FAQ · Living & People 47

The life expectancy in New Zealand has shown various changes over several decades. In 1994, the life expectancy was 76.9178. This figure gradually increased over time, reaching 80.0308 in 2005. By 2020, the life expectancy reached 82.6628. Most recently, the recorded life expectancy for 2023 was 82.088.

In 2010, the infant mortality rate for the total population was 5.1 deaths per 1000 live births. Looking toward the future, infant mortality is expected to decline. This trend occurs alongside a forecast that life expectancy at birth will increase from 80 years to 85 years by 2050. These statistics are part of broader demographic shifts in the country. The data reflects changing health and population trends over time.

In 2010, the total fertility rate in New Zealand was 2.1 births per woman. The median age for child birthing was recorded at 30 years. Within Māori populations, the fertility rate is higher at 2.8. These statistics provide insight into the demographic trends of the country. Such data helps illustrate the changing population structure over time.

New Zealand has seen significant legislative changes regarding healthcare and reproductive rights. On 18 March, the New Zealand Parliament passed legislation decriminalising abortion. Later, on 16 March, Parliament passed legislation creating safe access zones around abortion providers. These updates reflect shifts in how reproductive healthcare is managed within the country. Such legislative actions are part of the evolving legal landscape in New Zealand.

Medical benefits for general practitioners and pharmaceuticals were introduced in New Zealand in 1941. This development occurred during a period of significant historical events. These benefits were established following the declaration of war against Japan in December of that year. This era also saw the setup of the Māori War Effort Organisation. Such measures were part of the changing landscape during the early 1940s.

A change to the Government's fees prescription policy has come into force. People can now pay $5 co-payments for 12-monthly prescriptions. This is an alternative to having to pay $5 for every single prescription. Additionally, general practitioners and nurse practitioners are able to diagnose adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) and prescribe stimulant medicines.

Moderate relief from sandfly bites can be achieved through the use of various over-the-counter products. You may choose to ingest Benadryl or apply an analgesic cream such as After Bite topically. These products can help manage the intensely itchy bumps or welts caused by the bites. It is important to note that the strength of the bite often intensifies over a period of 5 to 7 days before it dissipates. Using mosquito repellents can also be effective for prevention.

Under the childhood schedule from Health New Zealand, infants are eligible for their first measles MMR vaccine dose at 12 months of age. This is followed by a second MMR dose when the child is 15 months old. People under the age of 18 years in New Zealand and some 18-year olds are eligible to receive these measles vaccines for free. These vaccinations are important for achieving herd immunity and preventing community transmissions. To reach this goal, 95% of the population needs to be vaccinated against measles and other communicable diseases.

Yes, mental health support is available for certain individuals entering the country. Immigration New Zealand manages the Mangere Refugee Resettlement Centre to assist those arriving under the Refugee Quota Programme. This centre provides mental health support along with health screening and English language orientation classes. The facility was reopened in 2016 following extensive renovations. This support is part of the services offered to refugees entering New Zealand.

As part of their Medicard proposals, Labour has promised to provide free maternity scans. The party also intends to campaign on maintaining KiwiSaver contributions when parents take maternity leave. These policies are part of their broader platform for healthcare and parental support. Such measures aim to assist families during the pregnancy and childbirth process.

During discussions regarding the government's COVID-19 response, certain issues were raised by claimants. These individuals took issue with the government's 90% eligible vaccination threshold. They also specifically pointed to a lack of pediatric vaccines. This concern was part of an application for an urgent inquiry by the Waitangi Tribunal. The inquiry focused on how the government's response affected Māori.

The New Zealand Blood Service has recently updated its policies regarding blood donation. These changes involve easing the rules to allow more gay and bisexual men to donate blood products. This update aims to expand the pool of available donors. It is part of the ongoing management of blood supplies in the country.

Health New Zealand has ordered the closure of a specific forensic intellectual disability unit known as ward 10A at Wakari Hospital. This decision follows an inspection conducted by Chief Ombudsman John Allen in March 2026. The inspection uncovered compelling evidence regarding the treatment of patients in the ward. Specifically, the findings indicated that patients were subjected to punitive and coercive treatment. This action marks a significant development for disability services in the region.

