Four new cases of COVID-19 was reported in Auckland earlier this week, ending a 102-day streak without a local infection in New Zealand.

The government responded by increasing the COVID-19 alert level to level three in Auckland and level two for the rest of the country, introducing a three-day lockdown from 12pm 12 August, until midnight 14 August, in the city.

Lockdown restrictions include city residents being asked to stay at home, large gatherings being banned and non-essential businesses, such as casinos, closing its doors.

The casino operator said while its Auckland casino and entertainment facilities were to be closed, hotels at the property will remain open to accommodate existing guests, while social distancing and health and safety measures were being implemented at its Hamilton and Queenstown venues.

SkyCity CEO Graeme Stephens said: “SkyCity is fully complying with this latest update from the New Zealand Government. SkyCity is well prepared to respond quickly to these changes and is in a strong financial position to withstand the financial impacts of these temporary restrictions.”

The Auckland casino reopened under strict measures on 14 May after closing on 23 March, but resumed normal operations on 9 June, after coronavirus restrictions in the country were lifted.

SkyCity’s Adelaide casino remains unaffected by the latest restrictions and will continue to operate with current health and safety measures in place.