February 24, 2022

 

 

Does NZRL require players to be fully vaccinated?

 For NZRL run and/or sanctioned events and competitions, players, staff, volunteers and spectators need to be fully vaccinated, yes.

Vaccines are necessary for these events and competitions to run under the Covid-19 Protection Framework.

 

Is NZRL mandating vaccinations for players under 12?

No. Players under 12 are treated as vaccinated. They are still counted toward the capacity limit of an event or gathering but do not contribute to the vaccination status of an event or gathering.

 

Do I need to be fully vaccinated to play any rugby league in New Zealand?

No. If you are unvaccinated, you can still partake in rugby league activity (e.g. 9s, training) subject to a 25 person gathering limit.

Multiple gatherings of up to 25 can take place (players and team management being one gathering and spectators a separate gathering); however, these must be defined by 2m spaces (2m) and must NOT mix.

Zones, districts, clubs and venues reserve the right to require proof of vaccination at any organised gathering or event within their respective regions.

 

What if there is only one person who is not vaccinated?

 If someone is not vaccinated, the gathering they are involved in will need to abide by the 25 person gathering limit.

 

Do spectators need to be vaccinated?

For NZRL run and/or sanctioned events and competitions, yes. Vaccines are necessary for these events and competitions to run under the Covid-19 Protection Framework.

 

Can attendees use a negative Covid-19 test to attend an event or gathering where vaccine passes are required?

 No. A negative test is not a substitute for vaccinations for events or gatherings. If there are unvaccinated people at your event or gathering, then you must follow the rules and limits for where vaccine passes are not used.

 

Can one-day or multi-day Tournaments take place at Red if everyone is vaccinated?

Vaccinated tournament days or weekends involving multiple matches can take place if the total number of players participating is no more than 100.

OR

Multiple gatherings of up to 100 are taking place, but they are defined by 2m spaces and do not mix. Each group of 100 needs to remain as is for the duration of the event.

If multiple matches against different opposition teams involve over 100 people mixing, this event should not go ahead.

 

Are staff included in the gathering limits?

 No. Team staff, coaches, referees and event staff/volunteers at organised community sport gatherings are classed as workers and do not count towards gathering limits.  However, they still contribute to the vaccination status of an event or gathering.

 

Can gatherings in defined spaces share the same entrances, toilets and changing facilities?

It is okay for multiple gatherings in defined spaces to use the same entrances and share toilets/changing facilities so long as the risks of intermingling groups is limited as far as possible.

Queuing or congregating should not take place in common areas. Masks should be worn in common areas or facilities accessed by gatherings (like shared toilets).

The Ministry of Health also recommends ensuring frequent cleaning of bathroom facilities and drinking fountains. Clubs could encourage members to bring water bottles filled from home and provide reminders about how to use drinking fountains most hygienically.

 

What if I have a vaccine exemption?

In the rare case a person meets the specified exemption criteria, the application is submitted to the temporary medical exemptions panel run by the Ministry of Health. If the application is granted, then a copy of the exemption will be provided in written or electronic form, noting the expiry date of the exemption, which is for up to six months.

If you’re given a temporary medical exemption, you will see a record of this in My Covid Record. When your pass is scanned at venues, your exemption status will not be disclosed to the business. You will be able to gain access like everyone else.

 

When is it mandatory to wear a face mask?

Unless you are eating, drinking or exercising, you need to wear a mask. Players and referees must wear face masks before and after a game, not during.

 

Is it okay if I just use a bandana or scarf or a towel as a face covering? 

No. As of 11.59 pm, Thursday 3 February, in the Red setting, alternative face coverings such as bandannas, scarves and t-shirts are no longer allowed to be used instead of a face mask.

 

What if I have a mask exemption?

You will need to present your Mask Exemption Card or letter from your doctor prior to entering the grounds. We know some people have a disability or health condition where they may not be able to wear a face mask safely or comfortably.

Mask Exemption Cards are issued by the Disabled Persons Assembly NZ (DPA). While at the facility, please carry your Mask Exemption Card with you in case you are questioned by concerned members or staff.

 

What do we do if there’s a positive case at our gathering or event / it becomes a location of interest?

At Phase 3 (as of 25 February), close contacts no longer need to isolate and locations of interest will not be published.

Contact tracing will focus on identifying high risk contacts of cases. If someone at your gathering or event tests positive for COVID-19, they will be supported to notify people they may have spent time with while infectious.

Notified close contacts should monitor symptoms for 10 days. If anyone develops symptoms they need to get a test, and should isolate until they get their result.

 

What do I have to do if I test positive for Covid-19?

You are required to isolate for 10 days. You will be contacted by the Ministry of Health by text and directed to complete a Covid-19 Contact tracing form online. This will assist to target places of interest you went to or were at while infectious. You will be given instructions and will need to advise contacts so they can get tested. For example, if you were at training, you will need to notify your team management and club who will contact fellow players and parents. If you have the NZ COVID Tracer app this will assist in identifying and notifying.

 

If I test positive for Covid-19, what happens to my whānau or household?

