Everyone must now wear a mask when visiting the Punanga Nui Market, says manager William Taripo.

The market management earlier stated “it is mandatory for all the Punanga Nui Market vendors to wear a face a mask,” and because the market area is “outdoors”, it was not “compulsory” for visitors or customers to wear masks.

However, some vendors were bitterly disappointed to see many tourists turn up at the market unmasked.

One of the vendors who questioned the market management’s earlier decision to make masks optional for customers was pleased to hear that compulsory wearing of masks would now apply to everyone including all visitors at the market.

“I’m so happy now, at least we are trying to do our best to help keep ourselves safe, we are elderly, we are vulnerable. This will also help get rid of all the confusion that had happened last week.”

This coming Saturday there will only be two entrances into the market, at the usual entrance next to the Avatiu bridge at the main road and the tag in station will be next to the Maroro Hut. The other entrance and tag station will be located at the market office, next to the BSP ATM machine.