Progress update - March

The work of the Royal Commission of inquiry into COVID-19 lessons is progressing, with the focus currently on identifying and sourcing publicly available information.

This has included an initial communication to Government agencies about reports, reviews and information that can help inform the Commission’s work.

The Commission will also look at other information from a wide range of sources about the COVID-19 response, such as existing websites for example, in this early phase.

A key consideration for the Commission, as per its Terms of Reference, is to ensure that it initially uses publicly available information where possible to inform its work, such as previously completed COVID-19 reports or reviews, of which there are a large number.

Using this approach, the Commission can ensure it doesn’t repeat work that has already been undertaken. The approach will also help guide the next stages of the Commission’s work, including identifying key information gaps, and its broader engagement.

For these reasons the Commission is not seeking additional information outside this process, at this stage.

Timeframes for the Commission's work programme are still being developed, including how the wider community can contribute to the Commission’s overall mission.

The Commissioners know the pandemic has had significant effects for all New Zealanders, and that will remain front of mind as the Inquiry progresses.