Newshub-Reid Research poll shows Kiwis support wearing masks but MPs don't seem to know the rules

When to mask or when not to mask, that is the question Newshub put to MPs - and it turns out most of them don't really know.

But even if they can't quite name the rules, the latest Newshub-Reid Research poll shows most Kiwis are still on board with the mask-up rules.

Masks are no longer required in a number of settings after the Government relaxed the rules. But it seems Kiwis aren't quite sure about where it's mandatory. 

"I'm not sure. But I still do it because it's the safe option and it's pretty easy," a local told Newshub.

"Into shops and in public transport," another said. 

Members of the public seemed to do a lot better on the rules than the Members of Parliament.

"I can get the list for you if you want?" said Deputy Prime Minister Grant Robertson, when asked where masks are mandatory. 

"Should I be wearing one right now?" asked Labour's Stuart Nash. 

"I know that going to the pub, I can take it off there," said Immigration Minister Kris Faafoi. 

The Opposition was shaky too.

Asked what retail stores you don't have to wear a mask, ACT deputy leader Brooke van Velden said shopping malls. 

Oops, yes you do. But she wasn't the only one who got retail wrong. National's Chris Bishop didn't know either. 

"You've caught me out, well done, congratulations," he laughed. 

And what about COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins? Has he schooled up after this infamous slip-up on mask rules?

Yes, he has.

"In shopping malls, in public indoor venues; you do not have to wear a mask outdoors."

Most Kiwis are happy with those rules.

The latest Newshub Reid Research poll asked: Do you support the requirement to wear masks in retail stores, but not in restaurants and other hospitality venues?

The majority - 58.9 percent - said yes, and 34.2 percent don't support the rules.

"I've got an exemption and I've never worn it," one local told Newshub. "A nappy, a face nappy."

Another said they didn't mind the rules. 

"It's an easy thing to do and it's helping people and keeping people safe."

But the Disability Commissioner would really like to see more masks to keep our most vulnerable protected.

"Wanting masks in schools and wanting public health measures in place until we're further down the line," said Paula Tesoriero.

A refresher course for the MPs who still don't know the mask rules:  outdoors, it's up to you; in hospitality it's up to the owners; in schools it's encouraged; and in retail, public transport and supermarkets it's mandatory.