Five Years On: NZ Reflects on First COVID-19 Lockdown as Public Inquiry Expands

Van Velden encouraged all New Zealanders to take this moment of reflection as an opportunity to contribute to the official COVID-19 Inquiry, which is now in its second phase.

Today marks a significant milestone in New Zealand’s modern history: the fifth anniversary of the country’s first COVID-19 lockdown. On 25 March 2020, the nation entered Alert Level 4, initiating one of the world’s earliest and strictest pandemic responses. The country remained under this highest alert level until 27 April 2020, effectively shutting down all non-essential services and instructing citizens to stay home in an effort to halt the spread of the virus.

Over the following months and years, New Zealand would go on to experience several more lockdowns—most notably in 2021, when Auckland and Northland faced extended restrictions that lasted well beyond those applied to the rest of the country. These lockdowns formed part of the government’s elimination strategy, which initially succeeded in keeping case numbers low and saving lives, but also drew scrutiny for their social and economic impacts.

The Lingering Impacts of a Global Crisis

As the country marks this somber anniversary, the effects of the pandemic continue to be felt by many. ACT Party MP Brooke van Velden acknowledged the ongoing challenges in a statement released today.

“I know that many New Zealanders are still experiencing the impact of the pandemic years after it first started, whether that’s on their business, their children’s education, or their health,” she said.

Van Velden encouraged all New Zealanders to take this moment of reflection as an opportunity to contribute to the official COVID-19 Inquiry, which is now in its second phase. “As we take the time to reflect on the anniversary of the first COVID-19 lockdown in New Zealand, I would encourage the public to submit their thoughts to the Inquiry on matters within the terms of reference; including the use of vaccines, lockdowns, testing, and public health materials.”

Public Inquiry Enters Second Phase

In response to ongoing public interest and debate, the Government announced last year a second phase of the COVID-19 Royal Commission of Inquiry. This phase, which officially began on 29 November 2024, is focused on addressing unresolved issues and broader public concerns that may not have been fully explored in the initial phase.

Both the ACT-National and New Zealand First-National coalition agreements included commitments to broaden the scope of the Inquiry. As a result, Phase 2 aims to take a deeper look at how the pandemic was managed across all sectors of society, and to learn from both the successes and shortcomings of the national response.

The Inquiry is now calling for public submissions from individuals, communities, and organisations who were affected by the pandemic in any capacity. Submissions can be made via the official portal at www.covid19inquiry.nz, and will remain open until midnight on 27 April 2025.

A Chance to Be Heard

Van Velden stressed the importance of community engagement with the Inquiry, highlighting that the lessons learned could help prepare New Zealand for future emergencies.

“It’s important that New Zealanders tell the Inquiry about their experiences so we can be better prepared as a country for any future events,” she said. “I look forward to seeing the final report and recommendations delivered to me in February 2026.”

The final report from the Inquiry will be a comprehensive document expected to provide recommendations for future public health emergencies, with the goal of strengthening New Zealand’s resilience and response capabilities. It is scheduled for delivery in February 2026.

In the meantime, New Zealanders are being urged to look back on their experiences—whether personal, professional, or societal—and contribute their voice to a process aimed at learning, healing, and building a stronger future.

---

Quick Facts: COVID-19 Inquiry Submissions

• Deadline for Public Submissions: Midnight, 27 April 2025

• Submission Portal: www.covid19inquiry.nz

• Final Report Due: February 2026

• Focus Areas: Lockdowns, vaccines, testing, public health messaging, and pandemic response strategies.