Face Coverings Will Be Mandatory on Auckland Public Transport from Next Week
The new orders will come into force on Monday.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern revealed today that Auckland will remain under Alert Level 3 lockdown until 11.59pm on Sunday, 30 August. The rest of the country will stay at Level 2 until at least Sunday, 2 September.
Given the recent community transmission the country has seen on public transport, Cabinet has decided to move to mandating the wearing of face coverings on public transport for Level 2 and above. The new orders will come into force from Monday.
"This isn't a decision we took lightly. But we know that masks protect you, and the people around you, and we now have a real-life example of that. They limit the chance of COVID-19 spreading in places where it is often harder to distance yourself, and to trace people." she said.
Ardern added that Aucklanders should continue to wear masks when outside of their homes. The Ministry of Health recommends that all households should be prepared by having a supply of masks for each household member.
Face masks can be either fabric reusable (washable), or a single use disposable face mask. The latter can be purchased online, from supermarkets, hardware stores or pharmacies — although we recommend you call ahead — or you can make your own fabric reusable face masks.
Ardern has also previously advised that DIY interpretations such as a bandana or scarf can also be used if you do not have a mask. The Ministry also recommends approximately four fabric reusable face masks per family member.
Further information about mandatory face coverings will be released later in the week.
Head to the New Zealand Government's Ministry of Health website for the latest mask and COVID-19 advice.
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