Level 3 Anticipation
Yesterday it was announced that Auckland would move from level 4 to level 3 at midnight tonight. While there are lots of things to be excited about with this move - which I’ll get to below - I want to first say that I’m not thrilled with loosening restrictions right now. For the first time, I feel like the government’s decisions are based more on politics than health concerns, and that doesn’t feel good. The transparency with information means that I know that cases have been stagnant all week and that there are unlinked cases popping up almost every day. If a month ago one unlinked case sent the whole country into level 4, I don’t understand why 13 unlinked cases (where we stand on Monday) aren’t a big deal anymore. This feels like the beginning of New Zealand throwing in the proverbial towel and preparing to join the rest of the world with covid. And I’m pretty angry about that. I hope I’m wrong about this, and the government has lots of information that justify this move, but no amount of take out can make up for the anxiety and mental work required to navigate covid in the community, let alone the anguish if we actually get sick.
But on to the good stuff…
We’ve been in level 4 since August 17 - five weeks ago - and while this is pretty short in the grand scheme of the pandemic, it is still a long time to be at home with few outside resources. Level 3 opens up a whole new world of opportunities. Goods beyond those deemed essential can be sold. Stores can open for click and collect, and there are takeaway options from restaurants. Here’s what I can’t wait to do under level 3:
Coffee - I can almost taste my first coffee shop coffee. While we’re pretty good at making them at home (and if you’ve seen some of my vlogs you know I’ve even trained the kids to make a coffee for me) there is something deeply satisfying about getting a proper cup of coffee/cappuccino/flat white from my favorite local shop.
I learned a valuable lesson during our last transition from level 4 to level 3 about ordering a coffee on the first day they are available: order in advance and online. There was a wait of over and hour because people were so desperate for their “cuppa” on our first day in level 3. Since reusable mugs aren’t permitted in level 3, I don’t mind ordering in advance and using one of the disposable cups.
Home project supplies - During lockdown there is lots of time for home projects, but no way to get supplies if you run out. Bunnings and Mitre 10 (the Home Depot and Lowe’s equivalents in New Zealand) aren’t open to the general public during a level 4 lockdown. If you are a tradesman working in an emergency capacity you can get click and collect supplies, but if you’re not - you are out of luck. In level 3 the general public can do click and collect, and we started a cleaning and oiling project on the house’s exterior. We desperately need more wood oil before the strong Southern Hemisphere sun bakes everything.
Books - On Tuesday the 17th when the single delta case was announced, one of my stops during the mad afternoon dash before the inevitable lockdown was announced was to the library to stock up on books. I’ve got half a book left unread at this stage in lockdown. The library is closed during level 3 and 4, but bookstores will be able to do click and collect for all books - not just educational ones that are deemed essential - once we’re in level 3. Yes, I know I can get eBooks through a number of platforms, but I prefer paper especially for reading at night before bed.
Takeaway food - Anyone else totally sick of cooking every single meal? I am eagerly anticipating ordering food from different restaurants for perhaps five days straight once that is an option. I can’t wait for level 3 so someone else can cook for a change. (Confession: Jon took on some cooking duties this lockdown and made some delicious meals that are outside of my usual menu. I can’t complain too much. Still, I am ready for some outside food and fewer dishes!)
What are you looking forward to once we move to Level 3? And any recommendations for restaurants that have particularly delicious takeaway options?
