We are living in unprecedented times. As the situation with the COVID-19 pandemic evolves, each new day can feel daunting.

Local businesses are feeling the pressure, and the health and wellbeing of our people – our Council staff and our community – is our priority.

Council is working closely in partnership with the Nelson Marlborough District Health Board, the Nelson Regional Economic Development Agency and Government agencies to protect our people and help them get through this difficult time.

We know that COVID-19 will financially impact people, and we are working through options for those who may find themselves in financial hardship.

I am working with the Chief Executive to provide the most cost-effective options possible to deliver the services we need to continue to live well in our city.

We will keep you updated as we progress a review of Council’s finances over the next few months. Please be assured we have the ability to meet all of our financial obligations to staff and Council’s contractors.

Our contingency plans, ensuring our essential services will continue, are just one of the ways Council is working to reduce the pressure on our community.

What we can all do, what we must do, is be kind to one another. In the face of so much uncertainty, how we behave toward one another, knowing each and every one of us is feeling the effect of COVID-19 in some way, is something we can control.

Physical distancing doesn’t have to mean social isolation. Pick up the phone and call your friends, your relatives. Skype them, message them, do whatever you can to keep in touch safely. Equally importantly, consider your neighbours, particularly those who are on their own or elderly.

We know Coronavirus is a much more serious disease for older adults and people with underlying health conditions. It’s important we don’t leave these people out of our thoughts, or our actions.

Heed the Ministry of Health’s advice on how we can all help to keep our community safe. Your actions could help save someone else’s life.

And in all of this, please don’t forget to take care of yourself. When we come out the other side of this – and we will – we will need everyone to be as healthy and able as they can as we forge on together.