Science advice in emergencies
The PMCSA and members of the Chief Science Advisor Forum can be called on to provide science advice during unexpected and rapidly-evolving situations. This is a developing focus of the Office.
In 2019, we provided advice after the Christchurch terror attack.
Read the briefing to the PM on the Christchurch shooting
We also supported the response to the 2019 Whakaari/White Island eruption and continue to support the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.
Documentary films
Watch Shirley Horrocks’ independent t-part series on science advice in emergencies. Part one is about the COVID-19 pandemic response, part two is about the Whakaari/White Island eruption, and part three returns to COVID-19, with a focus on whole genome sequencing.
Tom Wilson on disaster risk management
Tom Wilson, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Chief Science Advisor, was quoted in an article about planning for catastrophic events. Specifically, disaster risks from the Hikurangi subduction zone. Read the article published by Radio New...
New short film on genome sequencing released
How is Aotearoa New Zealand using genome sequencing in our response to the COVID-19 pandemic? Watch the latest documentary from independent filmmaker Shirley Horrocks.
Reflection on science in emergencies
More than ever, we must listen to Aotearoa New Zealand's scientists, and ensure that our institutional structures allow them to speak.
Short documentary on the Whakaari/White Island eruption released
Take a behind-the-scenes look at the science response to the Whakaari/White Island eruption and recovery mission in this short documentary by independent filmmaker Shirley Horrocks.
Short documentary on COVID-19 pandemic response released
The doco, by independent filmmaker Shirley Horrocks, features key players in Aotearoa's COVID-19 response.
COVID-19 coronavirus: In crisis, Kiwis are more likely to trust experts
The New Zealand Herald's science reporter Jamie Morton spoke to Juliet about separating "the fact from the fudge" during the COVID-19 crisis.
COVID-19 data: Why we need to look behind the numbers
As the number of cases of COVID-19 skyrockets globally it’s tempting to dive into the wealth of data updated daily on the internet. But we need to be cautious about interpreting the data.
COVID-19: Chief Science Advisor on effect of global lockdowns
Juliet speaks to Lisa Owen on RNZ about the worldwide measures that will hopefully curb the rate of Covid-19 transmission in New Zealand, as the country prepares for lockdown.
How psychology researchers responded to the Christchurch mosque shootings – an exemplar in getting an evidence base to government at pace
Beyond the immediate response phase after March 15th, the Chief Science Advisors and surrounding research community have been occupied with how to best inform policy efforts focused on supporting the people of Christchurch as they recover from this trauma.
Quiet thoughts
Apart from acknowledging the terrible events of March 15th with a ‘Kia Kaha’, we have turned down the social media volume to zero this week in the Office. A mark of respect for the victims and their whānau, and a time to reflect. A week later, here are a few thoughts.
