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As the demand for face masks reaches a record high, creative solutions are being found by do-it-yourself Kiwis.
Single-use masks and reusable masks alike have been selling fast, following a government announcement of increased Covid-19 restrictions.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern yesterday said five million extra face masks had been released from a government stockpile.
One million of those had been given to Countdown, and three million would be distributed through social services for those who struggled to access and afford them.
Cloth and reusable face coverings, like scarves and bandanas, would suffice, she said.
Prof Michael Baker, of the University of Otago Department of Public Health, said masks were a key defence against Covid-19, and should be woven into the alert level system.
"I think they should be compulsory for indoor activities at Level 3 and 4, and potentially in Level 2 as well."
Otago Polytechnic fashion students have been busy sewing this week, following the trend of making their own face masks using donated and recycled materials.
School of fashion teaching research assistant and lecturer Pip McQuillan said that when
she heard Dr Ashley Bloomfield’s call about mask-wearing last week she thought she would take action.
"I brought it up in a staff meeting and we thought it would be a good idea for students to start making them."
About 30 students were at the polytech yesterday making masks for friends and family.
"It’s very cool. I’m really proud of them and what they’re doing."
Face masks could be fashioned out of business shirts, pillowcases and old T-shirts if needed, she said.
"It is not difficult, it’s definitely achievable . . . it’s also a far more sustainable approach."