Aucklanders will remain in level 2.5 until at least the 21st of September. However, the rest of New Zealand is set to shift out of alert level two in a weeks’ time, Jacinda Ardern has announced.

The country - except Auckland - will move down to level one at 11.59 p.m. on Monday, September 21, contingent on any new Covid-19 cases appearing between now and then. The move will be confirmed on Monday week, when Cabinet meets again.

Cabinet will then review the current restrictions in Auckland next Monday. However, there is no commitment to loosen restrictions at the same time as the rest of the country.

Ardern said the earliest Auckland could join the rest of the country in level one would be Wednesday, September 23, depending on how the existing cluster is contained. The move into alert level one will take place when there is a lower risk of bouncing back up alert levels.

An easing of physical distancing requirements on planes and public transport has also been announced, effective from today.

There will be no seating restrictions or passenger capacity limits, but mask use will continue to be compulsory.

“I know this change will make a real difference to Air New Zealand and those parts of the country seeking increased numbers of visitors, and the change made demonstrates the willingness on the government’s behalf to constantly review our settings, with everyone’s health at the top of our minds,” Ardern said.