Local businesses are preparing to enter the ‘orange’ setting in the new Covid Protection Framework tomorrow (Friday December 3).

Most businesses are adapting to the new requirements, but some businesses have decided to close their doors, while others will operate with more restrictions to accommodate people who are not vaccinated.

Local cafe owner (and Wānaka Community Board member) Chris Hadfield said while he doesn’t “necessarily agree” with vaccine mandates, he and his staff have agreed to follow the rules.

“Not only that but we have engaged in conversation with all our regular customers (vaxxed or not) and we are united in our approach. In addition, if we follow other countries then this will be temporary and the new normal will come into full swing.

Let’s stop this divisive talk and work through this together,” he said.

Some businesses, such as the food truck Dripping Bowl, have decided to welcome unvaccinated customers and will operate contactless pickups in accordance with the framework. 

Dripping Bowl co-owner Jesse Herbert  said on social media they chose to serve everyone regardless of vaccination status and their staff supported the decision.

Dripping Bowl operated contactless pickups during Level 3 lockdown in May last year.

Southern District Health Board medical officer of health Susan Jack told the Wānaka App businesses which choose to accommodate unvaccinated people are “absolutely within their rights”.

“Because we’re going into orange if people choose not to use the vaccine pass there will be certain restrictions on how they operate,” she said.

Others, such as the Tarras Country Cafe and The Body Garage (pilates and yoga studio and massage therapy clinic) have chosen to close their doors rather than comply with the restrictions.

Under orange, gymnasiums and other member-based businesses like dance studios and sports coaching, can only operate with vaccinated staff and clients.

The Fit Collective has advised its members its facilities are open to vaccinated members but will ensure it will continue to offer sessions remotely via Zoom.

“We will be brainstorming ideas as to how we can help keep you connected if you choose not to vaccinate,” Fit Collective’s Kim Parry said in a message to members.

Kim said it has been a tough couple of years in business.

“Like other businesses I have spoken to there is a huge financial impact of losing customers/ members/clients along with the emotional impact of having to implement this system. 

It is not an easy time for anyone regardless of what side of the fence that you are on. I really feel for those who have chosen not to vaccinate, however I also feel a responsibility to those who have chosen to vaccinate and think that they also deserve respect in the decisions that they have made.” 

PHOTOS: Wānaka App