The economic costThe economic cost associated with the lockdown was very large. In the 4 months to July, we estimate New Zealand’s economic activity was $6.2b higher than if we had followed the same economic profile as Sweden. Using the value of life approach, the cost of following the UK would be $18.9b, $13.6b in following Sweden, and $15.8b in following the US. Restrictions the second time aroundLevel 2 restrictions did not have a big impact on the economy, but level 3 reduced economic activity by around 30 per cent. It will be hard, but worth itLockdowns are meant to stop the virus, and will also stop much economic activity.

Source: Stuff August 16, 2020 16:52 UTC