COVID-19 Update

23/03/2020 – Update

As at today NZ is at Alert level 3, moving to level 4 in 48 hours. Effective immediately, all observed rides, drives, testing and social events will cease until restrictions are lifted.

Look after you and yours and we’ll see you on the other side of this nasty thing.

Kia ora members,
After consultation with National Council and our Safety Officer in particular I am announcing below what we consider a prudent response to the public health risk presented by COVID-19.

CAR/HMV DIVISION:

The risk of community transmission from otherwise healthy appearing individuals cannot be minimised as social distancing is difficult within the confines of a motor vehicle. Observed drives and testing should not be undertaken until Council assesses that the risk of community transmission of COVID-19 is reduced. In assessing that we will have regard to Ministry of Health (MOH) advice.

MOTORCYCLES:

Given that motorcycling is conducted outdoors and social distancing can be maintained, observed rides and tests can be conducted relatively safely provided that MOH hygiene guidelines are followed (washing hands, not touching surfaces, no hand shaking and employing a distance from others). We will continue to assess the level of risk and this position may change if needed (eg France and Italy have banned unnecessary public movement or gathering).

ALL DIVISIONS:

IAM RoadSmart New Zealand will not be conducting group sessions such as observer meetings, training sessions or social events (eg café meets) until such time as the risk of community transmission is reduced. Group social rides may continue, subject to MOH hygiene guidelines. It is recommended that any such events terminate in an outdoor location, reducing the likelihood of community transmission. Again, we will continue to assess the level of risk and this position may change if needed.

Please notify any positive test cases of IAM members or associates to the IAM Safety Officer: safety@iam.org.nz so we can consider these guidelines against any change in risk.

We will review these guidelines regularly and at least at each National Council meeting.

We appreciate that this will be inconvenient and will have an impact on the car division in particular, but this is a serious situation. We do not want to be placing any of our examiners, observers, members or associates at risk.

Thank you for your attention.
Best wishes to all our members, whanāu and friends in this challenging time.

Carey

President
IAM RoadSmart NZ