This time last year, Aotearoa New Zealand had just moved into the third week of Alert Level one, following 11 weeks of unprecedented social and physical restrictions, similar to what some parts of the worlds are still enforcing. Our relative freedoms remind us of the mahi (work) we have done as a nation to contain COVID-19. However, the fact that I am addressing you today virtually highlights the ongoing virus risks prevalent. Firstly, I do acknowledge that economic activity in New Zealand is returning to its pre-COVID-19 levels which has been supported by our ability to keep COVID-19 contained, along with ... (full story)