Auckland will move to alert level 3, step 2 at 11:59pm on Tuesday night in another loosening of restrictions.
Making the announcement on Monday in her post-Cabinet press conference, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said this was recognition of high vaccination rates in Auckland.
"Vaccination rates are high in Auckland, having hit 90 percent first dose, and so we can continue to ease restrictions safely on our way to re-opening," Ardern said.
"We are easing those restrictions that pose the least risk first. We know for instance that things like outdoor gatherings or picnics haven't contributed to case increases but have made a difference to people's wellbeing."
Ardern added only one case has been reported from BBQs.
Under level 3, step 2:
- retail can open, with customers keeping 2 metres apart, and staff and customers required to wear face coverings
- public facilities like libraries, museums and zoos can reopen, with face coverings required and people keeping 2 metres apart
- outdoor gatherings of up to 25 people can go ahead, with the removal of the two-household restriction. Physical distancing is strongly encouraged to help prevent the virus spreading between households.
- funerals, tangihanga, weddings and civil union ceremonies can have up to 25 people attending, as well as up to five staff
- outdoor organised exercise classes, like yoga and bootcamps, can expand to 25 people, including instructors. Physical distancing of 2 metres is strongly encouraged
However, movie theatres and gyms will remain closed, Ardern reminded Aucklanders.
On Sunday, COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins announced all three of Auckland's DHBs have reached 90 percent first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.
The next step is reaching 90 percent second doses. Once 90 percent of eligible people in all three DHBs in the city are fully vaccinated, Auckland will move into 'Red' in the new traffic light system.
"Based on current projections Auckland should reach the 90 percent double vaccinated milestone by the end of the month," Ardern said on Monday.
"Cabinet has a check-in on November 29 and there is a strong expectation that Auckland will likely move into the COVID-19 Protection Framework following this check-in."
