Story perspectives

Royal Commission Slams Labour's Lockdown Handling and Spending

3/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Royal Commission's report finds the Labour government's handling of lockdowns and spending problematic.
Senior National MP Simeon Brown criticized former Prime Minister Chris Hipkins for extending Auckland's lockdown.
The report found nearly half of the $60 billion COVID-19 Response Fund was unrelated to the pandemic, contributing to inflation and economic strain.
The report notes excessive restrictions and eroded public trust.
It urges the government to implement the recommendations.

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Story summary

The Royal Commission's report finds the Labour government's handling of lockdowns and spending problematic.
Senior National MP Simeon Brown criticized former Prime Minister Chris Hipkins for extending Auckland's lockdown.
The report found nearly half of the $60 billion COVID-19 Response Fund was unrelated to the pandemic, contributing to inflation and economic strain.
The report notes excessive restrictions and eroded public trust.
It urges the government to implement the recommendations.