Holiday-makers are encouraged to use local vaccination clinics during their break to ensure that their vaccinations are up to date.
File image. Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
The Southern DHB has a [www.southernhealth.nz/COVID19/vaccine#xmas list of clinic opening hours on its website] including whether walk ins, bookings or both were accepted.
Its Covid-19 Vaccine Rollout Programme lead Karl Metzler said people needing a first dose, who were due for a second dose, or a booster shot, were encouraged to seek out a local option.
"As people are more mobile over the holiday season, it is important that holiday makers take advantage of local vaccination clinics at their holiday location to ensure that their vaccinations are up to date," he said.
People who had their second dose six months ago were eligible for a booster shot so they could stay protected, he said.
They were encouraged to book online at bookmyvaccine or by calling 0800 282926.
Some people who had not been vaccinated might be feeling anxious or have questions, Metzler said.
There were safe spaces at vaccination clinics to talk with a trained clinician, he said.
He urged people to be prepared for the possibility that their whānau or household was exposed to Covid-19 over the holiday break, by having a plan for if they were away from home.