New Zealanders Prepare For Lockdown As Prime Minister Declares State Of National Emergency Over Coronavirus Pandemic

WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND - MARCH 25: Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern speaks to media at a press conference ahead of a nationwide lockdown at Parliament on March 25, 2020 in Wellington, New Zealand. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Wednesday declared a State of National Emergency in response to combat the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The declaration allows the Director Civil Defence Emergency Management to direct and coordinate personnel, material and other resources, and provides access to other extra-ordinary powers that will support delivery of an effective and timely response to COVID-19. An Epidemic Notice has also been issued to help ensure the continuity of essential Government business.New Zealand will go into lockdown from 11:59 Wednesday night, as the COVID-19 alert level rises to four. All non-essential businesses will close at that time, including bars, restaurants, cinemas and playgrounds. Schools are closed and all indoor and outdoor events are banned. Essential services will remain open, including supermarkets and pharmacies. The New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern expects measures will remain in place for about four weeks, and has said there will be zero tolerance for people ignoring the restrictions, with police able to enforce them if required. New Zealand currently has 155 confirmed cases of COVID-19. (Photo by Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images)