After more than a month of strict restrictions on movement, New Zealand has decided to reopen businesses including malls, cinemas, cafes and gyms from Thursday, Reuters reported.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said the staggered move from "level 4" to “level 2” restrictions will mean retail, restaurants and other public spaces including playgrounds can reopen from Thursday. Schools can open from next Monday while bars can only reopen from May 21, Ardern said. Gatherings would be limited to 10 people.