Pip King, clinical nurse manager for the Covid-19 vaccination programme for the Lakes District Health Board, is hoping to get through 1000 vaccinations in Taupō as part of Saturday’s ‘national day of action’.

“We’re doing about 500-600 a day at the moment, but it can vary,” she said.

“The school holidays have increased numbers, we have seen a lot of young people, people on holiday, people that have been vaccine hesitant until now.

“The current environment has encouraged people to come.”

She was hoping that the day would involve a lot of first timers.

“No bookings, just roll up.”

The Totara St Covid hub will be open 8am-6pm and coffee early in the morning, a barbecue running at lunch and Mr Whippy turning up would ensure a party atmosphere.

“There will also be lots of giveaways from some very generous local businesses. The idea is to make it a fun day.

“It would be lovely to get teenagers and young people coming, especially those who are at work during the week – come with your friends or in a group.”

Taupō’s Unichem Mainstreet Pharmacy, has also been doing vaccinations, with a number of the town’s pharmacists assisting, and in Tūrangi on Saturday Tūwharetoa Health and Pihanga Health will run a drive-thru vaccination clinic 9am-4.45pm in the car park opposite the Health Centre.

Nationally the Government is aiming to vaccinate 100,000 on Saturday.

Credit: Stuff.co.nz