If you live with whānau or have flatmates or people living at your address, they are household contacts. Household contacts must isolate for 10 days. They are required to get a Covid-19 test on day 3 and day 10 of isolation.

 

What if I am identified as a close contact of someone who is infected with Covid-19 but don’t live at the same address?

At Phase 3 (as of 25 February), close contacts no longer need to isolate. If you get a notification from your workplace, school or through the NZ COVID Tracer app that you are a Close Contact, you should monitor your symptoms for 10 days. If you develop symptoms get a test, and you should isolate until you get your result.

If you live with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, you are considered a Household Contact and will need to isolate for 10 days. You must get a test on Day 3 and Day 10 of your isolation. If you develop symptoms you should get a test sooner. If you are a Household Contact and you test positive, you will need to isolate for 10 days.

Please note Government guidance is subject to change in response to the Omicron outbreak.

 

10 November 2021

Today, Tāmaki Makaurau has moved to Alert Level 3.2, where contact training and rugby league activity remains suspended.

All contact sports involving the sharing of equipment cannot be played at this level.

At Alert Level 3.2, outdoor gatherings have increased to 25, only if outdoor activity can be done safely. Face coverings need to be worn while keeping a 2-metre distance from those in your gathering.

Outdoor training and exercise classes are permitted if you can maintain a safe distance without coming into contact with those around you.

Clubrooms and other indoor recreational facilities remain closed.

NZRL encourage all those in our rugby league communities to get vaccinated against Covid-19; for more information, please visit https://karawhiua.nz/where-to-get-vaccinated/

Continue to use the NZ Covid Tracer app with Bluetooth tracing turned on, and stay home if you are unwell. Call your doctor or Healthline on 0800 358 5453 for advice about getting tested.

NZRL will continue to update you with the latest information, subject to government updates.

08 October 2021

There are no crowds permitted at any NZRL National or Youth Competiton games for the remainder of the four week season.

A blanket no crowd policy across the country is the safest option due to the continuously changing nature of Alert Levels for different regions participating in our competitions.

Our priority is to keep our players and communities safe while ensuring our competitions can continue.

We understand this is frustrating for those residing in regions currently at Alert Level 2, and we apologise for the inconvenience this causes.

However, some venues and local authorities within these regions still operate at a higher Alert Level despite eased gathering restrictions.

The current unpredictability of Alert Levels across the country means a blanket no crowd policy remains our best option in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all involved in our competitions.

This coming Monday, we will provide further detail on Waikato and Northland teams due to Northland’s move to Alert Level 3 at 11:59 pm tonight.

Any person feeling unwell or presenting cold, flu, or COVID-19 symptoms should immediately contact their doctor or Healthline on 0800 358 5453.

03 October 2021

With Hamilton and Raglan at Alert Level 3, the following changes have been made to Round 2 of the NZRL National and Youth Competitions this week.

YOUTH COMPETITION CHANGES

Friday 8 October – Upper Central Stallions 16s v Wellington 16s Rotorua International Stadium POSTPONED

Friday 8 October – Upper Central Stallions 18s v Wellington 18s Rotorua International Stadium POSTPONED

National Youth Competition games for Northland, South Island, Wellington and Mid Central 16s and 18s can still go ahead in Rotorua, Bay of Plenty – as travel has been arranged directly to Rotorua Airport, nothing goes via Auckland or Hamilton. 

You can view this weekend’s National Youth Comp games here – https://www.youtube.com/skysportnext

SKY SPORT NATIONAL MEN’S COMPETITION CHANGE

Saturday 9 October – Waikato Mana v Upper Central Stallions, Davies Park Huntly, 12pm POSTPONED

SKY SPORT NATIONAL WOMEN’S COMPETITION CHANGE

Sunday 10 October – Canterbury v Upper Central Stallions, Nga Puna Wai Christchurch, 12pm POSTPONED

NZRL will release further information regarding rescheduled games in due course.

Any person feeling unwell or presenting cold, flu, or COVID-19 symptoms should immediately contact their doctor or Healthline on 0800 358 5453.

20 September 2021

In light of today’s Covid-19 announcement, Auckland will move to Alert Level 3 Tuesday, September 21 at 11.59 pm for at least two weeks. All rugby league activity remains suspended at Alert Level 3.

Aucklanders are instructed to stay home in their bubble other than for essential personal movement, and despite the level change, keep bubbles tight.

A bespoke Level 4 lockdown has been announced for those in the Mangatangi region. Anyone who has visited or lived there since September 8 has been asked to isolate and monitor symptoms. All rugby league activity in the region is suspended until further notice.

For those in Alert Level 2, gathering limits have changed to allow a maximum of 100 people.

For those OUTSIDE AUCKLAND, Alert Level 2 means rugby league activity can re-commence ONLY if clubs and facilities can abide by all of the below health requirements.

