New Zealand records first COVID-19 death in over three months

New Zealand recorded its first coronavirus death in more than three months after a man in his 50s succumbed to the virus, health officials said Friday.

"The man in his 50s was part of the August Auckland cluster and died earlier today at Middlemore (Hospital)," the health department said in a statement.

New Zealand has now reported 23 fatalities due to COVID-19.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Friday said current social distancing measures will be retained until September 14 when further decisions will be made.

New Zealand will be kept at COVID-19 Alert Level 2, while Auckland will be at Level 2.5.

"The best economic response remains a strong health response," Ardern said, stressing a cautious approach as necessary.

Auckland's Alert Level 2.5 means social gatherings must be restricted to 10 or fewer people, and funerals may have up to 50 people, while Alert Level 2 for the rest of the country means social gatherings need to be less than 100 people, with social distancing and hygiene rules.

Face coverings such as masks became compulsory on public transport across New Zealand from August 31.

(With input from agencies)