If you spent level three doing a bit of online retail therapy, there may be a little more of a wait than anticipated to enjoy your new purchases.

With retail stores only able to operate online, postal services have been run off their feet trying to keep up with a huge increase in deliveries, receiving 200 new packages to deliver every minute.

New Zealand Post said the increased demand on its services in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic had seen staff working 24/7 at 11 locations across New Zealand. While most parcels were being delivered in two to three days, the company warned customers some were being delayed by up to five working days.

People have been encouraged to contact NZ Post if their package is delayed for longer than five working days, but customers have had trouble getting through to them both via phone and email.

One local postie said that work has been flat out, and that they are working hard to get everything to customers as soon as possible.

To try and remedy the situation, NZ Post has added 200 more delivery drivers and vehicles to their fleet who have been delivering seven days a week. 

The physical reopening of retail stores is expected to lessen the strain on the delivery system, so if you are waiting on a package sit tight, it should arrive soon.