An Auckland hairdresser says salons have been thrown into utter chaos by the possibility of a return to work next week.
One hairdresser says it's a logistical nightmare dealing with three months of pent up demand from Aucklanders. (file pic) Photo: AFP
RNZ understands Cabinet will consider a trial run of vaccine certificates on Monday.
It would allow hairdressers and beauty salons to open for double-jabbed clients before the traffic light system starts.
Simone Jones, who is on the board of Hair and Barber, said she has had dozens of calls from "absolutely confused" clients and fellow hairdressers.
She said it is a logistical nightmare having 13 weeks of pent up demand and no start date yet.
Many salons had just started taking December bookings and now clients want earlier appointments.
Jones said she is encouraging clients to get a vaccine certificate, but salons do not yet have the technology to scan and verify people's passes.
A My Vaccine Pass will be required to access events, hospitality, community, sport and faith-based gatherings once the country moves into the traffic light system slated for the end of this month.
The My Vaccine Pass online application system was launched on Wednesday.
The Ministry of Health said the large numbers trying to sign up caused hacking controls to kick in, but that it is now working well and hundreds of thousands of people have registered.
The passes can be requested by logging into the website My Covid Record or calling 0800 222 478.
My Vaccine Pass will have a QR code that can be downloaded onto a phone, stored in an Apple or Google Wallet or printed out in hardcopy.
Covid-19 Response Minster Chris Hipkins said those who were not comfortable using online technology or smartphones would be able to call the 0800 number and have their pass sent to them, and arrangements were also being made for places where people could drop in to have their vaccine passes printed.