The Covid-19 pandemic has affected the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) annual ranking of the most livable cities, bringing Auckland to first place in Vienna, which topped the Top 10 of the best cities, while the island countries of New Zealand, Australia and Japan were ranked at the top.
The Austrian capital has topped the list since 2018. The way New Zealand managed the pandemic gave the cities a big boost.
"The harsh blockade of New Zealand allowed local society to reopen and enabled citizens of cities like Auckland and Wellington to enjoy a lifestyle that seemed similar to pre-pandemic life," the EIU said in a statement.
"The Covid-19 pandemic has severely damaged global livelihoods," the EIU said. The latest ranking is from 2019 after last year was canceled.
10 most livable cities
1. Auckland, Zeland and Re
2. Osaka, Japan
3. Adelaide, Australia
4. Wellington, Zelanda and Re
5. Tokyo, Japan
6. Perth, Australia
7. Zurich, Switzerland
8. Geneva, Switzerland
9. Melbourne, Australi
10. Brisbane, Australi