The deal also includes an independent COVID-19 inquiry scrutinising aspects including the use of multiple lockdowns.

A person receives an influenza vaccine in Chicago, Ill., on Sept. 9, 2022. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

By Monica O’Shea

The incoming New Zealand government, under Prime Minister-elect Christopher Luxon, has broken a historic deal with New Zealand First, led by Winston Peters, to terminate all COVID-19 vaccine mandates and establish an inquiry into the pandemic.

Following weeks of negotiations, a coalition agreement has been established between the National Party, ACT New Zealand, and New Zealand First to form a new government.

In the agreement, the parties have agreed to "end all COVID-19 vaccine mandates still in operation."

Although Employment New Zealand currently reports no government vaccine mandates at present, it acknowledges that some employers may still require vaccinations based on health and safety legislation.

During COVID-19, while Jacinda Ardern was Prime Minister, New Zealand introduced vaccine mandates for workers in certain settings and a vaccine pass for the public.

The mandate for workers includes quarantine and border staff, school and early learning staff, high-risk health and disability workers police, and defence force.

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In October 2021, the government brought in a vaccine pass for workers and the public to access hospitality, gyms, and hair salons.

Chris Hipkins, who was a health minister during COVID-19, took over from Ms. Ardern as Prime Minister in January.

During the election campaign, he sparked a massive reaction online when he claimed "there was no compulsory vaccination."

Incoming Prime Minister Mr. Luxon will be officially sworn in as Prime Minister on Nov. 27 together with ministers from the National, New Zealand First, and ACT parties.

The Deputy Prime Minister role will be shared between Mr. Peters and ACT leader David Seymour.

(L-R) Winston Peters, leader of New Zealand First party, New Zealand's incoming Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, and David Seymour, leader of the ACT New Zealand party, attend the signing of an agreement to form a three-party coalition government at Parliament in Wellington on Nov. 24, 2023. (Marty Melville/AFP)

Independent COVID-19 Inquiry 

In addition to ending vaccine mandates, an urgent and comprehensive independent COVID-19 inquiry will be conducted, featuring both local and international experts.

The inquiry will look into how the COVID-19 pandemic was handled in New Zealand, including the use of multiple lockdowns and the efficiency of vaccine procurement.

Ahead of the election, Mr. Peters campaigned for possible vaccine compensation for those who lost their jobs or were proven injured by the vaccine.

"You should listen to an inquiry if you've got confidence in it and the answer is, one would have to listen to that," Mr. Peters said in quotes cited by the New Zealand Herald in September.

The inquiry would also look into the social and economics of the COVID-19 pandemic and whether the decisions and steps taken were justified.

A national interest test will also be conducted before New Zealand accepts any deal with the United Nations.

I’ve spoken with the Governor General to inform her that I can form a government.

On Monday I look forward to being sworn in as New Zealand’s 42nd Prime Minister alongside ministers from National, ACT and New Zealand First who are ready to get to work to make this great… pic.twitter.com/WMTOOOtbkv — Christopher Luxon (@chrisluxonmp) November 24, 2023