Government announces indoor events with 100 people or more are banned in order to limit the spread of Covid-19.
The rules do not apply to schools, workplaces, supermarkets or public transport.
“There is still no evidence of community transmission in New Zealand,” Clark said.
“Protecting the health of New Zealanders is our number one priority, and that means we need to reduce the risks associated with large gatherings,” Health Minister David Clark said.
He said for those not sure of what to do when to comes to mass gatherings, Clark said: "if in doubt, cancel"
“We know this has specific implications for the hospitality sector. We will work with the sector over the next 24-36 hours to develop guidance," Clark said.
"Making sure we put in place social distancing rules is one of the most important things we can do to protect the public."
Clark said that just because an event does not have 500 or 100 people doesn’t mean people can ignore appropriate hygiene measures.
"For any gathering or event you need to ensure people can stay further than one metre apart, and have the ability to wash and dry their hands thoroughly.
“Regardless of the size of a gathering, if someone is unwell, they shouldn’t attend."
It comes just four days after Cabinet agreed that gatherings of 500 or more people would not go ahead.
According to Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, this would "slow the spread" of Covid-19 and reduce the number of people infected.
This applied to non-essential events including sporting and religious events, but excluded school or university events.
If event organisers refused, powers under the Health Act can be used to shut events down.
Gatherings of people under 500 could be allowed "under certain circumstances", she said, such as where close contact can be avoided.
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