Hastings' mayor says they've been preparing for Covid-19 to pop up in their community

A person tested positive during surveillance swabbing while visiting Hawke's Bay Hospital's Emergency Department in Hastings.

They are now isolating at home with close household contacts.

Health officials are looking for links with other cases, and more locations of interest.

Mayor Sandra Hazlehurst says this is a reminder they'll soon be living with more cases in the community.

She says it's important every family has a plan, including to get vaccinated if they aren't yet.