From Monday everyone over the age of 12 will have to wear a mask or face covering on public transport and planes under alert level 2 or higher - but not on the school bus.
File image. Photo: 123RF
Passengers in taxis and using rideshare services are advised - but not required - to wear face coverings, but drivers must.
People with a disability or physical or mental health condition that makes covering their face unsuitable are exempt, as are those aged under 12.
Minister of Health Chris Hipkins said the advice was clear - that the use of face coverings can reduce the risk of people spreading Covid-19, particularly where it is hard to maintain physical distance from others.
Hipkins encouraged people to get three or four washable masks each. The government is also looking at the potential distribution of reusable masks to those most in need.
If people do not have a mask they can use a scarf or bandana.
Hipkins said a further 3 million masks would be released in coming days.
They will be distributed among iwi, social services groups and community foodbanks in centres and regions where there is public transport.
Although enforcement will be a "light touch" people can face a $300 infringement notice or a fine of up to a $1000 imposed by the courts.
Read more about the Covid-19 coronavirus:
- See all RNZ Covid-19 news
- Covid-19 symptoms: What they are and how they make you feel
- Touching your Face: Why do we do it and how to stop
- Scientific hand-washing advice to avoid infection
- Your Covid-19 questions answered - from health and employment to managing anxiety
- A timeline: How the coronavirus started, spread and stalled life in New Zealand
- Coronavirus: A glossary of terms
