The Covid Response: A Scientists Account of New Zealands Pandemic and What Comes Next

(Paperback)

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Some scientists prepare for such a moment for decades.

New Zealands pandemic response delivered one of the lowest Covid-19 health burdens in the world, thanks to early elimination and high vaccination rates. While border controls and early lockdowns were strict, domestic freedoms ultimately exceeded those in other advanced economies, making the country a global case study. Yet, these successes came at a cost financial strain, social isolation and unequal access to support. How did we get here, and how did science shape decisions in real time

In The Covid Response, physicist Professor Shaun Hendy offers an insiders perspective on New Zealands unique approach to the pandemic. He takes readers behind the scenes of the countrys science-driven response, sharing firsthand experiences as a key member of the advisory team at Te Pnaha Matatini. Through this engaging narrative, Hendy unpacks the science behind critical decisions ranging from lockdowns to the strategic use of genomic sequencing and data modelling.

This book examines high-stakes decisions made in real time, their impact on New Zealand, and the lessons they offer for the future.

Author Bio

Professor Shaun Hendy MNZM FRSNZ is a renowned physicist andscience communicator. As the founding director of TePnahaMatatini, he played a key role in New Zealands Covid-19 response. Hendys work has been recognised with numerous awards, including the Callaghan Medal for Science Communication and the Prime Ministers Science Media Communication Prize. His previous books include Silencing Science (BWB, 2016) and #NoFly (BWB, 2019). He continues to contribute to the public understanding of science as an adjunct professor at Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington.