New Zealand Reopens Bars After Two Months Of Lockdown

After three consecutive days of no new coronavirus patient, New Zealand decided to reopen bars and other businesses last Thursday, i.e., May 21st. The country was under lockdown for two months during which many bars struggled to stay afloat but the government decided not to open them early as they were deemed as high-risk spots. The lockdown got shifted from “Level 4” to “Level 2” with Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern saying 'level 2' restrictions will mean retail, restaurants and other public spaces including playgrounds can reopen from Thursday. 'I am announcing that Cabinet agrees we are ready to move into level 2, to open up the economy, but to do it as safely as possible,' Ardern told a news conference. However, businesses will be required to have physical distancing and strict hygiene measures in place.