Viewpoint – Teamwork pays off

Who could have predicted that the worldwide pandemic would see us having a second summer under Covid conditions? But after what has been another tough year, at least in New Zealand people had the kind of festive season many other countries could only dream of.

Over the past two years, our communities have pulled together to respond to Covid-19. Our approach has worked – New Zealand has some of the lowest rates of cases, hospitalisations and deaths in the OECD, as well as a stronger-than-expected economy.

Figures just published show our unemployment has fallen to its lowest level (3.2%) on record, as the hard work of business and workers, along with the Government’s actions to support the economy during the Delta outbreak, resulted in more people in work. The OECD carries out country surveys every two years to review its members’ economic policies. The OECD’s 2022 Economic Survey notes that New Zealand has one of the lowest mortality rates in the world, while the economy has proved strong and resilient, and operating above pre-Covid levels. The Government’s financial accounts are expected to return to surplus sooner than expected, with inflation set to fall across the rest of 2022 towards the Reserve Bank’s target midpoint of two per cent.

All this took a team effort, but it is definitely worth it. Because here’s an example of what ‘living with Covid’ looks like in other countries. In the Netherlands, where my elderly parents live, they are now seeing over 100,000 new daily Covid-19 cases. With around 1500 people in hospital, many seriously ill, health services are getting overwhelmed to the point that healthcare workers, who are close contacts, need to continue to work. Only once they receive confirmation of a positive test are they required to isolate. Just imagine what that means for those workers and the people needing healthcare. Imagine the constant stress on the vulnerable and elderly.

New Zealand is well-placed to take on Omicron, but just like with earlier variants, limiting the threat will take a team effort. By getting a booster, wearing a mask, scanning in, and looking out for each other, we can all do our bit to slow the spread and keep our communities safe. At Red, these behaviours become even more important to slow the spread and reduce pressure on our health system.

It’s been a huge team effort and, together, we can all help to reduce the risk of Omicron. The best way we can each play our part now is by getting boosted. I am one of the more than one million Kiwis who are already boosted and most New Zealanders will be eligible this month. Thanks to everyone who has already stepped up to get that extra layer of protection. At the start of 2022, I want to thank everyone for working hard to keep us safe and keeping Covid at bay. I hope you enjoy the rest of summer and remember to shop local to support our communities.