This morning we presented the petition that 87,269 of us signed to ACT Party leader David Seymour. Due to COVID restrictions, we did it ‘virtually’ on Zoom.

You can watch the short presentation below:

When we first launched this petition just over five weeks ago, the Government had succeeded in keeping the viable option of rapid antigen testing very quiet – partly because they had all but banned its use under the COVID-19 Public Health Response (Point-of-care Tests) Order 2021 (and despite its increasing and effective use overseas).

But then our nationwide polling was released which found significant support from New Zealanders for regular testing to be allowed as an option so that kiwis can keep their jobs. Just 27% were opposed.

It appears that the Government is slowly understanding the benefits of rapid antigen testing with its use being now approved for travellers leaving Auckland, and used for businesses. Air New Zealand will require customers travelling domestically to either be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or test negative before flying.
 
Why is its use not extended to workers, families and worshippers?

The presentation of the petition is just the first step in this campaign. We are looking forward to sharing the next significant step with you in the next couple of days.

Thank you for helping us to unite New Zealand.  

(And thank you to my co-sponsor Dr Christine Clark from Kalandra Education Group.)

Kind regards

Bob McCoskrie

Family First