  • Rugby League activity must abide by the maximum 100 person gathering limit.
  • Physical distancing is required at all times; this is mandatory for those not participating on the field (2 metres).
  • Facemasks are mandatory for all those not participating on the field.
  • A contact tracing register must be kept at all clubs and able to be accessed quickly. QR codes need to be clearly displayed on entry and exit points.
  • All participants are required to scan in when attending or participating in a rugby league event, (i.e. training, games, tournaments) using the NZ Covid Tracer app with Bluetooth tracing turned on.
  • Participants should wash and dry their hands before and after training and playing; equipment should be sanitised and dried before and after playing. No one should be participating (or leaving home) if they show any signs of being sick, displaying symptoms of COVID-19, awaiting a test, or if required to self-isolate.

Remember to use the NZ Covid Tracer app with Bluetooth tracing turned on.

Any person feeling unwell or presenting cold, flu, or COVID-19 symptoms should immediately contact their doctor or Healthline on 0800 358 5453.

NZRL will continue to update you with the latest information, subject to government updates.

Thank you for your ongoing resilience and cooperation.

06 September 2021

In light of today’s Covid-19 announcement, those outside Auckland will move to Alert Level 2 tomorrow, Tuesday 7th September at 11:59 pm.

Auckland remains at Alert Level 4 for another week until Monday, September 13, all rugby league activity in the region remains suspended.

For those OUTSIDE AUCKLAND, Alert Level 2 means rugby league activity can re-commence ONLY if clubs and facilities can abide by all of the below health requirements.

  • Rugby League activity must abide by the following gathering limits:
    • 50 person gathering limit for indoor venues, i.e. Clubrooms, pre/post-match functions
    • 100 person gathering for outdoor venues, i.e. Rugby league field, tournaments
  • Physical distancing is required at all times; this is mandatory for those not participating on the field (2 metres).
  • Facemasks are mandatory for all those not participating on the field.
  • A contact tracing register must be kept at all clubs and able to be accessed quickly. QR codes need to be clearly displayed on entry and exit points.
  • All participants are required to scan in when attending or participating in a rugby league event, (i.e. training, games, tournaments) using the NZ Covid Tracer app with Bluetooth tracing turned on.
  • Participants should wash and dry their hands before and after training and playing; equipment should be sanitised and dried before and after playing. No one should be participating (or leaving home) if they show any signs of being sick, displaying symptoms of COVID-19, awaiting a test, or if required to self-isolate.

Aucklanders are instructed to stay home in their bubble other than for essential personal movement.

Remember to use the NZ Covid Tracer app with Bluetooth tracing turned on.

No regional travel is allowed across boundaries, except for essential workers.

Any person feeling unwell or presenting cold, flu, or COVID-19 symptoms should immediately contact their doctor or Healthline on 0800 358 5453.

NZRL will continue to update you with the latest information, subject to government updates.

Thank you for your ongoing resilience and cooperation.

03 September 2021

The Government’s extension of Alert Level 4 in the Auckland region for another 2 weeks until at least 14 September has now forced the cancellation of the remainder of the season for all Auckland Rugby League grades.

The decision which has been endorsed by the ARL Board of Directors – means all competition grades

from U13 up to the SAS Fox Memorial premiership are now cancelled, with mini/mod (U6-U12) grades having already been cancelled last week.

No winners will be declared for any competition grade.

Auckland Rugby League CEO Greg Whaiapu said as well as running out of time to safely complete the season before the impending New Zealand Rugby League National Competitions and the start of the summer sports season, the ARL has an obligation to prioritise the health and safety of all participants.

“It’s unfortunate news to be delivering and an outcome none of us wanted,” Whaiapu said.

“In making this decision we considered, among other things, the fact that teams have not been able to complete contact training for what is currently several weeks due to the restrictions in place, and therefore would be put at a higher risk of suffering injury if asked to return straight into games”.

“While we pushed the proposed return to play dates out as far as we could, the reality is there is no longer enough weeks left to safely complete our season either.

“At this point I’d like to acknowledge the work of our clubs and the people involved with them, through what has been another challenging year for everyone.”

This cancellation applies to club grades only and at this stage does not impact planned Auckland Rugby League National representative games or Kiwi Tag modules scheduled for later in the year.

30th August 2021

In light of today’s Covid-19 announcement, Auckland remains at Alert Level 4 for another two weeks until at least Monday, September 13.

Northland is set to move to Alert Level 3 at 11:59 pm this Thursday, subject to negative test results.

Those south of the Auckland boundary will move to Alert Level 3 tomorrow at 11:59 pm, for at least one week, with cabinet set to review progress, Monday September 6.

Under both Alert Level 4 and Alert Level 3, all rugby league activity (playing, contact and non-contact training) is suspended.

New Zealanders are instructed to stay home in their bubble other than for essential personal movement.

Those in Level 3 ONLY can expand household bubbles to reconnect with close family/whanau.

Face masks are mandatory for anyone using public transport for essential travel, visiting supermarkets and essential services.

Remember to use the NZ Covid Tracer app with Bluetooth tracing turned on.

No regional travel is allowed across boundaries, except for essential workers.

Any person feeling unwell or presenting cold, flu, or COVID-19 symptoms should immediately contact their doctor or Healthline on 0800 358 5453.