To be eligible for the universal superannuation scheme, individuals must be aged 65 years or older. Applicants must also be New Zealand citizens or permanent residents who are residing in the country at the time of application. Additionally, they must have lived in New Zealand for at least 10 years since turning 20, with five of those years occurring after they turned 50. Certain time spent overseas in specific countries and for certain reasons may be counted toward this requirement. The amount paid depends on the person's household situation and the tax rate depends on their other income.

Present-day Māori cuisine is a mixture of tradition, old-fashioned English cookery, and contemporary dishes. Distinctive dishes include the boil-up made of pork, potatoes, kūmara, and dumplings, as well as pork and pūhā. Another unique food is rēwena, which is a bread made with fermented potatoes. Large gatherings often feature a hāngī containing various foods brought to New Zealand. However, there has been concern in recent decades regarding eating habits. This has led to Māori being disproportionately likely to suffer from obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.

While the smoking rate in New Zealand is low, cigarette butts are the most littered item in the country. A 2018 study recorded that cigarette butts made up 78% of all items littered nationally. This littering is considered a pervasive issue and is also an international concern. Research shows that cigarette butts are among the most common plastic items collected in international beach clean-ups. Many smokers do not view cigarette butts as a valid form of litter or believe they are biodegradable. Additionally, many smokers do not extinguish their butts, which creates fire hazards.

Fonterra has received recognition for its efforts regarding the environment and air quality. In 2008, Fonterra Edendale won the New Zealand Clean Air Society's annual Clean Air award for contributions to researching and improving the environment. The company has also been recognized for energy efficiency and emission reduction initiatives. For example, the Edendale Site was recognized as the most energy efficient dairy manufacturing site in New Zealand in 2016. Additionally, the company received the Low Carbon Future Award in 2021 for its conversion to renewable wood pallets.

The Ministry of Health provides an annual report regarding the drinking-water quality of all registered networked supplies serving more than 100 people. These reports describe how supplies comply with the Drinking-water Standards for New Zealand and the Health Act 1956. Significant sized urban developments are served by municipal sewers that drain to modern treatment works. These works discharge into environments such as rivers, the sea, or wetlands. This monitoring helps track the quality and progress of water management across the country.

The New Zealand Government has expressed a commitment to meeting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals regarding water and sanitation. Around 85% of the estimated population receives drinking water from registered suppliers, while the remaining 15% rely on small self-managed supplies like rainwater collection. Regarding residential connections, 86% of properties are connected to a water network and 85% are connected to a wastewater network. Performance assessments for water, wastewater, and stormwater are provided through annual National Performance Reviews by Water New Zealand. These reviews aim to assess service provision and protect both public health and the environment.

There is an ongoing measles outbreak in New Zealand for 2025. Recent reports show that five new cases were confirmed, bringing the nationwide total to 27. Later, a case was reported in Queenstown, which increased the total number of reported cases to 30. However, 22 cases are no longer considered infectious. The situation is being monitored as new cases are reported.

While the provided information does not discuss malaria within New Zealand itself, it mentions a malaria outbreak on Tanna island following a cyclone. In the aftermath of this event, the New Zealand Red Cross provided $10,000 for essential relief supplies. Additionally, the New Zealand government provided $70,000 for assistance in the most affected areas. This support followed an Air Force mission to determine the extent of the damage. These relief efforts were part of a larger international response to the cyclone.

The provided text mentions that a specific species is reportedly naturalized in New Zealand. This species is known as mad-dog weed and is also called Alisma plantago-aquatica. Historically, a powder prepared from its dried roots was used in popular medicine as a cure for rabies. However, the text notes that this plant should not be confused with other species. It also warns that the plant may have serious side effects or toxic effects.

New Zealand has no snakes at all and no predators such as wolves, bears, big cats, or crocodiles. It is safe to walk alone in the bush or even lie down for a nap. There are almost no poisonous or dangerous animals in the country. The katipo and Australian redback are the only two venomous spiders, but bites from both are extremely rare. While some species of wētā can deliver a painful bite, it is harmless.

