NZ pubs are now open at alert level 2 -
but they must apply the 'three s's:
seating, separation and single server.
It's news that is being welcomed by the hospitality sector
and a step to a possible return to normality.
Let's cross live to our reporter Irena Smith standing by
at Eat Street Rotorua for all the latest.
The masses are yet to descend upon Rotorua's famous eating spots.
A Maori pub, the Ruck and Maul, says
the owner and patrons are happy the doors are open,
albeit with restrictions, it's a good day.
Quenching the thirst at the local now allowed.
The place is the same but the rules are different.
Some things are still being trialled and workedout.
A welcome return for the locals of Ruck and Maul,
to their place of gathering and entertaining.
While this place does flow with beer, for me,
it's about the food that flows,
along with the establishment being hosts with the most.
They're great at looking after their customers.
The business has felt the impacts of COVID-19
but they hope the community support will help to get them back
into a better position.
It is a sports bar so when the games kick off again
that's when they say maybe it will feel a bit more normal.
While those in the restaurant and bar sector are happy,
Dr Ashley Bloomfield says
it's better to hold off on doing any dancing
for TikTok tonight.
No doubt tonight food and drink will be overflowing,
some of the patrons of Ruck and Maul have said while they can't dance
they will sing
so no doubt there will be guitars out tonight with the singing.
Surely, surely.
And Irena, you'll have to dance in your seat
so you and your seat can have a dance together.
Thank you, Irena, for the update.