Restrictions eased

It was due to end last night.

It has also decided to relax many of the current bans by extending trading hours from 6am to 8pm Monday to Saturday.

Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa said the cabinet has also decided to lift the ban on alcohol sales but only in hotels, bars, restaurants and licensed premises.

With the extended opening hours, Cabinet has also approved Sunday trading, but from 12noon until 8pm.

People queued for pubs and bars that opened at midnight on Monday specifically for the occasion.

Many others have been enjoying anticipated reunions and visits to the homes of relatives and friends.

Covid rules had banned household visits and travel beyond a 5km (3.1 miles) zone, separating many families.

But most restrictions have now been eased for fully vaccinated people.

People can now share meal together at reopened cafes and restaurants, and visit gyms and other shops. There were long queues for barbers, nail salons and beauticians on Monday.