French Polynesia softens mask policy

5:43 am on 20 July 2020

French Polynesia has rescinded its order for anyone over the age of 11 to wear a mask in enclosed public places.

The order was in place for just one day and came into force as quarantine requirements for travellers arriving in Tahiti were lifted.

Tahiti readies for international tourism after Covid-19 stopped flights for three months

Tahiti readies for international tourism after Covid-19 stopped flights for three months Photo: supplied

However, the government said the wearing of masks in enclosed public places was still recommended as a precaution against the spread of Covid-19.

Masks are however mandatory on public transport, with offenders risking fines of up to $US850.

The public is also being urged to practice social distancing.

Commercial air travel resumed between Tahiti and Los Angeles last week and between Tahiti and France at the start of July.

French Polynesia recorded 90 coronavirus cases, including 29 crew of an Ecuadorian ship which it classified as transit cases.