Lockdowns are still the best economic response

Lockdowns are still the best economic response
During the pandemic NZ has spent less time restricted than most other nations. (Image: Getty)
Rosie Collins
This is my first level four pandemic lockdown in New Zealand. I was in England last year and witnessed the calamity of Boris Johnson’s ‘sort-of’ locking down.This time – nestled in my Wellington flat – it strikes me that the economics of hard and fast lockdowns can be elusive at first. “Let it run,” my group chat chimes. Followed by other messages. “The horse has surely bolted this time,” and “Maybe let’s just learn to live with it”.Alternative to lockdowns?It’s tempt...

More Opinion

The Macro Series: All about economists
Opinion

Simon Robertson: The Macro Series: All about economists

Economists should be bold and make big predictions.

Simon Robertson 30 Aug 2025
NZSA: fighting for shareholders
Markets

Oliver Mander: NZSA: fighting for shareholders

CEO pushes back at criticism its 'lost its way'.

Oliver Mander 27 Aug 2025
Councils’ innovation dilemma
Opinion

Peter Griffin: Councils’ innovation dilemma

Our major cities still have the ingredients to be tech talent and investment centres.

Peter Griffin 27 Aug 2025
KiwiSaver is leaking
Opinion

David Chaplin: KiwiSaver is leaking

If KiwiSaver keeps drifting away from its purpose, it might as well not exist at all.

David Chaplin 26 Aug 2025