Collection sites for Rapid Antigen Tests around Hawke’s Bay have seen strong demand, with some sites having to close early on Sunday due after demand outstripped supply.
Hawke’s Bay DHB COVID-19 spokesperson Chris McKenna said 126,000 RAT kits were distributed to collection sites on Friday, but by Sunday afternoon the supply had run out.
An additional 24,000 RAT kits were due to arrive last week but were held up with arrival expected today.
Mrs McKenna said an additional 126,000 RAT kits are also due to arrive on Tuesday.
She said anyone with COVID-19 symptoms and needing a test today should visit a drive-in testing centre to help reduce demand at collection sites.
For local testing information people can visit the website www.ourhealthhb.nz.
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The situation is also similar in Dannevirke.
Dannevirke Pharmacy owner Hamish Pankhurst said in a Facebook post last night that the demand and uptake has been tremendous and far exceeded expectations.
The Pharmacy is expecting a further shipment of RAT tests today or tomorrow.
Mr Pankhurst said for those who have already received a text to say that their kits are available, and haven’t yet picked them up, they can still do so.
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There are now 218 active COVID-19 cases in Tararua District.
The MidCentral District Health Board reported a further 30 cases on Saturday, and 32 cases on Sunday.
In Central Hawke’s Bay, the total number of active cases is now 110 active cases, with nine reported on Saturday, and 10 on Sunday.
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The Waipawa Butchery Sponsored Central Hawkes Bay Premier cricket side had a resounding seven wicket win over Napier Old Boys Marist on Saturday.
Batting first, NOBM scored 190 for 7.
Blair Tickner, who took 2 wickets for 32 off 10 overs, and Josh Clarkson 2 for 36 off ten, were the best of the Central bowlers.
In reply, an opening partnership of 48 runs between Kyle Gardiner and Angus Schaw got Central off to a good start.
Two further wickets fell quickly and the game was in the balance, before skipper Dom Thompson joined Angus Schaw at the wicket, with the pair batting superbly,
Putting on a 126 run partnership, with Angus Schaw 73 not out and Dom Thompson 65 not out and getting Central through to 192 for 3, off 38.2 overs.
