Sport New Zealand's Young People's Survey

 

To answer these and other key questions Sport New Zealand surveyed over 17,000 students in primary, intermediate and secondary schools.

 

This is the most significant piece of research into young New Zealanders’ participation in sport and recreation in more than 10 years. The scale of the survey allows us, for the first time, to explore how sport and recreation fit into the lives of boys and girls of different ages and backgrounds.

 

Initial results are now available. Find out more here. 

In 2011, Sport NZ invited selected primary, intermediate and secondary schools across New Zealand to take part in the Young People's Survey.

Schools from all across the country were invited so we have information from a nationally representative cross-section of boys, girls and young people of all ages.

The approach

Over 500 schools took part in the survey. Over 8 out of 10 schools we asked to take part did so. The survey took part in schools, as this is the best way to contact a large number of young people.

At each school, one or more classes were chosen at random and the students in those classes were asked if they would to take part in the survey. Parents/caregivers of Years 1 and 2 students were asked to complete the survey form on behalf of their children. The survey was voluntary and all answers were anonymous.

Almost 7 out of 10 students/parents selected for the survey took part. Combining this figure with the school response rate, gives an overall response rate of just over 60%.

Survey forms and methods suitable for different age groups were used.

Students in Years 3 to 13 completed the forms themselves. Parents/caregivers of students in Years 1 and 2 completed the forms on behalf of their children.

Information collected

The survey collected information about sport and recreation in its broadest sense, from casual games and activities (described as “mucking around”) to organised competitions. It also collected information about involvement in events and outdoor recreation activities provided by schools.

Other topics included participation in sport and recreation activities organised by schools, clubs, and groups like Scouts and Guides, as well as how much time young people spent doing these types of activities.

Questions also asked young people what activities they'd like to try or do more of and whether they belong to school sports teams, clubs, get coaching or get involved as volunteers.