NZRL is monitoring the situation closely and will continue to update you with the latest information, subject to ongoing Government updates.

We thank our rugby league communities for their ongoing resilience and understanding.

24th August 2021

In light of yesterday’s Covid-19 announcement, this is a reminder that all rugby league activity remains suspended under current Level 4 restrictions.

Auckland will remain at Level 4 until at least Wednesday, September 1st. The remainder of New Zealand remains at Level 4 until at least Saturday 28th August, subject to ongoing government updates.

All rugby league activity under Alert Level 4 (playing, contact and non-contact training) is suspended.

NZRL is monitoring the situation closely and will continue to update you with the latest information, subject to ongoing Government updates.

New Zealanders are instructed to stay home in their bubble other than for essential personal movement.

Face masks are mandatory for anyone using public transport, visiting supermarkets and engaging in essential services.

Remember to use the NZ Covid Tracer app with Bluetooth tracing turned on.

Any person feeling unwell or presenting cold, flu, or COVID-19 symptoms should immediately contact their doctor or Healthline on 0800 358 5453.

23 August 2021

NZRL is sad to announce the 2021 New Zealand Rugby League Secondary Schools Tournament scheduled to begin Monday, August 30th in Auckland has been called off due to the current Delta Covid-19 outbreak.

This is following the announcement from School Sport NZ cancelling all sanctioned events through until September 6th. NZRL is working with stakeholders to explore all options; however, under these current conditions, the tournament cannot go ahead.

We understand this is hugely disappointing for everyone involved and apologise for the inconvenience caused; however, safety and wellbeing remain paramount.

We encourage everyone to continue to follow Covid-19 protocol so collectively we can return to the rugby league fields when it is safe to do so again.

We thank all our rugby league communities for their ongoing patience and understanding.

12 March 2021

With the Auckland region moving to Alert to Level 1 at midday today, crowds are now permitted at all NZRL National 20s games.

NZRL is encouraging clubs and all involved in the game to continue to maintain a high level of awareness and hygiene at all rugby league activities, including trainings and games. 

While the mandatory Government requirements are significantly reduced under Level 1, clubs are still required to display NZ COVID Tracer QR posters and should have a manual tracing log available too. 

All rugby league participants are encouraged to keep track of where they have been. 

Good handwashing practices and coughing and sneezing into elbows, not hands, remain important. 

Any person feeling unwell should stay home and avoid rugby league activities, and if they present with cold, flu or COVID-19 symptoms should contact their doctor or Healthline on 0800 358 5453 to see if they need a test.

05 March 2021

Rugby league activity in Auckland may resume as of 6.00am on Sunday, March 7, provided the Level 2 requirements set in place by the New Zealand Government can be followed.

Although the remainder of the country will move to Alert Level 1 on Sunday, where gathering restrictions are eased, please note there are still NO CROWDS permitted at this weekend’s NZRL National 20s match between Central Districts vs. South Island at Jerry Collins Stadium in Wellington.

NZRL will provide a further update on the National 20s crowd restrictions for the remaining rounds next week.

Under Alert Level 2 restrictions, which Auckland will move to from 6am on Sunday, gatherings for sport are permitted if limited to groups of 100 or less and physical distancing of two metres for those not on the field is observed.

This applies to any form of rugby league activity, including trainings, games and other gatherings.

At all Alert Levels, electronic and manual contact tracing must be available and placed prominently at the entry point to any facility (indoor and outdoor). Click here to download and learn more about the NZ Covid Tracer app.

Anybody displaying symptoms of sickness, awaiting COVID-19 test results or linked to locations of interest for recent COVID-19 cases of sickness should not participate (or leave home).

High standards of hygiene must be adhered to at any rugby league activity or training, including regular and thorough washing and drying of hands, with hand sanitiser made readily available and used at regular intervals.

If any club, team or individual is not able to comply with the requirements listed below they must not resume rugby league activity.

Click here for full Ministry of Health guidelines and advice. 

  • Regularly disinfect all surfaces that you can touch, particularly the rugby league ball
  • All participants must regularly wash and dry hands with soap/detergent and or hand sanitiser eg before and after training or games, after using the toilet and after coughing or sneezing
  • Avoid using changing rooms. Come to the ground ready to train or play and return home immediately after trainings or games.
  • Clubs and teams must provide adequate hand sanitiser and hand washing amenities with soap or detergent at the facility and ensure signage is visible encouraging good hygiene
  • Cough into elbow, avoid touching face
  • Stay home if you feel unwell, are awaiting a COVID-19 test or have visited a location of interest relating to a recent COVID-19 case
  • Don’t share water bottles and do not use team water bottles
  • Avoid spitting and coughing
  • Ensure any facility has extensive signage, NZ Covid tracer scan codes and information

NZRL is monitoring the situation closely and will continue to update you with the latest information, subject to ongoing Government updates.

28 February 2021

As of 6am this morning the Auckland region is back at Alert Level 3 for the next seven days meaning all rugby league activity (training and playing) in the region is suspended.

