Auckland lockdown party perfect Delta breeding ground - expert

October 17, 2021
Professor Des Gorman next to image from Auckland house party in Alert Level 3.

An epidemiologist says a lockdown party in Auckland over the weekend could encourage more rule breaking and lead to further spread of Covid-19.

Professor Des Gorman says it could be a step backwards when people in the city are trying to get ahead by increasing the number of people being vaccinated.

“If anyone's infected they're all likely to get infected if they're not vaccinated,” he told 1News.

“We're trying to keep a lid on the virus while we get the last few people vaccinated.”

Gorman says the incident could lead to copycat events.

"Why am I putting up with all that suffering and hardship if no one else is bothering? So the real threat here is a significant shift towards disobedience and a significant shift towards people just giving up, it happened in the UK it happened in Melbourne,” he says.

One of those at the party has since apologised for their behaviour.

His comments come as police have received a number of reports after footage of an Auckland party was posted to social media on Saturday night, also angering people in the locked-down city.

Footage shows a large number of people partying inside, not wearing masks and ignoring social distancing.

"Police have received multiple reports via 105 in relation to this video clip," police said in a statement on Sunday.

Currently in Auckland, no more than 10 people can meet outside as a group, with restrictions.

Vision from the party was posted to Instagram overnight, but has since been deleted by the original source.

It has infuriated people on social media, many who spoke of the restrictions they are facing due to the Covid-19 Delta outbreak which has seen Auckland in lockdown for two months.

"What a slap in the face to everyone doing their part, and those just trying to get home. I hate people," one person commented on the video.

Auckland Mayor Phil Goff also condemned the alleged breach in a statement to NZ Herald.

"After a fantastic Super Saturday that saw record numbers of Aucklanders doing the right thing, it's a shame to see a small minority of selfish people choosing to behave like idiots.

"Parties are exactly the sorts of activities that can lead to a super spreader event.

"But this does not reflect the vast majority of Aucklanders who are continuing to follow the health rules to protect their families and community."

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