Northland's iwi-led checkpoint group, Tai Tokerau Border Control, is potentially about to face its biggest challenge yet: Checking the tens of thousands of Aucklanders who want to head north are complying with Covid-19 rules.

For its founder Hone Harawira – a seasoned activist, former MP and now health protector – it's all about doing the right thing.

On December 15, Aucklanders will be let out of the supercity after a record 120-day Covid-19 border closure.

Aucklanders will be allowed to travel if they are either fully vaccinated or have returned a negative Covid-19 test within 72 hours.

Meanwhile, on the second day of freedom for Auckland shoppers and diners, protesters stormed the Newmarket shopping centre, causing an estimated $100,000 loss for retailers as the pre-Christmas trade builds up.

The group was one of several that disrupted malls and events across the country. Newmarket Business Association chief executive Mark Knoff-Thomas said he was disappointed the crowd took out their frustrations on business owners.

Vaccination rates

Ministry of Health data shows 93 per cent of eligible New Zealanders over the age of 12 have had their first dose of the Covid vaccine. Eighty-seven per cent have had their second dose.

Among Māori, 84 per cent of those eligible have had their first dose, and 71 per cent their second dose. For Pacific people, the figures are 92 per cent and 83 per cent.

Global toll

Data from Johns Hopkins University shows more than 265 million people have been infected with Sars-CoV-2, and 5.24m have died. Vaccination efforts are continuing with more than 8.1 billion doses administered around the world.

The United States continues to record the most cases and fatalities - 49m cases and 787,898 deaths.

India and Brazil also have some of the highest infection and death counts - 34.6m infections and 470,530 deaths in India, and 22.1m cases and 615,400 deaths in Brazil.

What should I do?

Anyone who wants to get tested can find their local testing centres by visiting the Ministry of Health website.

Quarantine-free travel from Australia has been suspended.

People should use the Covid-19 tracer app. Some helpful tips on using the Covid tracer app can be found here.

If you are sick, call your GP before you visit, or Healthline on 0800 358 5453.

To avoid contracting and spreading the virus, wash your hands properly, cough and sneeze into the crook of your elbow and throw tissues away immediately.

Reach out, find support from people who care, connect with your community or help a neighbour in need.