How soon the country drops to Alert Level Three could determine how well businesses bounce back

The Government will announce this afternoon whether lockdown will continue past midnight tonight for most of the country.

Auckland will remain in lockdown until at least midnight on Tuesday.

But Wellington Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive Simon Arcus says Alert Level Three is just as much about preparation, as it is about being able to operate again.

He says it gives businesses the ability to start their supply chains again and fill up the fridges and freezers with stock.