Waikato moves to step 2 of alert level 3 tonight but Aucklanders have to live with their current Covid-19 restrictions for at least eight more days.

Cabinet has decided in principle to move Auckland to alert level three step two at 11.59pm next Tuesday.

Shops, museums and libraries can reopen with mask-wearing and social distancing, and the outdoor gathering limit will be increased to 25.

Auckland Mayor Phil Goff says given the high vaccination rate, an easing of restrictions makes sense, while some retailers have told RNZ they are thrilled at the prospect.

Waikato District Mayor Allan Sanson is over the moon about the move to step two at midnight.

He says the announcement is the boost people need, because compliance levels are starting to drop.

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