Covid-19: Who needs to wear a mask on public transport? The new rules, explained

Masks will be mandatory on Auckland public transport and on all domestic flights starting Thursday.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins made the announcement at Monday’s post-cabinet press conference.

“Fighting Covid-19 requires a sustained effort from all New Zealanders and there are simple actions everyone can take to keep us safe,” Hipkins said.

The new requirement fits into alert level 1, there has been no change in alert level. This is how it will work.

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When do we have to start wearing masks?

Starting at 11:59 p.m. From Wednesday November 18, skins will be required in various settings.

Who has to wear a mask?

Anyone using public transport in Auckland or driving a taxi or carpool. It also applies to those using public transport to or from Auckland.

The mandate is also in effect for all domestic flights in New Zealand, meaning the entire country, not just flights to or from Auckland.

Children under 12 are exempt, as are school buses.

When do I wear it?

You will need to put on the mask each time you board a bus, train or tram to enter or leave Auckland, and each time you board a domestic flight.

Taxi and rideshare drivers must also wear masks, but you don’t have to as a passenger unless you want to.

Will the mask rules be implemented across the country?

It’s possible. Hipkins said the Cabinet is still considering whether in the future it will require face covering on public transportation across the country.

“The government is seeking further advice from officials on expanding facial coverage requirements for other centers and introducing mandatory QR code scanning in some high-risk situations where contact tracing is challenging,” he said.

Are there exempt groups?

Yes, children under the age of 12 are not required to wear masks, although they can if they wish.

School buses are also exempt from the rules.

People with medical conditions that prevent them from wearing a mask or covering their face safely or comfortably, including people with asthma or a disability, are also exempt.

What type of mask do I have to use?

Non-medical grade face covers are allowed, this includes single use masks or reusable cloth masks.

There are no specific standards that these coatings must meet, they can be purchased online, in the store, or made at home. People can even cover their faces and noses with a scarf, scarf, or t-shirt.

How can I wear a mask safely?

Face covers should not be shared and single-use masks should be disposed of properly after each use.

Here’s how to put on a mask safely:

1. Check the face cover and make sure it is clean, dry and intact.
2. Wash and dry your hands
3. Place the cover over your nose, mouth, and chin and secure the ties or ties.
4. Wash and dry your hands again

Here’s more information on how to care for your face masks.

Will there be a penalty if I don’t use one?

Yes. The police will be able to enforce the new rules.

But Hipkins said that kind of app would be the last resort.

“We will take an ‘educate and encourage’ approach,” he said. “Bus drivers and other transportation workers will not be responsible for enforcing the new requirement.”

Hipkins said the police officers would be out and talk to people and make sure everyone knew the rules.

Under the Covid-19 Public Health Response Act, anyone who intentionally fails to comply with a Covid-19 order could face a fine of $ 4,000 or a six-month prison term. Infringement offenses can result in a $ 300 fee or a court-ordered fine of $ 1,000.

Will the bus driver stop me if I don’t have my mask on?

Bus drivers and attendants on other modes of public transportation are not required to enforce the rule.

“Ultimately, we don’t expect bus drivers to enforce the rules,” Hipkins said.

How long will I have to keep doing this?

This mandate has no end date. It is in place during Alert Level 1, which New Zealand is currently at.

Why is this a requirement?

The use of masks has been recommended by the World Health Organization.

This is just one of many adjustments being made to the country’s alert level system, as Covid-19 continues to be a problem around the world. Hipkins described the addition to level 1 as a “sensible precaution.”

“It is the right time to make the move,” he said. “In this sense, and taking into account all the factors, we have determined that now is the right time to make the use of masks mandatory in these situations. It will provide another line of defense, is a practical, low-cost option, and has less of a downside in comparison.

“It’s also a good visual reminder that while New Zealand remains relatively free of restrictions, we are not out of the woods yet. We are at level 1, not at level zero. “