COVID-19 in Pacific Islands People of Aotearoa/New Zealand: Communities Taking Control

Abstract

New Zealand had relatively few COVID-19 deaths per capita, through adopting an effective elimination strategy. Led by a popular Prime Minister, supported by science-based advice, that involved early lockdowns, closed borders and mandatory quarantines. Indigenous Maori and Pacific Islands residents were at elevated risk, through socio-economic disadvantage, crowded housing and a higher prevalence of co-morbidities. Three quarters of all cases were of Pacific Islands people, transmitted though household and workplace contacts. Pacific communities, often with inadequate health and social service provision, collectively adopted public health measures, including social distancing and face masks. COVID-19 severely impacted the economy, with lost jobs in the service industries. Pacific Islands people disproportionately experiencing economic hardship and poverty, with adverse impacts on mental health and a reported rise in domestic violence.