Information regarding New Zealand's climate can be found in various scientific and legal assessments. These documents provide insights into the core issues underlying climate change from a scientific perspective. Some reports contain specific details on annual climate conditions, including sunshine, temperature, and soil moisture. Additionally, there are publications focused on the prediction of severe fire weather. These resources help both experts and non-experts understand how these issues are addressed in New Zealand.

If you are not eligible for government subsidies for illnesses, you can be seen as a casual patient at a general practice. This typically costs around $100 depending on your location, though subsidized patients pay a lower cost. It is important to note that not all general practices see casual patients, so you may need to call around. Visitors, international students, and short term workers do not receive funding for illnesses, so travel insurance is highly recommended. However, everyone is subsidized for injury treatment regardless of visa type thanks to ACC. You can access medical care through general practices, urgent care clinics, or emergency departments.

The New Zealand electricity market is a decentralised system regulated by the Electricity Authority. Pricing is determined through a locational marginal pricing auction that uses offers from generators and bids from retailers. These auctions occur every half-hour for a total of 48 trading periods each day. Trade takes place at more than 200 different pricing nodes across the country. A Pricing Manager is responsible for determining the final prices at each of these nodes.

The Taranaki area is the only region in New Zealand with significant known oil and gas deposits. However, there is potential for deposits in many other offshore areas. Natural gas is considered one of the main geological resources of the country. Along with coal, gold, and oil, it forms a key part of the nation's geological wealth. These resources are studied through the ongoing geological exploration of the country.

Transpower and all 29 EDBs are required to report the duration, frequency, and causes of power outages. In the five years to 31 March 2024, the average consumer experienced an unplanned power outage lasting 1.75 hours every six to seven months. Additionally, planned maintenance outages averaged just under four hours every 28 months. These statistics are expressed using the system average interruption duration index and frequency index. This information is provided as part of official information disclosure regulations.

The Aotearoa People's Network Kaharoa provides internet access to the public through local libraries across New Zealand. This service supplies and maintains WiFi equipment at around 120 partner libraries. Users can access filtered internet through these locations. The network is funded by the New Zealand Government via the Community Partnership Fund and the National Library of New Zealand. This initiative was established in 2007 to help provide connectivity.

During the 2023 census, paper forms could be requested online or by telephone. The telephone number provided operators who spoke several different languages. These included English, te reo Māori, Samoan, Tongan, Korean, Mandarin, Cantonese, Hindi, and Punjabi. Additionally, New Zealand Sign Language was made available through NZ Relay. This ensured various communities could access necessary services.

There have been reports of the H7N6 subtype of avian influenza in New Zealand. The virus was first detected at the Hillgrove Egg Farm in Moeraki, which is operated by Mainland Poultry. This outbreak has led to the culling of a total of 160,000 chickens across several sheds. As a result, the Biosecurity Minister has ordered a halt to all New Zealand poultry exports. This suspension will remain in place until the country is free of the H7N6 subtype.

Yes, jellyfish are part of the diet for certain marine life in this region. Specifically, dusky dolphins rely on a dense assemblage of food sources found near the continental shelf. This food source includes crustaceans, salps, jellyfish, and small fish. These organisms often ascend close to the sea surface at night. Dusky dolphins feed along the coastline during the day and travel offshore at night to find them.

In the past, laundry was taught as part of manual training schools in New Zealand. These schools initially provided instruction for students in Standards 5 and 6. While boys focused on woodwork and metalwork, girls were taught cookery, laundry, and sewing. These manual training schools were established through various legislative acts in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Eventually, these functions were adopted into the curriculum of intermediate schools after the Second World War.

New Zealand markets itself to the world as a clean and green adventure-playground. This is reflected in the main marketing slogan used by Tourism New Zealand, which is 100% Pure New Zealand. The country offers various experiences for both domestic and international tourists. Visitors can explore the natural beauty that defines the nation's identity. This reputation helps drive significant tourism spending within the local economy.

