The Need
Pacific peoples in Aotearoa New Zealand experienced disproportionate impacts from COVID-19 yet remain underrepresented in health behaviour monitoring and pandemic-related data collection. Government-commissioned surveys and conventional sampling methods often failed to adequately include Pacific subgroups, limiting the development of culturally grounded strategies to support protective health behaviours and reducing the relevance of findings for Pacific communities.

Approach
This mixed-methods study was co-designed with Pacific community leaders to strengthen representation and inform policy. It aimed to:

1. Assess COVID-19 knowledge, attitudes, and protective behaviours (KAP) among   Pacific peoples in Aotearoa NZ

2. Identify demographic factors influencing protective behaviours

3. Develop recommendations for infectious disease prevention and management tailored to Pacific communities

Respondent-Driven Sampling (RDS) was used to reach a diverse and representative sample. A structured survey combined quantitative and qualitative elements to assess knowledge accuracy, attitudes toward public health measures, and self-reported behaviours. In-depth talanoa interviews with 20 participants added cultural and contextual depth.

Key Results

• Participant Reach: 1,057 Pacific individuals aged 19–81 recruited across nine ethnic groups (2022–2024)

• High Knowledge Levels: Most participants understood COVID-19 transmission and protective actions required.

• Attitudes as Mediators: Attitudes significantly mediated the link between knowledge and protective behaviours.

• Demographic Influences: Older, Island-born, and female participants were more likely to engage in protective behaviours.

• Knowledge Gaps: A subgroup of participants held misconceptions around COVID-19 vaccines, including concerns about side effects, misunderstandings about cures, and beliefs related to DNA alteration.

• Novel Attitudes Measure: Two key components emerged. These are, trust in government health guidelines, and perceived protection of Pacific communities through government engagement.