The Government is looking into extending QR code rules and making face mask wearing mandatory in high risk locations.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said Cabinet had asked for advice around making QR code scanning compulsory in high risk locations, in places where people are close like bars and restaurants and locations with increased risk of catching Covid-19.
In addition to that, Cabinet is considering mandating face masks at Alert Level 2 or higher, or in certain high-risk locations.
Ardern said today it was "timely to consider additional measures for our toolbox" in terms of Covid-19 protective measures.
An infected traveller attended a popular indoor exhibition at Te Papa, highlighting the potential need for masks.
Ardern said the Sydney traveller's Covid app use allowed for quick contact tracing, but added the use of the app was consistently low across the country.
"This has left us exposed," Ardern said.
On penalties, it could be in the range of fines or the ability for prosecution.
Masks on public transport and flights are already mandatory at Alert Level 1 and upwards.
However its lack of use was called into question after the Covid-positive Sydney traveller attended Te Papa's popular indoor exhibition.
Last August, the Government made it compulsory for all businesses to display QR codes.
Just last week , Hipkins said the Government looked into compulsory scanning over the last year.
"There are some really big logistical hurdles there," he said.
"If you’re not enforcing it then it’s rather pointless making it mandatory. And actually it would add significant additional compliance, particularly for small businesses."
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