"The Ministry of Health (MOH) have advised us to stand down 70 team members who work our day processing shift at the Auckland Operations Centre (AOC) in Highbrook. They have been asked to return home and go into self-isolation until Saturday 29th August. 

As we have let you know, two positive tests were returned from team members on this shift earlier in the week. Since then over 300 people who work at the AOC have been tested. 

While no additional positive tests have been returned at this stage, a further two team members are unwell and the MOH have now advised us that the day shift are considered ‘close contacts’. 

We wanted to let you know as soon as possible that this has happened. Our strict hygiene measures remain in place (2m physical distancing, mask wearing and additional safety and hygiene precautions) and in addition to the deep clean of the AOC last weekend, another deep clean is taking place today. 

The MOH have advised that it is safe for other shifts to continue work and we will replace those on the day shift to ensure that we can continue to deliver with minimal disruption.  

At this stage, we do not anticipate any additional delays beyond the two days for parcels in the Auckland area as previously advised. Mail is not affected.  We will keep you informed if this guidance changes.   

This is unsettling for those most directly affected, and all our teams at the AOC, and their families.  Our highest priority is the health and wellbeing of our people and we will continue to work closely with health officials on our response. 

We wanted to again move swiftly to make you aware of this and will update you with any further information as it becomes available. Please also continue to check our website for the latest. 

Stay well and safe.   

Regards,