Covid Inquiry: It's Time to Give Jacinda Ardern a Break

Dame Jacinda Ardern has agreed to testify before the Royal Commission of Inquiry into New Zealand's COVID-19 response. Critics have attacked her leadership, but many view her as a crisis leader who brought international acclaim. Business leaders have also faced scrutiny, with some accused of self-promotion. The inquiry aims to learn from the pandemic and hear from key decision-makers and those affected.

Former Prime Minister Dame Jacinda Ardern has agreed to provide evidence to the Royal Commission of Inquiry investigating New Zealand's COVID-19 pandemic response. The inquiry, which began in July 2025, aims to examine the government's response and its effects, with a particular focus on the extended lockdowns in Auckland and Northland in 2021 and vaccine mandates and safety [1].

The inquiry is currently in its second phase, which was initiated by the National-led coalition government to review key decisions made in 2021 and 2022, including the use of vaccines and lockdowns [2]. The terms of reference for this phase have been criticized by some for potentially providing a platform for conspiracy theorists, according to Labour leader Chris Hipkins [2].

Dame Ardern's testimony is expected to shed light on her leadership during the pandemic, which has been both praised and criticized. While some view her as a crisis leader who brought international acclaim, others have attacked her leadership and accused her of mishandling the situation. Business leaders have also faced scrutiny, with some accused of self-promotion during the pandemic [1].

The inquiry's findings are expected to provide valuable insights into the pandemic response and its effects, helping to inform future public health policies. The testimony of key decision-makers, such as Dame Ardern, and those affected by the pandemic will be crucial in understanding the full impact of the response.

References:
[1] https://www.1news.co.nz/2025/07/10/jacinda-ardern-to-give-evidence-to-covid-response-inquiry/
[2] https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/labours-chris-hipkins-says-covid-inquiry-terms-platform-conspiracy-theorists/7V234KETJZEEVGOYJMBB7UZBKI/