Life in a Managed Isolation Facility

Life at a Managed Isolation Facility

Article by Deb Smalley

Today I am relieving at Novatel hotel at Christchurch Airport – a Managed Isolation Facility. The hotel is very new and I have to say a pleasure visit. The windows are all enormous and give stunning views of either the Port Hills or the Southern Alps. There are 190 souls here currently as ‘guests’ with 180 rooms available for use. There are another five MIF hotels in Christchurch. The New Zealand Defence Force manage operations with four staff living on site 24/7. Another team of four come in daily to lead security. Aviation security and private security provide the bulk of labour for security work in and around the hotel. There is a wellness team whose job it is to, problem solve and offer support and advice. A medical team are here 24/7 also to monitor wellness and care for ill or injured people which is not limited to Covid patients. Then of course there are the hotel staff, management, cooks, cleaners and maintenance people. Lastly the Police - one officer at every hotel working in shifts around the clock. We are here for the power of arrest but only as an absolute last option if all else fails. Diplomacy is the preferred tactic here. Most folks are well behaved, considerate and thankful but there are always those who swim against the current and demand special treatment. It’s not all bad - movies and endless internet. You can get alcohol though there is a sensible daily limit imposed and it can’t be purchased off site. If you don’t care for the daily menu you can order delivered fast food at your cost or have the supermarket send groceries. In fact, within reason, you can order in most things except alcohol or a masseuse. Yes - someone did try that. Exercise consists of running or walking around the hotel behind a tall wire fence. You can just sit and enjoy the sun so long as everybody remains two metres from one another. Even the smokers can get outside for a puff. Guests are Covid tested at day three and again before release. All must remain physically well and return a negative result before being allowed to leave the hotel. A little boring certainly but otherwise these folks are very well cared for and will be delighted when released into the world once more at the end of 14 days. As a reward for my services I too will have to be Covid tested as do all staff who work at MIFs. That should be fun!

NEW BUILD & ALTERATION SPECIALISTS

No detail is too small, We are all about the detail

Phone 027 227 3377 | Email Extrabuild@outlook.com www.extrabuild.co.nz

James Abell Licensed Property Consultant REAA 2008

Call James on Mob 021 843 235 WhyJames.co.nz

Lawns On Par Mowing & Maintenance

www.goughsnurseries.co.nz

022 067 8033 OPEN | Monday - Saturday | 7am - 6pm

Since our founding, McDonald Property Maintenance has been known for quality services, exceptional efficiency and the highest level of professionalism.

No matter what service you’re looking for, we guarantee to not only meet, but exceed your expectations and ensure your full satisfaction.

www.mcdonaldmaintenance.co.nz Your Satisfaction is

Our Priority

MCDonald Property Maintenance is a new & exciting company with enhancing natural habitat at its core.

Fair prices, superior quality and exceptional customer service are guaranteed when you work with us. Professional Services • Landscape Design and Construction • Weed & Pest Control • Lawn Mowing & Gardening • Lawn Care • Windows, Gutters and Outdoor Cleaning • Painting & Staining • Irrigation Installation • General Property Maintenance • Habitat Regeneration

Mobile : 027 412 9408 @mcdonaldmaintenance1