More than 1000 COVID-19 vaccinations administered in one day

5 January 2022

Demand was high across Taranaki today for COVID-19 vaccinations, driven by those wanting to get their booster shots as soon as possible.

Bevan Clayton-Smith, Taranaki COVID-19 Vaccination Programme senior responsible officer, estimated more than 1000 vaccinations would be administered across the region by the time clinics closed.

“It was certainly back to work with a vengeance after a well-deserved break for our vaccination teams, but they handled the situation well with wait times around the half hour mark at most,” he said

“All our partner-providers were also very busy and responded admirably to demand.

“Getting your booster shot is vital for maintaining your body’s immunity to the COVID-19 virus, including the Delta and Omicron strains, so we are pleased that so many people are coming in to receive one.”

The Government announcement just before Christmas reducing the amount of time between the second vaccination dose and the booster shot from six months to four has meant more than 15,000 Taranaki people will become eligible throughout January.

Mr Clayton-Smith said that there was enough vaccine to go around, so there was no need to rush to clinics and extend waiting times unnecessarily.

“We have plenty of capacity in the programme, and plenty of vaccine, so everyone who wants a booster shot will receive one.”

To avoid longer wait times, he advises against being on clinic doorsteps at 9am and to time your visit for the quieter periods over lunchtime and in the afternoon.

People will be able to book their booster shot appointment from January 17 on BookMyVaccine, or by calling 0800 28 29 26 (8am-8pm, 7 days)