Pasifika health overview

New Zealand has more 40 Pacific ethnic groups – each with its own culture, language and history. Some common health issues include high rates of diabetes, gout, heart disease, youth mental health issues, skin infections and obesity.

The Pasifika population in Aotearoa New Zealand

The 2013 Census recorded 295,941 Pacific people (7.4% of the total New Zealand population), up by 11.3% from the 2006 Census population of 265,974.

Pasifika people are younger, with over a third (35.7%) of Pacific peoples aged under 15 years, compared with only a fifth (20.4%) of the total population.
The median age for Pacific peoples in 2013 was 22.1 years, compared with 38.0 years for the total population.
Pasifika people have high rates of dying early from long-term health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, kidney failure, stroke and lung disease. Many of these are obesity related.
Auckland has the highest population with nearly two thirds (65.9%) of Pasifika people in New Zealand living in the Auckland region.
This was followed by Wellington (12.2%), Waikato (5.0%), Canterbury (4.3%), Bay of Plenty (2.6%), Manawatu-Whanganui (2.5%) and then Hawke’s Bay (2.1%).

Pasifika health topics and related sections:

Bula Sautu: A window on quality 2021: Pacific health in the year of COVID-19

Bula Sautu uses national data to show the complex contributing factors that impact on health for Pacific peoples, from maternity to end of life, using a life-course approach. The report brings together a diverse range of Pacific health and equity experts to share their views of how effectively (or ineffectively) the health system is performing for Pacific peoples.

Bula Sautu shows some of the worst inequities in the health care system but also profiles providers, communities and individuals responding creatively, brilliantly and vibrantly within the constraints imposed upon them.

The report proposes changes to be made by the New Zealand health system in 4 key areas, and some early steps for this change. It also outlines a 7-step framework for health sector organisations and services to address Pacific health.

Bula Sautu is the product of a partnership and co-development process between Corina Grey, Debbie Ryan and Api Talemaitoga for Pacific Perspectives and the Health Quality & Safety Commission.

Bula Sautu – a window on quality 2021 – Pacific health in the year of COVID-19 Health Quality and Safety Commission, NZ, 2021
Improving health outcomes: Pacific consumer group’s talanoa on Bula Sautu Health Quality and Safety Commission, NZ, 2021

Ola Manuia: Pacific Health and Wellbeing Action Plan 2020–2025

Although many Pacific communities are thriving, overall, Pacific peoples in New Zealand experience significant and long-standing health inequities compared with many other groups.

Ola Manuia: Pacific Health and Wellbeing Action Plan 2020–2025 was developed with input from Pacific communities, the health sector and relevant government agencies, to provide a new direction for Pacific health and improve Pacific health and wellbeing.

The plan sets out the priority outcomes and accompanying actions for the next five years to improve the health and wellbeing of the vibrant and growing Pacific population living in Aotearoa New Zealand. The plan can be used as a tool for planning, prioritising actions and developing new and innovative methods of delivering results to improve Pacific health.

Ala mo‘ui: Pathways to Pacific health and wellbeing 2014–2018

Ala mo‘ui: Pathways to Pacific health and wellbeing 2014–2018 is a national strategic document that sets out the priority outcomes and actions for the next 5 years that will contribute to achieving better health outcomes for Pacific people, families and communities.

This strategy is for the entire health and disability sector. The Ministry of Health works closely with district health boards, primary health organisations, Pacific and non-Pacific health and disability providers, and other relevant agencies to support its implementation and adoption. Read more about the Ala mo‘ui framework on the Ministry of Health website.