There has been a mostly positive response to the alert level two requirement to wear masks in public places, Wānaka Police has reported.

A police spokesperson told the Wānaka App there have been “a small number of incidents where people have reacted negatively towards the directions of retail staff with regard to wearing a face-covering” but compliance has been excellent for the most part.

“Many retailers are able to deal with situations without police needing to be contacted. However, police will continue to remind people of the alert level requirements and will support retailers to ensure compliance,” the spokesperson said.

New World Three Parks owner Natashia Bartley told the Wānaka App that locals have had alert levels four and three to get used to wearing masks and there have been “no significant incidents” in the store.

Staff at Wanacare Pharmacy

“While there was some debate from a small minority to this earlier, the awareness of it being a government requirement is now more widely accepted. Most of the community are happy to wear them to protect themselves and others,” she said.

Kai Whakapai owner Nick Aubrey told the Wānaka App he wasn’t aware of any problems with mask compliance at the cafe and bar.

“I’ve been very impressed by the local community going above and beyond to wear their masks while arriving at our premises and while using shared areas,” he said.

Ritual Cafe owner Chris Hadfield

Wānaka senior constable Adrian Kerin reported in Crimeline this week that people may be asked to put on a mask by employees at local stores. 

“It is not a slur on you personally but is a requirement to prevent any spread of the disease,” he said. “‘I forgot it’ or ‘it’s in the car I won’t be long’ doesn’t cut it. We all need to do our part to stop this disease unless level four looks good again to people. Your behaviour matters so please do the right thing.”

At alert levels two, three and four people must wear a face covering when inside a retail business, healthcare facility, public venues, and on public transport. 

PHOTOS: Wānaka App