The aim of this study was to compare past New Zealand immunization strategies with the New Zealand coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) immunization roll-out.

Using the READ document analysis method, 2 New Zealand immunization strategies (for influenza and measles) were analyzed for how the disease, context, vaccine supply and demand, ethical principles (equity, individual autonomy, and maximizing benefits), and the Treaty of Waitangi impacted the immunization programs. The findings were compared with the ongoing COVID-19 mass immunization program in New Zealand, as of October 15, 2021.

Several themes common to the case-studies and the COVID-19 pandemic were identified including the importance of equity, obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi, ethical mandates, and preparedness.

Future emergency planning should integrate learnings from other infectious disease responses and immunization programs to avoid repeating mistakes and to create better health outcomes. This study has provided a basis for ongoing research into how an appropriate immunization plan can be developed that incorporates ethical values, the Treaty of Waitangi (in the NZ context), and evidence-based research to increase trust, equity, health, and preparedness for future outbreaks.