The remainder of New Zealand is at Alert Level 2 where gatherings are restricted to groups of 100 and physical distancing of two metres for those not on the field is observed.

As result, the NZRL National 20s game between Northland and the South Island scheduled for 2pm at Nga Puna Wai today will have no crowds.

NZRL will provide an update regarding the remainder of the National 20s schedule in the next 24 hours.

Any person feeling unwell should stay home and if they present with cold, flu or COVID-19 symptoms should contact their doctor or Healthline on 0800 358 5453 to see if they need a test.

Click here for full Ministry of Health guidelines and advice. 

Level 2 requirements (Not including Auckland)

  • Regularly disinfect all surfaces that you can touch, particularly the rugby league ball
  • All participants must regularly wash and dry hands with soap/detergent and or hand sanitiser eg before and after training or games, after using the toilet and after coughing or sneezing
  • Avoid using changing rooms. Come to the ground ready to train or play and return home immediately after trainings or games.
  • Clubs and teams must provide adequate hand sanitiser and hand washing amenities with soap or detergent at the facility and ensure signage is visible encouraging good hygiene
  • Cough into elbow, avoid touching face
  • Stay home if you feel unwell, are awaiting a COVID-19 test or have visited a location of interest relating to a recent COVID-19 case
  • Don’t share water bottles and do not use team water bottles
  • Avoid spitting and coughing
  • Ensure any facility has extensive signage, NZ Covid tracer scan codes and information

February 23 2021

With the Auckland region having moved to Level 1 as of February 23, NZRL is encouraging clubs and all involved in the game to continue to maintain a high level of awareness and hygiene at all rugby league activities, including trainings and games. 

While the mandatory Government requirements are significantly reduced under Level 1, clubs are still required to display NZ COVID Tracer QR posters and should have a manual tracing log available too. 

All rugby league participants are encouraged to keep track of where they have been. 

Good handwashing practices and coughing and sneezing into elbows, not hands, remain important. 

Any person feeling unwell should stay home and avoid rugby league activities, and if they present with cold, flu or COVID-19 symptoms should contact their doctor or Healthline on 0800 358 5453 to see if they need a test.

 

17 February 2021

Rugby league activity in Auckland may resume as of February 18 provided the strict Level 2 requirements set in place by the New Zealand Government can be followed.

Under Level 2 restrictions, which Auckland will move to from midnight on February 17, gatherings for sport are permitted if limited to groups of 100 or less and physical distancing of two metres for those not on the field is observed.

The requirements outlined here apply to any form of rugby league activity, including trainings, games and other gatherings.

Both electronic and manual contact tracing must be available and placed prominently at the entry point to any facility (indoor and outdoor). Click here to download and learn more about the NZ Covid Tracer app.

Anybody displaying symptoms of sickness, awaiting COVID-19 test results or linked to locations of interest for recent COVID-19 cases of sickness should not participate (or leave home).

High standards of hygiene must be adhered to at any rugby league activity or training, including regular and thorough washing and drying of hands, with hand sanitiser made readily available and used at regular intervals.

If any club, team or individual is not able to comply with the requirements listed below they must not resume rugby league activity.

 

Click here for full Ministry of Health guidelines and advice. 

  • Regularly disinfect all surfaces that you can touch, particularly the rugby league ball
  • All participants must regularly wash and dry hands with soap/detergent and or hand sanitiser eg before and after training or games, after using the toilet and after coughing or sneezing
  • Avoid using changing rooms. Come to the ground ready to train or play and return home immediately after trainings or games.
  • Clubs and teams must provide adequate hand sanitiser and hand washing amenities with soap or detergent at the facility and ensure signage is visible encouraging good hygiene
  • Cough into elbow, avoid touching face
  • Stay home if you feel unwell, are awaiting a COVID-19 test or have visited a location of interest relating to a recent COVID-19 case
  • Don’t share water bottles and do not use team water bottles
  • Avoid spitting and coughing
  • Ensure any facility has extensive signage, NZ Covid tracer scan codes and information

NZRL is monitoring the situation closely and will continue to update you with the latest information, subject to ongoing Government updates.

Please refer to your appropriate District and Club for more specific information on upcoming competitions and fixtures.

14 February 2021

In the wake of Auckland moving to COVID-19 Level 3 for the next three days, all rugby league activity in the region is suspended until midnight on Wednesday, February 17.

This includes all club trainings and activities.

The Auckland Rugby League office will be closed on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, but staff will be working from home and be available. Click here to contact.

Visit www.covid19.covt.nz for more Government information.

March 24, 2022

As of 11:59 pm this Friday, there will no longer be crowd restrictions at vaccinated outdoor rugby league events.

Those who hold a My Vaccine Pass (MVP) can attend this weekend’s National 20s, and Women’s Premiership matches at Trusts Stadium in Auckland.

MVPs will be checked at all NZRL events until April 4th to allow for unlimited gatherings.

From April 4th, vaccine passes will no longer be required; however, venues may still choose to use them in some cases.

It’s important to note masks are not mandatory for outdoor events but still encouraged, and there is no longer a need to scan in.

