Three top New Zealand health officials will be stepping down from their posts, including Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield. On Wednesday, Bloomfield announced his intention to retire from the role at the end of July, almost one year earlier than the official end of his contracted term, June 11, 2023. Public Service Commissioner Peter Hughes said Bloomfield had played a vital role in New Zealand’s response to COVID-19 and had indicated that he believed July was a good time to step away and have an “extended break.” “Dr Bloomfield has worked tirelessly for more than two years to keep New Zealanders safe from coronavirus,” Hughes said. “I thank Dr Bloomfield for his commitment to public service, his spirit of service to the community and his exceptional contribution to New Zealand’s COVID-19 response.” COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins thanked Bloomfield for his work in advising the government “every step” of …