You will no doubt all be aware of the unprecedented situation that is currently unfolding in New Zealand and around the world in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly the recent announcements from the New Zealand government on travel restrictions. We anticipate that the government will make further announcements in relation to large gatherings in the near future.     

The New Zealand Institute of Landscape Architects Tuia Pito Ora facilitates membership gatherings and functions at a national and branch level and has functions planned for the near future.  It is our absolute priority to make sure that we do not put our members or their families and close contacts at any further risk from the spread of COVID-19 through our activities and gatherings.

In response to the latest development, including the recent announcements that took effect yesterday in relation to all inbound travelers to New Zealand needing to self-isolate for 14 days, we have made the following decisions on upcoming events:

• The Presidents Cocktail Function planned to be held in Auckland on 7 May will be postponed.  A later date may be set, likely to be in the second half of the year, depending on the timing of peak infection and further restrictions and effects on our community in New Zealand.  It is possible that the event will be cancelled, depending on future developments.
• The NZILA Tuia Pito Ora 2020 AGM will still take place in Auckland on 7 May at 1.30pm at the ASB Waterfront Theatre.     
• Other planned roadshows and CPD events may be affected by future travel and gathering restrictions.  We will work with Branches, as required, to look after the health and wellbeing of our members and to ensure that government restrictions and protocols are followed.

Many of us work in large office environments, in collaborative teams with other organisations and travel regularly for our work.  Please keep up to date with announcements, restrictions and advice in relation to COVID-19 and keep yourself, your co-workers and your families safe.