Face masks

Face masks are a way we can protect ourselves and others. Find out when you must wear them, how to wear them safely, who is exempt, and how to get free face masks.

How face masks help

Face masks help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in 2 ways.

They reduce the number of virus particles someone with COVID-19 can spread.
They prevent you from inhaling virus particles.

The best protection is when everyone wears a face mask.

How to wear a face mask safely

Free face masks

You can get free medical face masks when you pick up rapid antigen tests (RATs) from a testing centre. You do not need to be unwell or have COVID-19 symptoms. You still need to order through the Request free COVID-19 RAT kits website.

Request free RATs | Ministry of Health (external link)

Find a testing site that offers free face masks | Healthpoint (external link)

If you are at higher risk of severe illness, you can get free P2/N95 face masks.

People at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19

When to wear a face mask

Face masks are a way we can protect ourselves and others. You should wear one whenever you can. At some traffic light settings, there are some places where you must wear one.

Who does not need to wear a face mask

For some people wearing a face mask is unsuitable. Find where a mask does not need to be worn, who does not need to wear one, and how to get a Mask Exemption Pass if you need one.

Types of face masks

Different types of face masks offer different protection. Make sure your face mask is well-fitting with no gaps and used correctly and consistently. This will help to protect you and others from COVID-19.

How to wear a face mask safely

When you wear a face mask, it is important you use it safely. It should go over your nose, mouth and chin. It should be well-fitting so there are no gaps above, below or on the sides.

How to make a face mask

You can easily make a fabric face mask. It should have 3 layers, with 1 layer of moisture-resistant fabric. It should have loops around your ears or head.