RNZNCA REUNION UPDATE – NOV 21

Considering the COVID-19 situation in NZ, your committee has met to discuss and determine the way ahead for the 2021 Reunion, scheduled for 8-10 April 2022.

Essentially, it depends on the Government’s decisions on the transition from COVID-19 Alert Levels to the new Protection Framework.  Details of this are due to be announced on 29 Nov 21 and the committee will meet shortly after that to consider any implications for the Reunion.  All planning for the Reunion is now being made on the basis that the new framework will be in force at the time of the Reunion.  Currently, it is considered that the Reunion will be able to go ahead under the Green or Amber levels of the Traffic Lights system, but not under Red.  Details will be provided to members following the Government’s announcement and the subsequent committee meeting.

Deadline Date for Cancellation

While optimistic that the 2021 Reunion will be able to proceed as currently planned, the committee recognises that with COVID-19 being out in the community plans are like the legendary Pusser’s menu: subject to change without notice.

The committee must decide whether to go ahead with the Reunion by 14 Jan 22, to give the required notice to the businesses and organisations involved if it is decided to cancel it.  Notification of the decision will be promulgated to Association members at this time.

If the Reunion cannot be held on 8-10 Apr 22 for any reason it will be cancelled, rather than postponed again.  

Vaccination Certificates

The Government’s Traffic Lights system instructions identify that COVID-19 vaccination certificates are required for the Reunion.  Moreover, the Novotel New Plymouth has stated that anyone entering the hotel must be double vaccinated for COVID-19, as also mandated in the instructions.

Accordingly, all those attending the Reunion MUST have: 

• a COVID-19 vaccination certificate or other proof showing that they are double vaccinated; or 
• an exemption certificate if they are unable to be vaccinated for medical reasons.  

Reunion attendees must show this proof at the Reunion Registration Desk before they are admitted to the Reunion.  If they are unable to provide the proof, they will not be allowed to attend any Reunion functions or events, nor will they be paid any refunds.

Those staying in the Novotel will be required to provide proof of vaccination to the hotel at the time of check-in.  People may also need to provide proof of vaccination for other events or functions outside of the Novotel.

Future Reunions Schedule

The committee has decided that future reunions will be held as in the original triennial schedule.  The following reunion will therefore be held in 2024.

Annual General Meeting

Should the 2021 Reunion be cancelled, the Association’s deferred AGM will be held on Saturday, 12 February 2022.

GARY HOUGHTON, PRESIDENT RNZNCA