$37m goes into search

The Government is pumping $37 million into a Covid-19 vaccine strategy and will lobby internationally to ensure New Zealand and the Pacific Islands get a fair share when it is developed.

It comes as Kiwis are being warned they could be among the last citizens in the world to get the coronavirus vaccine, as scientists scramble to develop a homegrown candidate.

Experts told Stuff this week that under most scenarios it will be a ‘‘long way’’ before a vaccine makes it to New Zealand shores, with growing nationalism overseas fuelling a reluctance among leaders to share vaccines beyond their borders.

The Government says it will pull out all the stops to advance discovery, development, testing and supply of a Covid-19 vaccine for New Zealand and the Pacific.

The strategy aims to secure a vaccine – safe, effective and in sufficient quantities – at the earliest possible time and allow New Zealand scientists to contribute to global research efforts and explore the potential of vaccine manufacturing capability in New Zealand.

The aim is to ensure New Zealand has detailed knowledge of key international research efforts and an ability to assess promising vaccine candidates as they emerge.

Of the funding, $10m has been allocated to help with research in New Zealand, with $5m set aside to support potential manufacturing capability.

Up to $15m has been earmarked for collaboration with international research that includes those managed by Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations.

Development funding of $7m will go to the vaccine alliance Gavi, which distributes vaccines to developing countries.