The government has clarified the settings where face masks will and won't be required as the country navigates through a Covid-19 Omicron outbreak.
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After public outcry and a petition, government officials have clarified on the rule over whether everyone at weddings would need to wear a mask, including for photos.
"The first kiss at a wedding will be tricky with bride and groom wearing masks," National MP Chris Bishop tweeted yesterday.
Today the ministry said that from 4 February, masks will need to be worn at food and drink businesses, close-proximity businesses, and events and gatherings.
However, masks will not be needed "at a gathering where you have the exclusive use of the venue, including weddings. You can take your mask off to eat, drink or exercise".
There is also new guidance on the type of masks that are acceptable. Scarves, bandannas, or t-shirts are out, and the public is asked to wear "an actual mask" that loops around the ears or head.
School children in Year 4 and up must wear a mask on public transport and Ministry of Education-funded school transport services
All workers who are covered by vaccine mandates are required to wear a medical-grade mask while working in public-facing roles.