Survey on what makes New Zealand teens tick

The University of Auckland is launching research on teenagers this month, that could offer insights into what shapes their well-being.

The 6,000 survey participants are part of Growing Up in New Zealand (GUiNZ), the country’s largest longitudinal study, which has been tracking their lives since birth.

The 15-Year Check-In is the first time researchers have connected with the cohort in their teenage years, providing a vital snapshot of adolescence in Aotearoa.

GUiNZ Research Director Associate Professor Sarah-Jane Paine from Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland says the study will capture teenagers’ experiences, perspectives, and aspirations, offering valuable insights into what supports a healthy and meaningful life for young people.

“Adolescence is a crucial stage of development, shaped by everything from sleep patterns and screen time to friendships, school life, cultural identity, and community connections,” says Paine.

“This is also a time when external pressures like the rising cost of living and stress on families can impact young people’s well-being. Understanding these influences is key to ensuring the right support is in place.”

The 15-Year Check-In builds on previous GUiNZ research, which has tracked the cohort’s early childhood experiences, schooling, and challenging experiences, such as the Covid-19 pandemic and extreme weather events, like the Auckland Anniversay Day floods and Cyclone Gabrielle.

Paine says one of the study’s unique strengths is its ability to measure how well-being changes over time.

“Well-being isn’t just one moment in time, it’s shaped by a complex mix of peer relationships, school experiences, and mental and physical health. Because we’ve followed these families for nearly 16 years, we can track these interactions and identify what makes a real difference.

“This kind of data is invaluable for policymakers, educators, and those designing programmes that support young people to thrive.”

She says the study’s ethnically, geographically, and economically diverse cohort makes it a powerful tool for understanding the experiences of New Zealand’s teens.

“New Zealand is evolving, and it’s essential that decision-makers have accurate, representative data on the experiences of young people from all  backgrounds,” says Paine.

Families who have been part of Growing Up in New Zealand are encouraged to participate to ensure their voices help shape policies that support future generations. Findings from the survey will be released in early 2026.

Growing Up In New Zealand is a University of Auckland study funded by the government and administered by the Ministry of Social Development.