BOP BUSINESS LOCKED DOWN BUT NOT OUT

The Bay of Plenty Business News was founded to provide unique, supportive coverage on what has consistently been one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing regions. The Covid-19 lockdown that began in March is unprecedented and scary.

But the Bay business community’s response has been steadfast and collaborative. We will continue to provide our readers a fresh perspective, both in print and regular digital updates. – DAVID PORTER, Editor

The Bay of Plenty Business News was founded to provide unique, supportive coverage on what has consistently been one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing regions.

We are fortunate compared to some regions and countries – the Bay has been in a sound position economically and has excellent exporting and food producing resources.

I believe the government has made the correct decision to take immediate action, with its decision to lock down everybody except essential industries for at least a month and offer financial relief.

It seems to be those countries that have delayed acting promptly that are suffering higher infection rates and infection levels.

But the reality is that no- body really knows what is going to happen next.
And it is the fear of the unknown that has the potential to do us the most long term damage.

As our writers and columnists note in numerous articles in this issue, there will be major challenges ahead.

But we have also seen great positive responses and some excellent examples of the collaborative business spirit the region is known for.

We continue to produce excellent food – and even toilet paper. That some people continue to stockpile and fight over food and household items is just the unthinking and selfish behaviour we should be avoiding.

I have had the personal misfortune to live through the Global Financial Crisis, the Asian Financial Crisis, SARS, bird flu and sundry other global panics.

Our world has survived everything from the plague to the Spanish flu. Unless this really is the big one, Covid-19 will eventually pass.

We will continue to publish in print and digital form and are working closely with our service providers.

Bay of Plenty Business News will continue to offer our readers a timely and useful perspective as we all adjust our behaviours to deal with Covid-19.

– David Porter