In 2022 New Zealand Recorded Its Largest Increase in Deaths in a Century

This increase – attributed to Covid-19 and an ageing population – is the biggest year-on-year jump since the 55.4 per cent (5835) spike in deaths following the 1918 flu pandemic.

But something isn’t quite right with this report. After showing the results the Herald is quick to attribute the rise in deaths to COVID-19.

The Herald shares the following chart showing the groups where the increase in deaths occurs. Of course, as we’ve known ever since actuarial tables were developed, the older people get, the greater the increase in mortality. This is not new. ---More...