There are countries in the world that are more isolated than New Zealand. There are countries in the world that have a more spread-out and younger population than New Zealand. There are countries in the world that have a more civil society and a higher standard of living and healthcare. But there is no country on Earth that went into the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 and now 2021—no country that entered this saga with the suite of natural advantages that New Zealand enjoys. And it's important to start any debate on our current circumstances by acknowledging those facts.