Māori are being vaccinated at a rate nearly half that of Pākehā and Asian New Zealanders despite expert recommendations they be prioritised and Government assurances it would happen. In Tairāwhiti, where the population is close to 50 per cent Māori and 50 per cent Pākehā, Māori are 36 per cent of those vaccinated and Pākehā 58 per cent. Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins said there would be a big push to boost Māori rates across groups 3 and 4. Photo / Mark MitchellAsked about the low Māori vaccination rates Covid-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins said it was concerning. Ten per cent of first vaccine doses have gone to Māori and 9 per cent of second doses over all, he said.

Source: New Zealand Herald June 30, 2021 17:03 UTC