2021 Rocket Foods New Zealand Rowing Championships - Regatta Not to Proceed at Alert Level 2
On 14 February 2021, the New Zealand Government advised as of 11.59pm on Sunday 14 February, Auckland will move to Alert Level 3 for a period of 3 days. The rest of New Zealand moved to Alert Level 2 for the same period, in place until 11.59pm on Wednesday 17 February. The New Zealand Government also advised that throughout this period, public events or mass gatherings to be held where 100 or more people are together in one place at one time, should not proceed. After the above government announcement was made, the status of the 2021 Rocket Foods New Zealand Rowing Championships moved to under review.
After a thorough assessment of all the challenges faced by Rowing NZ and South Island Rowing to run a major event with an expected gathering of over 1000 individuals, Rowing NZ’s Board of Directors have regrettably made the difficult decision that in accordance with Government advice and guidelines, and in the interest of the welfare, health and safety of the domestic rowing community, that the 2021 Rocket Foods New Zealand Rowing Championships will not proceed under Alert Level 2.
Pending the expected New Zealand Government announcement on Alert Levels in the afternoon of Wednesday 17 February, if the Twizel Region were to return to Alert Level 1, the 2021 Rocket Foods New Zealand Rowing Championships will proceed as a three day condensed regatta.
Rowing NZ’s Board would like to acknowledge the significant efforts undertaken by South Island Rowing to review if the hosting of an event under Alert Level 2 was possible, but are confident in their decision to prioritise the continued health and safety of all New Zealanders throughout a period of time where community transmission of COVID-19 remains a risk to all major event hosts.
Rowing NZ understands the above announcement will have a significant impact on athletes, coaches and supporters, but remain supportive of the Government’s COVID-19 containment initiatives and acknowledge fellow event hosts who have chosen to prioritise public health caution above competitive sport. Rowing is a partner in the wider New Zealand community response, and we must do the right thing by all New Zealanders.
The Meridian Rowing Centre at Lake Ruataniwha, Twizel remains closed, and is not accessible without invitation. If and when the Twizel Region returns to Alert Level 1, there will be free access to the boat park.
Further information will be released as soon as possible regarding boat park activity if the Twizel Region remains in Alert Level 2 beyond 11.59pm tonight.
All updates related to the 2021 Rocket Foods New Zealand Rowing Championships will be shared via the following platforms:
- Direct email to New Zealand Rowing Clubs
- Rowing NZ website
- Rowing NZ App Notifications