The government has announced new mask wearing guidelines under the ‘red’ traffic light setting.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced that masks must now be worn at food and drink businesses, close proximity businesses, events and gatherings.
She also said the changes do not apply to non-public facing workplaces, swimming pools, and gatherings where people have the exclusive use of the premises.
Face coverings must now be “an actual mask”. This means no more scarves, bandanas, or t-shirts pulled up over the face.
A big new rules for schools is that students Year 4 and up must wear a mask at school and on school and public transport.
Ardern said the science has been updated and these changes will help save lives and give time to get more of the population boosted.