The Greens have announced a plan to introduce universal payments for several professional roles. This initiative includes trainee nurses, dentists, and veterinarians. The goal of these payments is to encourage individuals to complete their studies. This proposal is part of their broader political platform. It aims to support various essential workers across the country.

New regulations have come into force regarding vaping devices in New Zealand. These rules require vaping devices to have child safety devices. Additionally, regulations now require these devices to have removable batteries. Due to these new vaping regulations, Philip Morris has withdrawn its IQOS heated tobacco products from the New Zealand market.

SkyCity Auckland casino recently announced that it will close for five consecutive days. This decision follows an admission by the casino that it breached the Gambling Act. The announcement was made on 18 July. This event highlights the legal oversight regarding gambling activities in the country.

When visiting New Zealand, it is important to be mindful of your behavior in nightlife areas. You should avoid rowdy bars or large groups of intoxicated people late at night, especially in city centres or certain suburban areas. New Zealanders may not appreciate jokes about their country or sports teams made by loud or inebriated visitors. Most violent incidents are relatively rare and are often linked to alcohol or drug use. Following these social considerations can help you navigate the local environment safely.

A case occurred where a group used a stock photo of a Māori woman to promote a specific political view. The woman pictured did not consent to her image being used and was distressed by the association. Although the photo was labelled for editorial use only, the group claimed they followed all legal requirements. Following the public reaction, the group eventually took down the billboards. This situation highlights the complexities surrounding the use of stock imagery in political campaigning.

Political parties in New Zealand utilize various social media platforms to reach different demographics. For instance, parties such as National, Labour, and the NZ Outdoors & Freedom Party use TikTok to attempt to connect with young voters. Instagram is also used for political messaging, as seen with many posts featuring the Greens co-leader. Facebook remains a significant platform where political parties and leaders maintain active pages. These digital spaces are central to modern election campaigns and political communication.

New Zealand television awards have undergone many changes and have been organized by various industry groups over the years. The first awards were the National TV Awards, which ran from 1964 to 1965. Later, the Feltex Awards honored television from 1970 to 1985 before being superseded by awards organized by the Guild of Film and Television Arts. As of 2025, the combined New Zealand Screen Awards recognize content created for theatrical release as well as programs produced for broadcast, streaming, and digital platforms.

Rugby union is a major passion in New Zealand, led by the mighty national team known as the All Blacks. The All Blacks have won the Rugby World Cup three times and maintain a formidable winning record against most teams. Women's rugby has also seen exponential growth in interest and participation, with the Black Ferns having won six World Cups. Beyond rugby, New Zealanders enjoy a wide variety of other spectator sports. Other popular team sports in the country include cricket and rugby league.

Christchurch United is a professional football club based in Christchurch, New Zealand. The club was formed in the early 1970s through the merger of several local sides to compete in the New Zealand National Soccer League. It was a founding member of the national league and was the only South Island applicant for the inaugural competition. Throughout its history, the club has achieved significant success by winning six National League titles. They have also secured seven Chatham Cup trophies.

The New Zealand national rugby union team is known as the All Blacks. Air New Zealand is a major sponsor of New Zealand rugby, which includes this national team. The airline began using black as its corporate colour ahead of a sponsorship campaign with the All Blacks in 2011. This colour was chosen because it resonates with people as the colour of New Zealand. The airline's identity is also linked to the national team through its use of black in its branding.

The provided information mentions Western Sydney Stadium in Sydney in relation to a past match against New Zealand. There are no specific stadiums listed as being located within New Zealand in the text. The notes focus on match results and player milestones rather than local venues. Therefore, the text does not provide a list of stadiums located in New Zealand.

Battles have taken place in towns and cities all around New Zealand. These conflicts occur at various public events such as University Orientation weeks and capping events. They also happen at folk festivals, local carnivals, and wine and food festivals. Other locations include snow festivals, swimming-pool openings, school gala days, and Summer City programs.

New Zealand has a history of encouraging mechanical inventions through a flair for experimentation. This spirit of innovation led to the creation of the jet boat and the John Britten motorcycle. These developments reflect the country's unique approach to mechanical design. Such inventions emerged alongside other local industrial advancements. This culture of experimentation remains a notable part of the nation's history.