Police will give away thousands of face masks across the country on Monday to help Kiwis "ease into" alert level 2 restrictions.
In a statement released on Sunday, police spokesperson Jarred Williamson said masks would be distributed to the public as part of the wider police response to COVID-19.
From Monday, face coverings will become mandatory on public transport at alert levels 2 and above.
"We recognise this requirement is something new for many Kiwis and it's something people may not have been used to doing previously," says Assistant Commissioner Richard Chambers.
"While these masks have been designed to be disposable, as part of our education approach it is hoped that it makes the idea of wearing a face-covering become more familiar for the public."
Asst Cmmr Chambers says police will increase visibility around the country to help remind people to wear masks on buses, trains and ferries.
There will be a heightened police presence at transport hubs and other areas that normally see high volumes of foot traffic.
"Our response to COVID-19 has been to work with the public first and remind them of what is required from them," Asst Cmmr Chambers says.
Auckland will move from level 3 to 'level 2.5' from 11:59pm on Sunday.
Under this in Auckland, all social gatherings will be limited to a maximum of 10 people.
Aucklanders are strongly encouraged to wear a face mask in public spaces and in areas where physical distancing may be difficult.
Two new cases of COVID-19 were confirmed on Sunday, and 11 were recorded in the community on Saturday.
