Domino's aims to offer a free meal each week to seniors for as long as its stores remain open and the coronavirus continues.

Pizza chain Domino's offer of free pizza for senior citizens is a "socially irresponsible" marketing stunt that poses a danger to workers and undermines a Government-ordered lockdown, Unite Union says.

Domino's said from Tuesday it was offering one free pizza meal delivered once a week for New Zealanders over 70 during the coronavirus lockdown.

It said its "Meals For Seniors" initiative was in response to the Government's request for Kiwis to remain at home to stop the spread of coronavirus.

However, Unite Union national secretary Gerard Hehir said it was nothing more than a publicity stunt and called for pizza shops, other takeaways and non-essential retailers to be told they need to close.

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"What they are proposing is socially irresponsible, a danger to workers and undermines the lockdown."

There would be marginal calls as to what was "essential". This was not one of them.



He said the rules were clear.

"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, but not takeaway shops," Hehir said.

"Firstly these are clearly takeaway shops. Just shifting to delivery only cannot be a way around that, otherwise every restaurant and takeaway could just convert to delivery only and keep operating. That would be a disaster. "

It would be almost impossible to maintain proper protections and social distancing in a pizza kitchen, he said.

"If they flout the lockdown they should be closed, prosecuted and their right to continue operating in New Zealand revoked."

New Zealand general manager Cameron Toomey said from Tuesday anyone over 70 that lived within a Domino's delivery territory would be eligible for a free meal delivered to their home.

The meal included one pizza from its value extra or traditional range as well as one dessert or garlic bread.

Its free order was limited to one per household per week.

A spokeswoman said it aimed to provide the service while its stores were open and for as long as this crisis continued.

"It's clear from the overwhelming response from the community this morning that customers appreciate this gesture and we are eager to play our part.

"Providing delivered food, safely, during this crisis can help with social distancing and reduce crowds at supermarkets."

When New Zealand moves to alert level four on Wednesday people will be instructed to stay at home and businesses will close except for essential services.

Domino's said those who were eligible and wanted to order must call 0800 292 000 and leave their name and phone number.

A Domino's worker would then call back to ask for their address and schedule a delivery.

At least 24 hours notice is required. No credit card or other payment type will be needed.

The delivery person will place the order on a safe surface at the customer's designated delivery location and then phone the customer to let them know their order has arrived.

Customers should stay in their home until the delivery person has made contact.