Indoor gatherings have increased to 200, but seated hospitality and face mask requirements remain for indoor settings.

Despite the ease in restrictions, we still encourage all in our rugby league communities to practise care in the community. Any person feeling unwell or presenting cold, flu, or COVID-19 symptoms should isolate immediately and get tested.

We thank all of our communities for their patience and co-operation; we look forward to seeing you back at the rugby league fields soon.

 

 

Does NZRL require players to be fully vaccinated?

Up until April 4th, for NZRL run and/or sanctioned events and competitions, players, staff, volunteers and spectators need to be fully vaccinated, yes.

Vaccines are necessary for these events and competitions to run under the Covid-19 Protection Framework.

 

Is NZRL mandating vaccinations for players under 12?

No. Players under 12 are treated as vaccinated. They are still counted toward the capacity limit of an event or gathering but do not contribute to the vaccination status of an event or gathering.

From April 4th vaccine passes are no longer required

 

Do I need to be fully vaccinated to play any rugby league in New Zealand?

From April 4th vaccine passes are no longer required

No. If you are unvaccinated, you can still partake in rugby league activity (e.g. 9s, training) subject to a 25 person gathering limit.

Multiple gatherings of up to 25 can take place (players and team management being one gathering and spectators a separate gathering); however, these must be defined by 2m spaces (2m) and must NOT mix.

Zones, districts, clubs and venues reserve the right to require proof of vaccination at any organised gathering or event within their respective regions.

 

What if there is only one person who is not vaccinated?

From April 4th vaccine passes are no longer required

 If someone is not vaccinated, the gathering they are involved in will need to abide by the 25 person gathering limit.

 

Do spectators need to be vaccinated?

Up until April 4th, for NZRL run and/or sanctioned events and competitions, yes. Vaccines are necessary for these events and competitions to run under the Covid-19 Protection Framework.

 

Can attendees use a negative Covid-19 test to attend an event or gathering where vaccine passes are required?

From April 4th vaccine passes are no longer required

No. A negative test is not a substitute for vaccinations for events or gatherings. If there are unvaccinated people at your event or gathering, then you must follow the rules and limits for where vaccine passes are not used.

 

Are Australian vaccine passes acceptable proof of vaccination?

From April 4th vaccine passes are no longer required

Overseas COVID-19 vaccination certificates and passes can’t be used as proof of vaccination within New Zealand. People in this situation need to apply to have their overseas vaccinations recognised in New Zealand by submitting evidence of them.  You can find all the information here: https://www.health.govt.nz/covid-19-novel-coronavirus/covid-19-vaccines/my-covid-record-proof-vaccination-status/covid-19-overseas-vaccinations-and-my-vaccine-pass#evidence

 

I am not able to be vaccinated due to a recent covid infection, can I still play in a tournament or competition where vaccine passes are checked?

From April 4th vaccine passes are no longer required

It is recommended that you wait at least 4 weeks after you recover before getting the first or second dose.  An application for exemption will need to made and provided the your local district our competition manager.  You can find the information here on how to do that https://www.health.govt.nz/covid-19-novel-coronavirus/covid-19-response-planning/covid-19-mandatory-vaccinations/covid-19-exemptions-mandatory-vaccination

 

Can gatherings in defined spaces share the same entrances, toilets and changing facilities?

It is okay for multiple gatherings in defined spaces to use the same entrances and share toilets/changing facilities so long as the risks of intermingling groups is limited as far as possible.

Queuing or congregating should not take place in common areas. Masks should be worn in common areas or facilities accessed by gatherings (like shared toilets).

The Ministry of Health also recommends ensuring frequent cleaning of bathroom facilities and drinking fountains. Clubs could encourage members to bring water bottles filled from home and provide reminders about how to use drinking fountains most hygienically.

 

What if I have a vaccine exemption?

From April 4th vaccine passes are no longer required

In the rare case a person meets the specified exemption criteria, the application is submitted to the temporary medical exemptions panel run by the Ministry of Health. If the application is granted, then a copy of the exemption will be provided in written or electronic form, noting the expiry date of the exemption, which is for up to six months.

If you’re given a temporary medical exemption, you will see a record of this in My Covid Record. When your pass is scanned at venues, your exemption status will not be disclosed to the business. You will be able to gain access like everyone else.

 

When is it mandatory to wear a face mask?

From March 25 face masks outside are no longer mandatory but recommended. Face mask requirements remain for indoor settings.

 

Is it okay if I just use a bandana or scarf or a towel as a face covering? 

Alternative face coverings such as bandannas, scarves and t-shirts are no longer allowed to be used instead of a face mask. From March 25 face masks outside are no longer mandatory but recommended. Face mask requirements remain for indoor settings.

 

What if I have a mask exemption?

From March 25 face masks outside are no longer mandatory but recommended. Face mask requirements remain for indoor settings.

You will need to present your Mask Exemption Card or letter from your doctor prior to entering the indoor premisis. We know some people have a disability or health condition where they may not be able to wear a face mask safely or comfortably.

