The Labour Government has been forced to defend the decision to grant four Silver Ferns players travel exemptions to leave Auckland and contest the upcoming Taini Jamison Trophy against England in Christchurch.
It follows public outrage online, as others struggle to leave the city under strict Alert Level 4 protocols.
But for the world champion Ferns, they're keen to make the most of the opportunity they've been given.
"We're so grateful that those Aucklanders have been allowed out," says midcourt star Sam Winders.
New Zealand's Minister for Sport and Recreation today clarified why the Ministry of Health granted the four players an exemption in the wake of severe public backlash.
"Given that it was an international sporting event, it represented a very low risk as all four people had been tested," Grant Robertson said.
Robertson confirmed the dispensation was given on the basis of business, rather than for personal reasons.
"It's supporting Netball New Zealand in one of the most important matches they are playing this year."
And that's a decision not lost on the Silver Ferns.
"A lot of people are doing it tough," says coach Dame Noeline Taurua.
"All we can do is make sure we're as clean as possible and grateful for being out there - It's a definite privilege for us."
And with the off-court issues resolved, the side is now focused on making the most of their time in camp.
Although Taurua realises the short timeframe means it won't all be rosy against the visitors.
"I predict we are going to be underdone when we do get on court against England.
But also grateful for the chance to do so in this current COVID climate.
