We are now at alert level 2 as a nation – but for those of us in Auckland the rules are slightly different. For all of New Zealand, wearing a mask or face covering is now mandatory on public transport and flights. In Auckland, we are advised to wear a face covering in public places and avoid travel if we’re sick. However, there are some exceptions (for example people with a health condition that makes covering their face unsuitable, do not have to wear face coverings).

Also, there’s no need to buy expensive masks – anyone face covering will do. This includes scarves, dupattas and bandanas. According to experts, breathable materials like cotton and silk are preferable and if you can fold the material you have in half such that there are two layers against your face, that’s even more effective. Health officials recommends three or four washable masks per person.

Health officials advise that the use of face coverings can reduce the risk of people spreading the virus especially if it is hard to maintain physical distance with others. Masks and face coverings do not replace physical distancing but complement other health measures.

There are some exemptions to wear masks such as children under 12 not being required to wear them. It is also not compulsory to wear them on school buses, charter or group tours, on inter-island ferries and private flights.

It is also not mandatory for those using small passenger vehicles such as taxis or Uber to wear masks. However, drivers are required to wear masks.

The Minister of Health confirmed that a further 3 million masks were released for national distribution to boost the immediate supply and will be distributed among iwi, social service groups and community foodbanks in regions. I know that a number of our Indian organisations are part of this initiative and have already started distributing masks to their members and I thank them for their support.

Businesses must display COVID tracer QR code posters. Everyone should download and use the COVID tracer app and make sure you can quickly access all your movements for the last 14 days in case you need to trace your contacts.

All public transport services and small passenger services such as taxis will be required to display QR codes by 11.59pm on Thursday 3 September.

As our Health Minister Chris Hipkins has said, these are actions that will take some getting used to but they are small things we can all do on a daily basis to help us get back to the freedoms of Level 1.

-by Priyanca Radhakrishnan, List MP based in Maungakiekie, Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Minister for Ethnic Communities