New Zealand makes masks mandatory on domestic flights

New Zealand is making the wearing of masks mandatory on domestic flights starting this week.

It comes into effect on 19 November.

It is also making it mandatory for all passengers aged 12 and over on Auckland’s public transport system.

Officials say it is a necessary move with one new local Covid-19 case reported last week.

"Adding mask wearing to the toolbox of measures against the virus is a sensible precaution, and the time is right to make the move," Health Minister Chris Hipkins said.

The public transport rule exempts children going to school and passengers in taxis and Uber rides, although their drivers must don masks.

The NZ government said it is mulling mandatory use of a Covid-19 tracing app before it allows entry to any large events and hospitality venues.  

New Zealand has been one of the more successful countries in containing the virus, with 1,645 recorded infections and 25 deaths so far.

Written by Ray Montgomery, Asia Editor