Queues at McDonald's drive-thru as Kiwi lockdown relaxes

The country claims to have ‘beaten’ the coronavirus. Now, its citizens flock to fast-food outlets as restrictions ease.

Customers queue at McDonald's drive-through in New Zealand as restrictions ease. Source: AP:Mark Baker

What is the first thing you’ll do when this is over?

It’s a question many have asked while enduring social distancing measures which have forced people inside, businesses to close and placed leisure activities on hold.

So when New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced the easing of COVID-19 rules, it’s clear many had their first meal in mind. A downgrade in restrictions at midnight Tuesday meant McDonald’s would be open for the first time in weeks. So, hundreds of Kiwis flocked to the drive-through.

New Zealand has four levels of restrictions; the country has just moved to level three.

Level four, implemented on March 26, included some of the toughest restrictions in the world. Public spaces, offices and schools were closed. Bars and restaurants were also shut, including for takeaway and delivery.

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced the ease in restrictions on Monday. Source: AAP

The decision to downgrade restrictions had been announced after new cases were in the single figures for several days. On Sunday, Jacinda Ardern said the virus was “currently” eliminated.

"There is no widespread undetected community transmission in New Zealand, we have won that battle. But we must remain vigilant if we want to keep it that way," she said.

After over a month of preparing their own meals, hundreds of Kiwis went to McDonalds drive-through as early as 5am.

News organisation stuff.co.nz reports that lines were so long in Christchurch, the council’s transport operations centre sent traffic management to “help the situation.”

New Zealanders lined up in their cars as early as 5am. Source: AP

Mass gatherings are banned and public spaces remain closed. New Zealanders have been told to stick to their ‘bubble.’

Some non-essential businesses will reopen, allowing around 400,000 people to return to work. Parliament and the courts are preparing to restart while maintaining social distancing.

Other New Zealanders flocked to the beach and fishers will be allowed to cast a line off a wharf only. Most other sports are still banned.

New Zealand has reported more than 1,120 cases of COVID-19, including 19 deaths.