Mask Exemption Cards are issued by the Disabled Persons Assembly NZ (DPA). While at the facility, please carry your Mask Exemption Card with you in case you are questioned by concerned members or staff.

 

What do we do if there’s a positive case at our gathering or event / it becomes a location of interest?

At Phase 3 (as of 25 February), close contacts no longer need to isolate and locations of interest will not be published.

Contact tracing will focus on identifying high-risk contacts of cases. If someone at your gathering or event tests positive for COVID-19, they will be supported to notify people they may have spent time with while infectious.

Notified close contacts should monitor symptoms for 10 days. If anyone develops symptoms they need to get a test, and should isolate until they get their result.

 

What do I have to do if I test positive for Covid-19?

You are required to isolate for 7 days.  You will be given instructions and will need to advise contacts so they can get tested. For example, if you were at training, you will need to notify your team management and club who will contact fellow players and parents. If you have the NZ COVID Tracer app this will assist in identifying and notifying.

 

If I test positive for Covid-19, what happens to my whānau or household?

If you live with whānau or have flatmates or people living at your address, they are household contacts. Household contacts must isolate for 7 days. 

 

What if I am identified as a close contact of someone who is infected with Covid-19 but don’t live at the same address?

At Phase 3 (as of 25 February), close contacts no longer need to isolate. If you get a notification from your workplace, school or through the NZ COVID Tracer app that you are a Close Contact, you should monitor your symptoms for 7 days. If you develop symptoms get a test, and you should isolate until you get your result.

If you live with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, you are considered a Household Contact and will need to isolate for 7 days. If you develop symptoms you should get a test sooner. If you are a Household Contact and you test positive, you will need to isolate for 10 days.

Please note Government guidance is subject to change in response to the Omicron outbreak.

 

NZRL – Level 2 GET READY (final)

With New Zealand moving to Alert Level 2 tonight, New Zealand Rugby League stresses the fact this does not mean a return to rugby league activity yet.

NZRL asks the rugby league community to adhere to a ‘Get Ready’ period for a minimum of two weeks, subject to further government update on numbers permitted for grassroots sport.

This is in light of Sport NZ today confirming that the 10-person gathering limit now applies to all community sport.

With this in mind, there will be NO rugby league activity, training (contact and non-contact) or playing permitted during this ‘Get Ready’ period.

During the ‘Get Ready’ period we recommend clubs take the time to plan the measures that need to be taken to ensure their facility is able to prepare for a safe return to rugby league.

These measures include what ‘must’ be done such as contact tracing, physical distancing & hygiene and sanitation requirements. We will release further information on the mandatory requirements in the next 24 hours.

NZRL is looking at a three-phased approach return to rugby league:

  • Get Ready
  • Prepare to Play
  • Return to Play

This approach is based off the Government recommendation of a considered return to community sport and is supported by all six winter codes; Basketball, Football, Hockey, Netball and Rugby Union.

We will advise in due course when we can enter the ‘Prepare to Play’ phase and what this looks like in regards to training. Timings will be subject to government updates on numbers permitted for grassroots sport.

Once again, we thank you for your patience and understanding during this time and will provide further information on the phased approach in due course.

 

Ngariri Nuku Lee Waitokia from Eastern Eagles Rugby League club down in Christchurch has been recognised as a standout volunteer as part of Pirteks’ – Communities through Covid initiative.

Nuku is an invaluable volunteer of the Eastern Eagles rugby league club and a woman of many roles from team manager to committee member to Club Secretary. However, it is her most recent work during this time of uncertainty which deserves some special recognition.

The harsh unemployment realities of a country in lockdown due to Covid-19 were fast approaching, and it was clear the vulnerable families in lower-income areas would be impacted the most.

So Nuku along with the newly appointed Club President (Zion Taumiti) created a Covid-19 response team made up of coaches and managers from across the club. They created a survey for each player and their families asking what their situation and main concerns were during this time.

Nuku took on the responsibility of ensuring all the administration was complete concerning the club survey. She ensured every single player and their family members were included in a database and that their needs were categorised accordingly to allow the club to act efficiently with goods, services and support.

The database totalled 60 families with as least five or more in each family from infant to elderly, about three-quarters of those who responded to the club’s survey said they needed more food and were feeling isolated.

Without her organisation, the club would not have been in a position to do the important family drops that covered all areas of Christchurch. Eastern Eagles rugby league club distributed family packages to about 30 families over 30 over Easter, which included colouring in sets and easter eggs.

“This is what Pirtek loves about Rugby League and the Rugby League community. There are always people that will go out of their way to help others, people that take a selfless approach to life in general,” says Pirtek General Manager Chris Bourke.

“In times like these, its great people like Nuku, along with Zion and the Eastern Eagles Rugby League Club, that stand out to support the community and do this without the expectation of recognition. They are simply there to help others in the Rugby League family and beyond.

“Nuku is a well deserved recipient of the Pirtek Communities Through COVID Award. Congratulations.”

Nominate someone you feel deserves some recognition here – https://nzrl.co.nz/community/ourcommunitiesthroughcovid/

Each person nominated will go in the draw to win a Kiwis merchandise prize package. NZRL in liaison with Pirtek will promote some of the best nominations on NZRL channels.

