'We're open for business - but we're open differently.”

That's the message from Family Planning chief executive Jackie Edmond who says despite lockdown restrictions they are able to offer a range of services remotely.

It's their mission to ensure vital contraceptive services are provided as widely as possible.

"In just three days we've "seen" around 200 people - they've all spoken with one of our clinicians and where need be, a prescription has been sent to their nearest pharmacy for collection.

Services are also now free for New Zealand residents, says Jackie.

"We know this is a stressful time for many people and we don't want risk of an unplanned pregnancy to add to that stress.”

She says each day they are expanding the number of nurses and doctors working remotely.

Clients are being asked to request appointments online.

'Services we're currently able to offer are pill starts and repeats, prescriptions for the emergency contraceptive pill, abortion information and referral.

'We're able to provide some covering contraception too for those who are due for a depo provera injection or whose implant is due for renewal.”

Early medical abortion service offered through the Tauranga Clinic is continuing.