiratory illness who has been in China.

Students can contact the Toi Ohomai on-campus Health Centre - Te Whare Hauora if you have any questions or concerns. PLEASE CALL US FIRST AND WE WILL ADVISE YOU ON WHAT TO DO NEXT

  • Windermere Campus, Health Centre - Te Whare Hauora, on 07 557 8756 
  • Mokoia Campus, Health Centre - Te Whare Hauora, on 07 346 8883

Staff can also contact their local medical practice or general practitioner with any questions or concerns.

4. As a student, what if my travel is delayed due to travel disruptions?

Our International Team are currently working with students who are impacted by these travel restrictions. We will be making provisions for those whose study will be impacted, which may include deferring study to semester two. Where possible, we are working to ensure minimal impact for students who are planning to begin their studies with Toi Ohomai. If you would like to contact our International Team please email: International.Enquiries@toiohomai.ac.nz

Further Information and Resources

World Health Organisation website - situation updates and the latest advice on the 2019-nCoV

New Zealand Ministry of Health website

New Zealand Ministry of Education website

International SOS