Note that Taiwan has full democracy and the economy is hardly affected by covid. It also, unlike NZ and others, has politicians and a population that listens to their scientists. No Karen's and Ken's.
PS I love the name of that news organization - stuff.co.nz
of note: Nobody in NZ wears facemasks which seems a great folly. Kiwis are extremely complacent about Covid 19 and more willing to accept lockdown than facemasks
Face coverings help keep you and others safe
Continuing good habits with face coverings will keep you and others safe, even at Alert Level 1 when it's no longer compulsory.
We encourage you to use face coverings on public transport and when you cannot maintain physical distance from people you do not know, for example in supermarkets.
Be prepared by having a supply of face coverings for everyone who usually lives in your household. Add some to your household emergency kit.
You do not have to wear face coverings at Alert Level 1. However, you legally must wear a face covering if you are travelling into, out of or through an Alert Level 2 region on public transport or aircraft.