Newshub has approached MBIE for comment.
The temporary closure of non-essential businesses comes as the Government urgently attempts to stop the spread of COVID-19 in New Zealand.
Already there are 283 cases of coronavirus throughout the country, and that is expected to increase further in the coming days.
In criteria set out by MBIE, an essential service is defined as “any entity involved in the supply, delivery, distribution and sale of food, beverage and other key consumer goods essential for maintaining the wellbeing of people”.
It is not clear whether Imperial Tobacco fits this description.
