Canterbury people without COVID-19 symptoms who wish to be tested for the virus can visit a pop-up testing centre at 170 Orchard Road near Christchurch Airport from 10am to 4pm this Saturday 8 August.

The temporary testing facility will have capacity for drive-through with testing through car windows, or walk-ins. For those without their own transport the nearest bus-stop is on Harewood Road, route 125.

The CDHB is asking the public to follow staff instructions on arrival and visit early in the day, in case of high demand.

Those who are tested will be sent results via text message but it may take up to 72 hours to receive results.

If you have COVID-19 symptoms (any acute respiratory infection with at least one of the following symptoms: new or worsening cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, stuffy or runny nose, lost sense of smell – with or without a fever) contact your General Practice team or call Healthline on 0800 358 5453. Most GP teams are offering testing if you have these symptoms.

 If you have symptoms and are not registered with a GP team you can attend the testing centre run by Whānau Ora at 250 Pages Road between 9am to 1pm, seven days a week. You do not need an appointment to attend.  

 If you are unwell and need to see a doctor you should call your usual GP team for advice 24/7. For general health information visit healthinfo.org.nz