We have just come out of thirty-three days in Level 4 lock down and have two more weeks (subject to review) at the slightly less restrictive Level 3.  All Kiwis can be very proud of achieving a huge reduction in infection rates of COVID-19.  Many of our Pacific Island countries have also had stringent lock downs and have been either able to remain COVID-19 free or flatten the curve of infection.

 

This success has come at a huge economic cost and disruption of normal social interaction.  Rotarians across the district have played their part by meeting virtually, finding other ways to stay connected and keep members engaged.  It is also encouraging that many clubs have been able to reach out to those in need in the community and donate money and time while observing the lock down requirements.

 

Over half of our clubs are meeting by way of Zoom or Skype and others are in contact via telephone trees, emails and newsletters.  It’s wonderful to be able to use technology and many of us have been on a steep learning curve.  As an example of the use of technology, my club will have its annual debate with the Rotary Club of St Johns by way of Zoom next Monday.  I have attended many club meetings by Zoom and if you send me your club meeting link I will do my best to attend as a guest.

 

Now with growing confidence there will be a new normal post COVID-19.  More board and committee meetings will be held using Zoom and as an example, Rotary International is organising a virtual convention in June which we will all be able to attend from the comfort of our homes (see separate story on the website and in the newsletter for the website link – operative from 1 May US CDT).  It is also interesting to see some clubs attracting new members who prefer this type of meeting to the more traditional meetings.  Rotary has established new club operating models over recent years and these provide new opportunities to attract members.