Findings from the 2018/19 and 2019/20 New Zealand Health Survey
The Dietary Habits Questionnaire (DHQ) was completed for children aged 2–14 years by the primary caregiver living in the same household as the child as part of the New Zealand Health Survey in years 2018/19 and 2019/20, where each survey year began on 1 July.
By analysing the dietary habits questionnaire (DHQ) responses, we can learn more about selected eating habits among children in different demographic groups. The findings highlight areas to focus on in future surveys and indicate the range of healthy eating challenges facing New Zealand children and young people.
The findings in this report indicate that some children and young people eat a varied, mixed diet as recommended in the New Zealand Food and Nutrition Guidelines for Children and Young People (Aged 2–18 years) (the Guidelines) (Ministry of Health 2012). However, the reported intake for a significant number of children and young people does not follow the recommended healthy dietary pattern and may contribute to the development of non-communicable diseases. For example, less than half of all children met the combined daily fruit and vegetable recommendation.