New Zealand’s Covid-19 inquiry is holding up a mirror, and what it’s reflecting is equal parts success story and sobering reality.

Associate Professor Helen Petousis-Harris, a vaccinologist at the University of Auckland, says the lessons from phase one are clear: while lives were saved, we paid a heavy price.

The Royal Commission’s first phase applauded the early elimination strategy, which helped avoid the scale of death seen overseas.

But it also highlighted the toll — border pain, disrupted learning, and deep mental strain, especially in already marginalised communities.

What’s more, New Zealand’s pandemic plan was built for a different kind of virus.

Covid-19 exposed cracks in everything from ICU capacity to PPE logistics, revealing systems that weren’t ready for a 21st century threat.

Crucially, voices that should’ve been central, particularly Māori and Pacific health providers, were often sidelined.

The inquiry found that Te Tiriti obligations were poorly upheld, and trusted community networks were left underused.

Communication also faltered.

Early messaging was clear and empathetic, but became rigid and centralised as time went on, missing the mark with diverse communities.

Phase two, now underway, will dig deeper.

It’s set to examine vaccine equity, misinformation, mandates, and the long-term impacts on health, education, and trust.

Why does this matter for Coasties?

Because future pandemics could disrupt local schools, impact healthcare at Hibiscus Coast providers, and isolate our most vulnerable again.

To protect our community next time, we need plans that listen to every voice, include trusted local networks, and make room for equity—not just strategy.

Seen something local we should cover?

Let us know at [email protected]