Pop-up COVID-19 vaccination clinics in Waitaki community
People throughout the Waitaki can get a vaccination in their own neighbourhood over the coming week thanks to pop-up clinics being held in the district.
The walk-in clinics are organised by the Southern COVID-19 Vaccine Programme’s Dunedin Outreach Team in partnership with local providers and do not require a booking. Free refreshments will be available for those getting vaccinated. The clinics will be held in the following locations:
- Maheno: Maheno Rugby ClubMonday, 29 November, 1pm-6pm
- Tokarahi: Tokarahi Hall,Tuesday, 30 November, 10am-1pm
- Ngapara: Ngapara Rugby Club, Tuesday, 30 November, 3pm-6.30pm
- Hampden: Hampden Hall, Wednesday, 1 December, 1pm-7pm
- Duntroon: Duntroon Hall, Wednesday, 1 December, 11am-4pm
- Omarama: Omarama Community Hall, Thursday, 2 December, 11am-7pm
People needing their first or second doses are encouraged to attend. While the Waitaki District is tracking well at 80.7% of eligible people fully vaccinated and 88.7% with one dose, six rural Waitaki areas are at least 5% lower than the district average. Southern DHB COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout Programme Lead, Karl Metzler says that holding targeted clinics outside the main centres has worked well elsewhere.
“We’re happy to be able to deliver this option to people living in rural Waitaki so people have easy access to the vaccine.”
Anyone is welcome to have a chat with clinical staff before getting a vaccination.
“We understand that many of the people who have not yet received their vaccinations may be feeling anxious or have questions,” Mr Metzler says. “There will be a safe space at the clinic to talk with a trained clinician or you can call 0800 28 29 26.”
Mr Metzler thanks the Waitaki District Council, the Oamaru Pacific Island Community Group, Tumai Ora Whānau Services, North End Pharmacy and Kurow Medical Centre for their hard work to support the clinics.
Media enquiries and interview requests: SDHB Communications, communications@southerndhb.govt.nz.