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Dr Joe Williams Dies

Covid 19 Coronavirus: NZ's 24th death

Emma Russell
NZ Herald

[Some years back our extended family was confronted with a near-new born unable to feed well.  We received advice and diagnoses from several doctors and health experts.  Nothing worked.  A friend who worked in the medical area took us aside and quietly suggested that we might seek a consultation with a doctor, whom she knew, who specialised in such cases.  After securing an appointment, the doctor  recommended a strict, particular diet for the new-born's mother.  The change and effect upon our new born was virtually palpable before our eyes.  That doctor was Dr Joe Williams. Ever since that day, we have held him in the highest regard.  Our family owes him a great deal.  Editor.]

Dr Joe Williams, former Prime Minister of the Cook Islands and a much-respected GP, has died after contracting Covid-19 in Auckland.  The widely-respected medical professional died in Auckland City Hospital last night.  He becomes the 24th person in New Zealand to die from Covid-19 and the second in less than 24 hours related to the current Auckland cluster.

The Ministry of Health said Williams was a "widely regarded member of health services in both New Zealand and the Cook Islands".

Director-general of health Dr Ashley Bloomfield said Williams was a well-known politician, physician and author.  "Dr Williams was seen as a leading figure in the Cook Islands medical community and he will be sadly missed," he said.  Williams was admitted to Auckland City Hospital on August 13.  "Our thoughts are with his family and community at this time of loss and grief.

Williams, 82, was admitted to hospital after he became sick when it is thought he might have come in close contact to someone connected to the initial Auckland cluster. His Mt Wellington practice is not far from the Americold coolstore.  Williams served as the Cook Islands Prime Minister for four months in 1999. He earlier served as the country's Health Minister.