KFC's appealing to customers to be patient when the stampede starts for takeaways

Contactless and drive-thru sales are operating again at most KFC, Pizza Hut, Carl's Junior and Taco Bell stores south of Auckland - under Level Three.

A Restaurant Brands spokeswoman says customers are being asked to treat staff kindly while they wait for their orders.

She says staff have stepped up cleaning and sanitising - and will be wearing masks and gloves at all times.

KFC's menu's being reduced so social distancing rules can be maintained in kitchens.