upon us, many folk are staying home and are avoiding travel where possible; businesses in our area are going to take a hit.

On a typical Saturday, thousands of people flock to the Matakana Markets to buy local produce, but with people self-isolating for a variety of reasons, this number will drop. This will affect the stall holders in the markets as well as the stores around the village who will be hit by the drop in foot-traffic

These small businesses rely on those weekend and holiday visitors. The government has announced plans for financial support for those businesses struggling due to the virus, but this will only provide a temporary solution. If the pandemic lasts well into next year as University of Otago public health professor Michael Baker has said it will, then they're in for a rough year. "Anyone who says it will be over by Christmas hasn't thought about it enough," Baker said. "I mean which Christmas, this one, or Christmas next year?"

Supporting small businesses has never been more important than now. If you want to support your favourite local business, here are a couple of ways you can do so. 

The obvious option is to buy from them. If you are trying to self-isolate, many businesses have online stores that you can shop from and they will deliver. If you're having trouble picking something out, get a gift certificate to use at a later time. 

Spread some good publicity on social media. Offer your support in a way that is quick, easy and free. Give your favourite business a quick shoutout and encourage others to buy from them.

The many great independent businesses in the area need our support, and now more than ever. Don’t count them out when you're shopping; get good products with the added bonus of supporting local.