Chief photographer Warren Buckland on the job before the lockdown. Photo / Supplied
Warren Buckland – Chief Photographer
Despite an eerie feeling at times, it's almost business as usual as we drive around to our various assignments. The major difference is the ever-decreasing volume of traffic – vehicular and pedestrian.
The people happy to be photographed are kept at a safe two-metre distance from our cameras and we're in a routine of keeping our gear, and ourselves, germ free.
But, not being able to get a daily coffee fix, go to the gym, play sport or simply go out when you want to is finally sinking in.
Reporter Christian Fuller working outside at his Waimarama home. Photo / Supplied
Christian Fuller – Reporter
Living rurally in Waimarama has its obvious benefits of open space and a sea breeze, but working from home is made difficult by the lack of phone service and internet connection.
Needing to remind my household not to use the internet between 8am and 4pm is a timely reminder of the struggles of working remotely.
Having worked from the sofa, armchair, kitchen table and on the deck, it is fair to say I haven't yet found a permanent work station.
Photographer Paul Taylor is out on the job during the lockdown. Photo / Paul Taylor
Paul Taylor - Photographer
It was a strange first couple of days as they were quiet, with very few cars, cyclists or dog walkers about.
As the days move on, there's more cars on the roads – perhaps because people are topping up on groceries for another long weekend at home - but it's still strange passing parks, beaches and cafes that are devoid of life.
The police have been amazing, very helpful and understanding that we have a job to do.
On a positive note too, getting around is easier with the lack of traffic on the roads.
Communities Reporter Shannon Johnstone said the addition of houseplants to get desk helped brighten the scenery. Photo / Supplied
Shannon Johnstone – Communities Reporter
I miss the office and my workmates, but I appreciate being able to go to the fridge whenever I like.
At first, I found it tricky to adjust to working at home, as I find it easier going to work in a separate space.
It soon dawned on me that if I'd done that at university instead of doing assignments from my bed, I may have got things done a lot quicker.
Before the lockdown began, I got a plug-in mouse and keyboard and I've added houseplants to brighten things up.
One downside is the cell service: from my desk, it isn't great. I might be the only person in their 20s using a landline.
Business Reporter Blair Voorend is making the most of his one-bedroom apartment. Photo / Supplied
Blair Voorend – Business Reporter
Working from home is certainly a lot different when you are confined to a small, one-bedroom apartment in Napier, compared to an open office space.
With just a laptop, working can be tricky, but I stripped my work desk, salvaging my keyboard and mouse, making things a little easier.
One benefit is being able to crank the music up loud and sing along during the day, and look out the window and watch the occasional person walk through the empty streets.
And when it rains and the dark, overcast skies hang over, it feels good to be at home.