While the New Zealand Government’s announcement on guidelines for COVID-19 Alert Level 2, for if and when it is announced that the country will move to this level, is a positive step NZRL remains vigilant in the fight against the global pandemic with the health and safety of our communities remaining the number one priority.

As it stands we are still in COVID-19 Alert Level 3, therefore all rugby league activity (training or playing) remains suspended until further notice.

Under COVID-19 Alert Level 2, sporting activity can re-commence but only if strict public health and hygiene measures are in place.

NZRL, like other codes, will take the time to prepare and ensure all measures and systems are in place for a safe and structured return to play for our communities, when appropriate.

It is crucial we take the time to get this right, so New Zealand’s hard work is not at risk of being undone, and our communities feel safe and secure to play our game again.

NZRL will provide further information in due course regarding what rugby league looks like at Alert Level 2 as well as return to play timelines. What is absolutely clear is that will not be immediately following any announcement by the Government to move to Alert Level 2.

We thank you all for your patience and understanding during this time.

Primary focus on clubs and regional organisations with $15m Community Resilience Fund

Sport NZ has created a $25 million package to provide further short-term relief for organisations at all levels of sport and active recreation. The funds have been made available through savings achieved from the reprioritisation of Sport NZ’s work programme in the wake of COVID-19, as well as the drawing down on cash reserves.

Today’s announcement follows an initial package of support for Sport NZ and High-Performance Sport NZ partners announced in early April. This provided financial certainty for National Sport and Recreation Organisations, Regional Sport Trusts others, with funding commitments totalling $70 million per annum. Partners were provided with flexibility on how these funds could be used to reflect the challenging circumstances resulting from COVID-19 through until 30 June 2021.

The second tranche of support announced today has a focus on providing relief for struggling local and regional sport and recreation organisations. This relief will be provided via a $15m Community Resilience Fund.

“Play, active recreation and sport have a key role in maintaining individual health and wellbeing, bringing our communities together and keeping these communities strong,” says Sport NZ CEO Peter Miskimmin.

“It is vital that organisations at all levels of our sector remain viable and are there when play, active recreation and sport can fully resume, and we believe we have structured this relief package in a way that will maximise its benefit at all levels of the sector for the greatest possible good.”

“Clubs and regional organisations are the heartbeat of our sector but have been among the hardest hit by COVID-19, particularly through the loss of Class 4 gaming revenue and membership fees and they need support now more than ever,” says Peter Miskimmin.

The Sport NZ Community Resilience Fund opens on Monday 11 May and will be administered through New Zealand’s 14 regional sports trusts due to the strength of their networks deep into their local sport and recreation communities. Eligible organisations can apply for a maximum of $1,000 for clubs and $40,000 for regional bodies.

Also included in Sport NZ’s $25 million relief package are:

  • A partner support fund ($6 million) to help Sport NZ and HPSNZ investment partners maintain critical roles and business functions which are at risk due to COVID-19
  • An exceptional system support fund ($1 million) to protect key national organisations who are not normal recipients of Sport NZ investment
  • A physical activity fund ($3 million) to promote play, active recreation and sport opportunities to those who most need it (e.g. people who are less active, disabled or live in high deprivation areas)

Further details on these three funds will be announced over the coming weeks.

Sport NZ also continues to provide expert business capability support to its partners in areas such as finance, human resources and technology, as well as providing free employee wellbeing services and support in accessing the Government’s COVID-19 Wage Subsidy Scheme.

More information on new $25 million short-term relief package and Sport NZ’s wider response to COVID-19 is available at sportnz.org.nz.

 

Useful PDFs:

Community Resilience Fund Factsheet

Public FAQ

Due to the ongoing safety concerns regarding the Covid-19 outbreak, New Zealand Rugby League regrets to advise that all community rugby league competitions, tournaments and trainings run by NZRL Zones, Districts and Clubs have been postponed until Saturday, May 2nd, effective immediately.

Given the fast-changing situation, these guidelines and advice are subject to change.

Fo now, restrictions do not prevent clubs from operating on their facilities, however we urge clubs to adhere to Ministry of Health regulations in this regard; these include:

  • Staying away from the club if you are experiencing flu like symptoms
  • Regularly washing hands with soap (recommended) or an antibacterial wash
  • Covering coughs and sneezes
  • Bringing and using personal drink bottles (not sharing)
  • Limiting spitting
  • Cleaning surfaces regularly (e.g. hit shields, balls etc)
  • Limiting person-to-person contact (conduct any essential meetings online whenever possible)

We are continuously liaising with government agencies and will continue to update you with the latest information.

We appreciate this is an unprecedented step being taken for community rugby league; however, this decision has been made solely with the safety and wellbeing of our players, staff, volunteers, whanau and the wider community in mind.

We understand this is an unfamiliar time for us all, but rest assured we are doing all we can to ensure our communities remain safe so we can return to play as soon as possible. NZRL thank you for your continued support and understanding as we work through this together over the coming weeks.