Covid-19: What you can and cannot do under the new level 2

While restrictions still apply, it will mean a lot more freedom for everyone as everywhere apart from Auckland drops to alert level 2 from 11.59pm on Tuesday.

The key differences to the previous level 2 restrictions are limits on gatherings. Indoors, such as in hospitality settings or event venues, the maximum number of people allowed is now 50. Outdoors, it is 100 – and attendees must keep records at both indoor and outdoor events. Social distancing at indoor venues has increased from 1 metre previously to 2 metres under the new alert level 2.

Mask Wearing
Masks are mandatory at level 2 for:

Retail workers, including those that were operating at alert levels 3 and 4.

Employees at an indoor public facility – for example, a library, museum or a gym. People who work at a swimming pool do not need to wear a face covering.

Public-facing court, tribunal, local or central government agency or social service workers

Residential delivery drivers, when they are out of their vehicle.

Workers at a cafe, restaurant, bar, nightclub, soup kitchen or any other food or drink business.

Hairdressers, barbers, beauty therapists and massage therapists.

Face coverings are also mandatory for everyone at most public venues

Can students return to schools and universities?
All early learning services, schools, kura and tertiary education facilities will fully reopen on Thursday.

School events or activities like performances, cultural events and sports can also continue.
Students and teachers do not need to physically distance but parents, carers and whānau who visit the school should try to keep 2 metres apart from people they do not know.
Students will not be required to wear a face mask, although it is recommended for those over 12.
All children should return to school as normal at level 2, unless they are sick.

Public spaces
Public parks and playgrounds are open, and you can drive to a beach or a park outside your local neighbourhood. At level 2, you can do your usual sport and recreation activities, if you can do them safely.