As of 12 noon on Wednesday 12 August, Auckland will move to Alert Level 3. The rest of New Zealand will move to Alert Level 2. This is until midnight on Friday, at this stage.

What does this mean for Auckland?

Under Alert Level 3, you are encouraged work from home if you can.

If you are currently in Auckland and do not live in Auckland, we suggest that you go home and follow the Alert Level 2 guidance. We recommend that you keep your bubble small.

Businesses are able to open, but should not physically interact with customers. Essential services - healthcare, justice services and businesses providing necessities are able to open. Bars and restaurants should close (takeaways allowed).

Schools in Auckland should close, except for children of essential workers. We encourage students to learn from home if possible.

Maintain physical distancing of 2 metres outside your home, including on public transport and it is highly recommended that you wear a mask if you are out and about.

Public transport can continue to operate with strict health and safety requirements (physical distancing and wearing a mask)

Public venues should close. This includes libraries, museums, cinemas, food courts, gyms, pools, playgrounds and markets.

Gatherings of up to 10 people can continue, but only for wedding services, funerals and tangihanga. Physical distancing and public health measures should be maintained.

Inter-regional travel is highly limited to, for example, essential workers, with limited exemptions for others.

People at high risk of severe illness such as older people and those with existing medical conditions are encouraged to stay at home where possible, and take additional precautions when leaving home.

What does this mean for the rest of New Zealand?

The rest of New Zealand will go into Alert Level 2 on 12 noon on Wednesday 12 August. You will still be able to go to work and school, with physical distancing. Wear masks if you can in public.

No more than 100 people at gatherings, including weddings, birthdays, funerals and tangihanga.

Businesses can open to the public if they are following public health guidance, which include physical distancing and record keeping.

People at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19, for example those with underlying medical conditions and old people are encouraged to take additional precautions when leaving home.

Practice good hygiene - stay home if sick.