HUNTER tourism operators have already felt the heat from Sydney's COVID-19 crackdown, according to the region's peak business body.
Business Hunter said on Thursday that hospitality and tourism had already become unintended collateral damage of the necessary health orders.
Concerns in the state capital have grown, with even NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard in isolation and several state borders slamming shut in the past 24 hours.
"Similar to what occurred in late 2020, a number of the regions businesses are reporting pre-emptive cancelations and deferments of school holiday accommodation and other bookings" chief executive Bob Hawes said.
Mr Hawes said people from Sydney had fallen away, but so too had intra and interstate travellers cautious given NSW case numbers continue to rise.
"There's no doubt these restrictions and the response of the travelling public will have an impact on business in our region, just when many are starting to emerge from this pandemic" Mr Hawes added.
"However, it is important to support the government on the restrictions - these measures take into account the latest health advice and are needed to stop the spread of the virus so we can return to normal as quickly as possible. We all have a part to play by ensuring we comply with the restrictions and get vaccinated as soon as we can".
Mr Hawes urged people to consider a getaway to Port Stephens, the vineyards, Lake Macquarie or other parts of the region in the meantime, and to use Dine and Discover vouchers to help operators offset the lull.
"We are blessed that we have so much within a two hour radius," he said. "We're mad not to take advantage of it if we can."
While the Hunter is not subject to restrictions, several businesses took pre-emptive precautions after the Sydney changes were announced to ensure the virus would not spread in Newcastle.
Jam's Karaoke Bar in Union Street advised patrons on Wednesday, just hours after the rules for Sydney were announced, that it would temporarily refuse patrons who had been in or were close contacts linked to the seven Sydney council areas at the centre of the latest outbreak.
