Public face mask use during the COVID-19 pandemic in Auckland, New Zealand

Abstract Aim Public health officials recommended the use of face masks by population to combat transmission COVID-19. Studies on self-reported behaviour are a poor substitute for assessing adherence government recommendations. This study aimed determine percentage pedestrians wearing in Central Business District (CBD) and suburb Auckland, New Zealand (NZ). Methods direct observational crossing two busy intersections occurred between 22 August 2020 7 March 2022. Data collection at three separate times during day, morning (from 8 9 am), noon 12 1 pm) afternoon 4 5 precisely one hour each time. Results Over days COVID alert level restrictions, we observed 30,855 pedestrians. Overall, 57.9% wore mask outdoors. Masks-wearing was significantly higher CBD (64.0%) than (38.7%), p < 0.001. Masks lower (51.1%) (56.1%) or (62.7%), 0.001, both suburb. Conclusion first NZ examining public’s COVID-19 pandemic. From our observations, there may be opportunities improvement public rates decrease spread population. In addition, findings can inform national international agencies about uptake public.