A Hunter New England Health spokesperson said "the increasing number of COVID positive cases in our community, the walk-in clinics pose an additional risk".

"Drive-through clinics are currently operating across East Maitland, South Maitland and Telarah, where people can be tested safely in their vehicle and there is reduced risk of exposure," the spokesperson said.

"These clinics are located within a within a five minute drive from the hospital and have increased capacity."

For those without vehicles, walk in appointments will be accommodated at the drive through clinics as required.

"We remain committed to working with our private partners to ensure vital testing services are widely available and we thank them for their support," the spokesperson added.

"Testing clinic staff from these clinics will be re-directed to assist with the frontline healthcare response."

A full list of testing clinics is available on the NSW Government website nsw.gov.au/covid-19/health-and-wellbeing/clinics