Day one of the lockdown and the New Zealand Police are still coming across people who have no idea the country is in lockdown and they are meant to be in self-isolation.

Commissioner of Police Mike Bush said the police would have a very visible presence throughout the country as they engage and educate people about what it means to be in self-isolation.

“Our job is to ensure we keep people safe and well … by being very visible in the community,” he said.

The initial approach by police is to engage, encourage and educate, but if people continue to ignore advice to self-isolate then the police will take steps to make them comply.

“We will take a discretionary approach… but people will be warned, people will be challenged about whether or not they’re an essential service and going about essential things.”

If people continue to breach the lockdown, the police force has the authority to detain them “and put them somewhere they can contemplate the impact of their decisions”, Mike said. 

"We often take people into custody for offences, once they've contemplated life and the impact of their decision, we often let them go without charge." But serious or prolific breaches of the quarantine will be prosecuted, he said.

Mike also clarified what was meant about being able to “get out for exercise” during the alert level four lockdown.

He said the key was to keep it local. People could drive to their local park for exercise, or bike their nearby trails but driving an hour up the coast was not acceptable. Driving aimlessly around the streets was discouraged. “Don’t be driving willy nilly all over town. If it’s nearby for exercise that’s ok,” he said.

NZ Police acting southern commander Darryl Sweeny said the public can be reassured that local police will be out on the region’s streets keeping people and property safe.

“Don't be alarmed if you see police or other emergency services at your supermarket, we are there to reassure you and keep you safe,” Darryl said. “We are confident that Otago residents understand the importance of following the instructions and remaining in their bubbles.”

Emergency Management Otago’s Civil Defence group controller Richard Saunders added that the Otago Civil Defence, Fire & Emergency and St John staff will continue to do their jobs and respond to the needs of our community throughout this lockdown period. 

People still travelling to get to their homes or safe locations have until midnight tomorrow (Friday March 27) and police will get them there under supervision if necessary, Mike said.

Travellers still arriving into the country are also being closely questioned to ensure they have a place to go which is fit for the four week lockdown. Of the 360 passengers who arrived at Auckland airport this morning, Mike said, eight had COVID-19 symptoms and were put into quarantine, and 160 did not have adequate plans for self-isolation and they were escorted to secure accommodation. Police will follow-up on these people to ensure they continue to comply.

Mike said if family or friends were driving to collect people returning from overseas they were reminded only one person would be permitted to greet the returning travellers and if any presented symptoms they would be quarantined.

“Those with a plan and a place to go, we will help you get there,” he said.

PHOTO: RNZ