Dear Residents, Families, Whanau and Friends:

As we return to (new) normal today, I want to take this opportunity to thank you on behalf of the Shalom Court team for your patience, understanding and support during the last three months.

I also would like to take the opportunity to thank all our staff for being so committed to ensure Shalom Court remained COVID-19 free. It has certainly not been an easy time, but their infection control practices and dedication to our residents’ well-being were remarkable throughout the pandemic.

While New Zealand is one of only a few countries to have managed the spread of the virus, COVID-19 certainly emphasized the negative impact of undervaluing aged residential care globally. Evidently, data collected across five European countries attributed up to 57 percent of COVID-19 related deaths to those residing in care homes. Due to the nature of this virus coupled with a high level of co-morbidities in this vulnerable group, it is not a surprise that residential care facilities suffered the burden of this pandemic.

Emotional debates continue to take place about the enduring effects of the strict lock-down, on both personal and fiscal levels. It is my hope that these deliberations will lead to a realistic review and recognition of the 24-hour care requirements needed for frailty care settings.

Shalom Court will continue to employ best practice recommendations, and we should all remain mindful that there is still a risk of another outbreak of COVID-19. Subsequently, as from today, appointments are no longer necessary but we will retain the following daily visiting hours:

10am to 11:30am

1pm to 3:30pm

6pm to 8pm

  • Please do not visit if you display any cold or flu symptoms.
  • Visitors are required to complete the Visitor Log for contact tracing and we will continue to provide hand sanitizer for ongoing infection prevention measures.
  • Our COVID Tracer QR Barcode has been placed on the entry doors if you also choose to use your COVID Tracer App.

Again, thank you all so much for your patience and ongoing support – the team and I look forward to welcoming you back at Shalom Court.

Warm wishes,
Malindy Rose