Tairawhiti’s vaccination rates edge higher

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

Tairawhiti's vaccination rates are increasing, with the region expected to hit the 90 percent double-jabbed milestone in mid-January.

Latest data shows 84.3 percent of the eligible population now double-jabbed.

Of the general eligible population, 90.6 percent have had one dose of the Covid-19 vaccination.

For the eligible Maori population, 86.7 percent have had one dose and 77.5 percent are double-jabbed.

Hauora Tairawhiti spokeswoman Di Akurangi said based on the current trajectory the region would hit the 90 percent double-jabbed target on January 18.

The double-jabbed rate for Maori should be reached by January 28.

“Service providers have been working in areas of high Maori population to provide easy access to vaccinations,” Ms Akurangi said.

“We have seen the roll-out of vaccination street parties help on Tyndall Road, Davy Place, Palmerston Road, and Atlee Place.

“We have incorporated vaccinations in parks, and provided on-site workplace vaccinations.

“We know that these methods have assisted with increasing the rates for Maori. We also know that more can be done come 2022.”