Media Statement

16 October 2009

Is there poverty in New Zealand?
… It’s time for an agreed poverty measure

“It’s time New Zealand had an official poverty measure. Many of us believe child poverty is a major social problem in our country while others deny its existence. There is only one way that argument can be resolved,” says Murray Edridge, Every Child Counts* Chairperson.

‘If we had an agreed poverty measure like many other developed countries, then we could start to address the much more serious issue of the detrimental impacts on children. An agreed measure would also provide some parameters for the Government to use in a commitment to setting targets for the eradication of child poverty. Other countries including the UK have such targets.

“Latest estimates show that at least 160,000 children live in poverty and hardship, the majority of whom are Pacific Islanders or Māori. For many of these children this means missing out on adequate nutrition, recurrent health problems, overcrowded housing, having restricted recreational opportunities, and increased risk of child abuse and living in homes with high stress levels.

“Despite all of the evidence, there is still debate about the extent of child poverty in New Zealand and there is inadequate commitment to addressing it. We need government to adopt a measure for poverty, such as 60 percent of median income after housing costs, so there is greater clarity around the issue and the solutions to it.

“The nation’s failure to accept and understand that so many young children are living in poverty is creating a time-bomb for the future. World Poverty Day on 17 October provides us with the opportunity to look at what’s happening in our own backyard, measure it, and then do something about it. Every Child Counts will continue advocating for an appropriate political and public response to poverty,” concluded Mr Edridge.

ENDS

* Every Child Counts is a coalition formed by Barnardos, Plunket, UNICEF, Save the Children and Te Kahui Mana Ririki. We work in a variety of ways to educate people-from corporate citizens to politicians and the general public- about the political and community actions that will better support children and their families. We believe it's time to address the priority issues that affect children, so that all New Zealanders can thrive. www.everychildcounts.org.nz

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