The food rush has begun
Photo: Kate Durie.
We can all recall the long queues for fast food after Level 4 lockdown in 2020, and just like last year, the hospo sector is prepared for the eager kiwis out seeking a long-awaited feed.
South of Auckland, large chains like McDonald’s, KFC, Burgerfuel and Dominos, as well as many smaller Waikato businesses, are open and serving customers.
To adhere to level 3 protocols, drive-thru and contactless payments are operating across most food stores. Many companies are also offering a limited menu to ensure minimal crossovers within the kitchen and to maintain social distancing for staff.
Burgerfuel stated that “staff have undergone COVID-19 specific online safety training and where possible will be executing touchless food preparation.”
Other protocols include requiring QR code sign-ins for all customers and queue control in order to reinforce social distancing during level 3.
Photo: Kate Durie.
Demand was high in some areas, including local business Gumdrops Desserts on Killarney Road who offered ‘Midnight Munchies’ from 12:01 am after Level 3 ticked over. “When we opened, we had a full days’ worth of orders within a 10-minute window, causing the app to crash. After we switched it off the orders kept flowing in” says owner Donna. “We definitely felt for our customers whose orders were cancelled and refunded by Uber, their orders have been left aside for today.”
A social media poll conducted with 35 tertiary students showed 37.5 definitely intended to purchase takeaway food on the first day of level 3, with 9% undecided.
Hamilton student Emelia Jennings says she is “not desperate for Maccas, but it may be nice”. She may do a drive-by and if the queue isn’t too long, she will get some, but “won’t be lining up if there are a lot of cars”.
While it is great to have big chain fast food back, Waikato Food Inc is reminding people about the importance of supporting local businesses during this time.
They have published a guide here:
