Canterbury District Health Board says a message sent to staff saying there's no Covid 19 in the region or the South Island - is a fact

A health worker told Stuff - they felt the email saying staff were required to be at work and performing usual duties - was inconsistent with level four rules - because they could work from home.

DHB Emergency Coordination Centre Controller Tracey Maisey says the email wasn't a directive to staff - but it is a fact there is currently no Covid 19 in Canterbury or indeed the South Island.

She says some staff, whose roles can be carried out from home, can do so, with their manager's permission.

But Maisley says all health staff are essential - and it's important clinical staff turn up for their rostered shifts.